Ontaryo Nearor recently graduated from Red Level High School and then signed a letter of intent on Monday to continue his basketball career at Coastal Alabama-Brewton Community College.

“It feels really good,” Nearor said after signing his LOI. “I’m very happy that I get to continue playing basketball while pursuing my college education.”

Nearor’s high school coach, Allen Catrett, said he is proud of the Nearor has accomplished.

“Ontaryo is a guy that has been with me the past five years,” Catrett said. “He cut his teeth as freshman on the varsity team and he has improved each year. He really deserved this opportunity and couldn’t be more proud of him.”

Catrett said that Coastal Alabama-Brewton is getting more than just a ball player.

“This kid is just a great young man,” Catrett said. “I’ve enjoyed watching him mature as a player and person over the past five years. I think they are getting a kid that is going to work hard in the classroom and on the basketball court. He is a just kid and I know he is going to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Nearor said he is eager to see the doors that this opportunity will open.

“I’m most excited about the possibility of this opening other doors in my future,” Nearor said. “I’m excited to see what all I can do. I thought I was at my peak, but I’m not and I want to see where I can go.”

Nearor said that playing for Catrett at Red Level really helped his basketball career.

“I really have to thank Coach (Allen) Catrett for all that he has done for me,” Nearor said. “He really has helped me become a better basketball player.”

Nearor said the he plans to pursue a degree in secondary education, and hopes to become coach.