The need was clear for the Terps and so was the desire for Sterling Ledbetter to play close to home.
Ledbetter, a 6-4, 195-pound sophomore point guard at Allegheny Community College and former Laurel High (Md.) standout, signed a letter-of-intent with Maryland on Wednesday and will likely be inserted into the role of John Gilchrist's backup next season.
``He's a combination guard that gives us depth in our backcourt and will certainly be a vaulable addition to our team," Terps coach Gary Williams said.
Ledbetter, a good defender and ballhandler, played about 10 miles from College Park at Laurel High. He averaged 8.8 points and 8.3 assists in his first year at Allegheny and imcreased his production to 13.9 points, 7.1 assists and 6.1 boards per game this season.
“We’ve had great point guards come through here, he’s the closest thing to Steve Francis we’ve had,” Allegheny coach Bob Kirk, who has sent 92 kids to the Division 1 ranks, said of his current floor leader. “Sterling can play, he’s a high major, ACC-caliber guard with great size. ... similar size to John Gilchrest.”
Allegheny has also sent Francis, Ryan Randle and Jamar Smith to Maryland.