The next step in Tony Woods’ basketball career is starting his senior season for the Wolves in December.
But the next next step will be in 2008, when Woods will suit up for Wake Forest.
Woods made his college choice official on Wednesday, signing his letter of intent on the first day of the NCAA’s early signing period.
Now, having inked with the Demon Deacons for next season, Woods can focus on being a force for the Wolves this season.
“I’ve looked forward to this for a long time,” Woods said. “When I visited (Wake Forest), I really liked the atmosphere, and every guy that played there for four years under coach (Skip) Prosser earned their degree.
“It’s a chance to get a great education and play ACC basketball all in one.”
Woods said he didn’t waver on his commitment to the Demon Deacons even after Prosser died of a sudden heart attack in July.
“When he passed away, I was maybe a little skeptical of the situation, but I didn’t really doubt it,” Woods said. “I really liked (assistant coach Dino) Gaudio, and if anyone was going to get the job, I was hoping it would be him.”
Wake Forest did promote Gaudio, Prosser’s long-time assistant, to the head coaching position in August, and most of Wake’s top recruits — including Woods — decided to stick with their verbal commitments.
That leaves Woods free to concentrate on his senior year at Rome High, where he hopes to improve on last year’s averages of 15 points and 11 rebounds per game.
“This year, my main goals are to go pretty far into the state tournament and to help my team in any way I can,” Woods said. “And I want to try to put on some weight and muscle before going to college.”
Rome coach Keeth Jones said Woods’ combination of skill and size make him a potent player on the high school level and should also make him a successful player on the college level.
“His height (6-foot-11) is a big advantage, but he’s also so athletic,” Jones said. “Florida coach Billy Donovan said he liked how Tony could go up and down the floor and also get up off the floor.
“He’s a very athletic big man and he’s got good coordination. This is a great opportunity for Tony to get a great education and play basketball at a high level. Whatever he chooses to do, he’s got a chance to be set for life.”
While Woods possesses a calm and quiet demeanor, he has an obvious passion for basketball and an unmistakable confidence in what he can do.
“As far as my game, I’m pretty confident in it, but there is always room for improvement,” he said. “I’m sure my college coaches will find things for me to work on.
“I don’t really have any nerves,” he added of his upcoming college career. “Really, I’m more excited than anything.”
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