Valparaiso Head Men's Basketball Coach Homer Drew today announced the signing of 6'5" Paul Guede of Grace Christian School in Sanford, North Carolina to a National Letter of Intent for the 2006-07 season.

Guede, pronounced GWEED, led the Crusaders to state championships each of the past two seasons, and a third place finish in the National Tournament in 2005. A native of England, Guede averaged 22.0 points, 11.1 rebounds and 5.6 assists his senior year, earning First Team All-State honors for the third consecutive season, and the most votes in the state for the second year in a row. A three-time First Team All-Conference selection, Guede's teams went 42-0 in the North Carolina Christian Schools Association during his three years.

?Paul is a perfect fit for Valpo," Drew said. ?He is a quality person, student and basketball player, and we are extremely excited to get him on campus and make him a part of the Valpo family. His athleticism and skill will be great assets for our program."

In his three years, the Crusaders amassed an 84-19 record, including a 31-7 mark in 2005, the second best in school history. Guede participated in multiple camps and tournaments during his prep career, including time at the prestigious Five Star Camp.

Also an accomplished soccer player, Guede was named to three straight All-State Teams for his performance on the pitch.

?In Paul, Valpo is getting an extremely athletic and unselfish player," Tim Murr, Head Basketball Coach at Grace Christian School said. ?He is going to get along perfectly with Coach Drew because they are both quality people."

Guede joins 7'1" Calum MacLeod (Wellington, New Zealand/Hutt Valley) and Iowa prep star Keaton Frye (Eldridge, Iowa/North Scott) in the incoming class of 2006-07.