Lasalle senior boys' basketball point guard Andrew Lalonde will suit up for the Laurentian University Voyageurs this fall.
Lalonde, 18, is one of the top high school point guards in Ontario.
The Grade 12 student received offers from NCAA schools as well as top rated Canadian university programs but decided to stay home and help build the Voyageurs into a contender in the OUA.
Laurentian men's team head coach Shawn Swords, whom the institution hired last summer to take over and construct a winning program, was the main reason for Lalonde to brush off out-of-town suitors.
"I want to play for Shawn," Lalonde said. "He's a really good coach and I like what he brings to the table. Shawn's similar to me...and I am definitely looking forward to it."
Despite the current woes of the Voyageurs (record of 3-14 and fighting for their playoff lives) Lalonde is prepared to do whatever it takes to help turn the ship around.
"I bring a winning mentality and a positive attitude," Lalonde said. "I move the ball around and get my teammates involved. I also bring hard work. I want to help turn things around."
Lalonde is in his final high school season with Lasalle. The Lancers are 10-0 and sit in first place in the Division I standings. Lalonde is the leading scorer in the loop with 188 points in 10 games.
"This season, the biggest difference is his maturity," said Lasalle head coach Mitch Lalonde. "He has more leadership qualities and understanding the game better. As a player, skill wise, he's one of the top point guards in Ontario. When we go to tournaments...other teams have defences geared towards shutting him down."
Lalonde is excited to play post secondary basketball in front of hometown fans at Laurentian, which have been regarded as some of the best supporters in the OUA.
"It's a big positive to play at home," he said.
Lalonde and Lasalle continue their season on Monday, Feb. 4 when they host Lockerby at 8 pm.
