This past week the solid preparation effort paid off for the 6'5 senior by signing a scholarship to join the Tennessee Wesleyan College program this fall.

"Playing college basketball has been a dream and I guess going to Tennessee Wesleyan College has always been in the back of my mind," said Harper. "I've had several family members (including his aunt Holly, mother Kay and uncle Ray Marshall) and friends play there. It's a place where I can feel comfortable - can still be around my family and friends."

Harper's statistics as he helped the Chargers post a 22-9 record this season were team highs in several categories among the regulars including: 511 points (16.5 avg.); 271 rebounds (8.7 avg.); 50 blocked shots; 47 steals; two-point field goal pct. (58); 3-point field goal pct. (39) and free throw pct. (76).

In addition to numerous team, district and region individual awards over his four year career, the Chargers recorded a 98-30 record that included two District 5-AA tournament titles, a Region 4-AA tournament crown, two substate appearances and reaching the Final Four of the Class AA State Tournament in 2006.

Harper has one other high statistic on his impressive resume - a 3.8 grade point average.

"It's no secret to anyone who has watched us play that Matt has been a big part of any success we've had in the four years he's been here," said Central Coach Doug Armstrong. "Matt has never stopped working to make himself a better player and because of that work ethic, I don't think he's as good now as he will be each and every year he's at Wesleyan.

"You can't ask for someone with a better attitude on and off the court - a better person or more dedicated and intense competitor," he added. "He's one of those special players who makes the coaching profession a pleasure and I'm sure part of that - in no small measure - is the fact he comes from a great family that has supported his every step along the way."

Needless to say, Tennessee Wesleyan College men's Coach Mike Poe is pleased Harper chose the Bulldogs from among several options.

"Signing Matt has been a top priority with us for some time - we made him an offer this past summer," said Poe. "He's a really good 'get' for us in the recruiting process."

Along with his ability to fit into Wesleyan's up-tempo style of play, Poe said there were several "positives" that made Harper an attractive prospect.

"He is long and athletic with a variety of skills that make him a very versatile player," said Poe. "We think he can play any one of three positions and his high intelligence will make that transition quicker than usual. We look for him to come in and play immediately.

"He also comes from a very good program with a winning tradition and those players know what it takes - that's a rare commodity and something you can't teach," he added. "We think Matt will be an even better player with better players around him and we're excited about having him at Wesleyan for the next four years."

Harper, who is also a starting outfielder for the Central baseball team, is looking forward to playing at the next level, as well.

"Going to Central the past four years - playing basketball and baseball - has been a great experience and I've had a lot of fun," he said. "But I'm ready to take the next step and looking forward to the new challenge."