6-foot-3 center commits to 49ers' women

The Charlotte 49ers' women's basketball team received a commitment Friday from one of the top high school seniors in North Carolina.

Amanda Dowe, a 6-foot-3 center from South Columbus High in Tabor City, said Friday she has committed to play for the 49ers next season. Dowe made an official visit to the Charlotte campus last weekend and chose the 49ers over the College of Charleston.

Dowe averaged 16.4 points, 15.2 rebounds and 5.5 blocks last season for South Columbus, which advanced to the first round of the N.C. 2A playoffs. She was named to last season's "Toast of the Coast" girls basketball team by the Myrtle Beach (S.C.) Sun-News.

"I really liked the campus," Dowe said. "I picked out the pros and cons of each school and took my time to make the right decision. I really like coach (Karen) Aston and like the up-tempo style they play."

Dowe said she will sign a national letter of intent during next month's early signing period.