Q&A with Shamarr Bowden

Shamarr Bowden is looking to make an immediate impact and that goal is what largely determined his choice to commit to the Charlotte 49ers.

Bowden, a rising senior at The Miller Academy in Charlottesville, Va., on Wednesday announced his intentions to sign a letter of intent during the November signing period to play for Charlotte in 2008-09. Bowden averaged 20.7 points per game last season and is ranked a three-star recruit by Rivals.com.

I caught up with Bowden early Wednesday evening. Here's a quick Q&A with him.

Q: Can you talk about what led you to decide not to attend Virginia Tech?
Bowden: I had planned for some time to go to Tech, to join the team for the 2008 season. But in the last year it became clear they were going to be heavy with guards on the team. I was going to have to compete with four or five other guys for playing time. I don't mind that, but I would not likely have seen a lot of playing time the first couple of seasons. I decided it was probably best to open my choices back up.

Q: What other schools were you receiving interest from?
Bowden: I heard from many schools including UNC Wilmington, Winthrop, Elon -- those are the ones around here. I also spoke with Richmond, Vandy and a few others.

Q: What were your impressions of the coaching staff at Charlotte?
Bowden: I really like coach Lutz. He doesn't hold guys back. If they can play and make the shot, he lets them go. His teams go after it real hard. I really liked the way the staff kept in contact with me, showed me they really cared about me. I love the campus and love the big arena.

Q: How did attending the Miller Academy help you?
Bowden: I think it really turned my game around. I have really improved in my dribbling and my overall athletic ability. Going there was important for me. I was isolated away from all the distractions. It really prepares you for college. The teachers work with you whenever you need it and it also prepares you for life. We take part in community service projects around the area.