This year's

MVP of the McIntosh basketball team has made a decision

about which college he will attend this fall.

Stephen

Cox, the Chiefs' leader in rebounds, assists and minutes

played, is taking his game to Middle Georgia College, a

two-year school in Macon.

Cox began

playing basketball at the age of 8 when his sister taught

him the game. He began to play seriously at the age of 12

and has found himself excelling on several squads. He has

played AAU ball and has been at least practicing with the

varsity squad since his sophomore year. He won the

Coaches Award in his sophomore year and was named to the

county all star team the past two seasons.

Why did he

choose Middle Georgia? "I want to pursue basketball

at the highest level," Cox said. "If I play at

a two-year school I have a better chance of transferring

to a Division I school after I graduate."

Cox knows

the benefits of playing for a Division I school. He is

still close to a former teammate of his, Michael Patrick.

Patrick found his way onto the squad at the Univeristy of

Georgia this past year and blossomed. The two plan to

work out this summer, while not working.

Cox's work

ethic is impressive. He works hard in school, has

received the Eagle Scout Vigil Honor from Boy Scouts in

1996, and has played a number of other sports over the

years. He started as a post player for the Chiefs but has

also had time as a small forward and point guard. Cox

accepted his role as a team leader this past season,

leading by example and passing on his knowledge of the

game.

All of

these characteristics make Cox a catch for Middle Georgia

College. "We're real excited to have Stephen on the

team because he is a quality young man and an excellent

basketball player," said Coach Dale Hatcher.

"His size and his basketball skills will allow him

to fit in very well with our system at Middle

Georgia."

Middle

Georgia went 18-8 last season in their third consecutive

winning season. They are always in the hunt for a state

championship in the Ga. Junior College region.

"Stephen is a versatile player who runs and shoots

well. He can rebound, score inside and outside and will

get better over the next two years."

Cox is

undecided on a major but is interested in

telecommunications. He has had a great time in his senior

year and truly feels he has a better grasp at becoming a

better player and person.