An experience to remember

When Ladarius Hinton moves on to a four-year university next year, he’ll take with him knowledge and experience which will likely give him an advantage over other college athletes.

Hinton, originally from Richburg, S.C., plays on the Rockingham Community College basketball team and has learned firsthand the benefits of playing at the junior college level.

“This basketball program has taught me a lot both on and off the court,” the 6-foot-3 guard said Monday. Hinton said he would recommend it to other athletes who may not be quite ready for the big time.

Head coach Dean Myrick said RCC’s basketball program began in 1998, but many people don’t know about it. Since its formation, the program has sent 45 players to four-year schools. Five have been named regional player of the year, five have been named All-Americans and four have gone overseas to play basketball professionally. Hinton said after he graduates from a four-year college, he plans to play overseas.

RCC is a Division II school and is part of Region 10, which includes all of North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.

Myrick said the Eagles won the regional championship in 2002 and was a runner-up in 2000, 2001, 2004 and 2009. The team travels a lot, Myrick said, giving the players a lot of exposure and the chance to bond with each other.

“We keep a tough schedule,” he said. Later this season, the Eagles will travel to Missouri.

Myrick wants to spread the message that the Eagles have a lot of talent. The team also benefits the local economy. It only has five players from North Carolina. Four are from South Carolina, three from Michigan and two from Iowa. Myrick said between rent, utilities and living expenses, the team puts about $400,000 back into the local economy.

Giving players a chance to grow academically and athletically helps four-year universities get a more well-rounded player and student, he said.

“Four-year schools get a much more mature student, plus basketball-wise, they’re not getting high school kids,” Myrick said.

Playing on the community college level gives the players a chance to learn about time management. Myrick said his team practices six days a week so the athletes have to learn how to balance basketball with school work and other obligations.

The Eagles tip off their season this weekend with a tournament at home featuring teams from North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland. Games are set for 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. The championship game will be played at 3 p.m.