DENVER - University of Denver men's basketball head coach Rodney Billups announced the signing of Sam Hines Jr. on Thursday. The incoming freshman has signed his National Letter of Intent (NLI) to continue his academic and athletic career with the Pioneers.  

Hines Jr. is joining DU from Wheeler High School out of Marietta, Ga. The incoming freshman played with current Pioneer Roscoe Eastmond during his time there.

A 6-foot-6 forward, Hines Jr. brings a high motor and serious explosiveness to DU next season, with the ability to play above the rim, guard multiple positions and finish strong through contact at the rim.

"Extremely excited to get a student-athlete like Sam," Billups said. "He is extremely athletic and is very good at slashing at driving the ball to the basket, but also carries a defensive mindset. A great compliment to the players we already have, but he also brings an individuality with his creative nature." 

While at Wheeler High, he was a multi-sport athlete, starring in football and basketball. Hines Jr. was a two-time all-region selection in hoops and posted averages of 12.8 points and 7.8 rebounds per game as a junior. The Wheeler High standout was also named the Most Valuable Player at the Tournament of Champions.

Hines Jr. choose the University because he felt it the was best place he could develop his skills in basketball while pursuing a great education. 

He was also being recruited by Navy, Western Carolina, Cornell and Princeton. 

Denver returns to action at home on Saturday to take on Western Colorado. Tip is set for 1 p.m. in Hamilton Gymnasium.

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