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By Ron P. Coderre
The prep school basketball season is just beginning for 2014 and one of Putnam Science Academy’s post graduate players has accepted a scholarship offer to play on the Division I level next season.
Daniel Upchurch, a 6-foot, 2-inch guard from Bridgeport who played for Notre Dame-Fairfield last season, has made a verbal commitment to play at Charleston Southern University of the Big South Conference. The Bucs were the first Division I school to offer Upchurch a scholarship earlier this fall. They landed a verbal commitment from the hard working scrappy guard on Nov. 11 following his official visit to the campus over the previous weekend.
“I’m very excited for Dan because he’s a hard worker who has overcome some personal family difficulties. If there is anyone who deserves an opportunity like this it’s Dan. I’m very proud and pleased for him and his family,” said Putnam Science Academy basketball coach Tom Espinosa.
An honor roll student in the class room, he’s also improved his credentials on the hardwood by becoming a solid defender. In recent years, Upchurch has also made consistent strides in his offensive game, not only becoming a more consistent shooter from the perimeter but also advancing his understanding of how to take advantage of the pick and roll.
“Although our season is just getting underway, Dan’s work ethic has impressed the Charleston Southern coaching staff. The improvements in his game have paved the way to Division I where he’ll be a solid two-way player and leader,” said Espinosa.
In his junior year at Notre Dame Fairfield Upchurch scored his 1000th point and helped lead his team to the highly competitive South West Conference championship. In high school he was a perennial All State and All Conference selection.
Prior to enrolling at Putnam Science Academy, Upchurch had been highly recruited by a number of Division II schools.