Growing up in Frisco, TX, Matt Hampton knew he possessed the features to play big-time basketball--if he kept his head down and worked hard.
The sophomore point guard's belief in himself resulted in his commitment to Chattanooga earlier this week, and it's an opportunity Hampton's eager to attack.
"Chattanooga is a program with a winning culture and a great coach," Hampton said. "A lot of schools were interested in me, but Chattanooga stood out because of their tradition, and the city is nice as well."
Hampton's association with basketball started as a young kid, but he wasn't always the tallest player when initially picking up the sport. However, he grew to be 6'4, and what he first lacked in height, he more than compensated for with talent.
The point guard hit his growth spurt between his sophomore and junior years of high school, and he exploded during his final two years on the high school scene.
After graduation, Hampton spent a prep year at SEMO Prep, where his talents shone and caught the attention of the head coach at Three Rivers, Robert Kirby.
"Coach showed interest in me, and I felt that this would be an opportunity to improve my game before heading to the next level of collegiate basketball for myself, " Hampton said.
In his freshman year at Three Rivers, Hampton played a pivotal role in the team's success, as he averaged 15 points a game while grabbing six rebounds per contest. However, his level of play on the court rose exponentially in his sophomore year, as Hampton averaged 17 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per outing. As a result of his exploits, he was honored with an All-Region team selection while also being named the Region 16 player of the Year.
After a strong two years at Three Rivers, Hampton's offer list of Division 1 teams proved lengthy, and four schools were on his final four list. Those schools were Chattanooga, UTEP, Indiana State, and Milwaukee. However, Chattanooga distinguished itself from the rest during Hampton's recruitment, and he went with the Tennessee-based program.
Despite moving on to the next level, Hampton has nothing but positive things to say about his tenure in Poplar Bluff playing for the black, white, and gold of Three Rivers College.
"It was a great two years, I couldn't be more thankful for the two years here," Hampton said. "My teammates and I worked hard to succeed, and I appreciate the Division 1 offers that came my way, along with the awards."
Liaudwin Seaberry Jr. - Daily American Republic