Bryant signs with MSU

Brian Bryant was always thought to have top-level Division I talent. On Tuesday it was confirmed.

Bryant, who was a two-time Albany Herald Player of the Year in 2006 and 2007 while at Dougherty High School, signed to play at Mississippi State University.

Bryant will finish his two-year stint at Northwest Florida State College this season then will bolt for Starkville, Miss.

He officially signed on the dotted line Tuesday evening at the NWFC.

“I feel that it is a great fit for me because they are losing a senior starting guard, Barry Stewart,” Bryant said. “I loved the athletic and academic facilities and my goal was to play in the SEC.”

Northwest Florida is off to a 5-0 start to the season led by Bryant, who is averaging 20 points, 7.6 rebounds and 5.4 assists. He is shooting 41 percent from 3-point range.

“Brian has continued to improve each day,” Northwest Florida coach Bruce Stewart said. “He is the compelte pagkage of talent, athleticism, character and work ethic. He is a winner.”

Mississippi State has made six of the last eight NCAA tournaments and has won the SEC West four of the last six years.

While at Dougherty, Bryant averaged 29.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.6 steals and 3.6 assists during his senior season.