Gwinnett Daily Post

Norcross basketball player Brandon Goodwin made his birthday a memorable one on Tuesday. Goodwin committed to Southern Mississippi's basketball program after taking an official visit to Hattiesburg, Miss., over the weekend.

"I chose Southern Mississippi because I felt at home as soon as I stepped on campus," Goodwin said. "I love the players and the coaching staff. After a lot of thought I came to the conclusion that this was the right decision for me and I really look forward to being a Golden Eagle."

Goodwin tweeted his decision and posted a photo of him in a Southern Miss shirt and hat with his mother Swan Goodwin.

"We wanted Brandon to make a conscious effort in his decision and I thought it would be a wonderful gift on his birthday to make his commitment to college," his mother said. "I'm extremely proud that my son has become such a mature young man. I wish him nothing but the best with his future."

The 6-foot, 165-pound point/shooting guard averaged 15.2 points last season for the Blue Devils. Goodwin led the team in assists and was second in rebounding. He was an all-region, all-county and all-state selection.

Goodwin chose the Golden Eagles over nearly a dozen offers, including Western Kentucky, Gardner-Webb, and Appalachian State.

"Brandon is one of the most competitive players to ever play at Norcross and one that had an integral role in our success last season," Norcross head coach Jesse McMillian said. "His relentless play on both ends of the floor allows him to be very successful and I think he has the opportunity to be an immediate contributor at Southern Miss and in Conference USA."