When your older brother is a star on one of the country's best college teams, it can be a bit daunting to try to follow in his footsteps. But that hasn't stopped Rashanda McCants from signing a letter of intent to attend the University of North Carolina, where her brother Rashad is one of the nation's best players.

The Asheville (N.C.) High School senior has compiled a stellar hoops record to date, leading her team to its second consecutive Class 3A state championship last season. As a junior, the 6-3 forward averaged 23 points, 11.2 rebounds, four steals per game, and was named Class 3A Miss Basketball and first-team all state, and region MVP.

"Rashanda is so versatile," Asheville H.S. Head Coach Sonita Gibbs told the Citizen-Times after last season. "You can run her at the 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5."

Last summer, McCants was invited to participate in the USA Basketball Youth Development Festival in Colorado. While she was there, she mentioned why she chose to attend UNC. "It was like a homey thing," she told USABasketball.com. "When I went there, I felt like I was at home. Plus the academics is a big part, they have what I want to study. It was the whole atmosphere. It's like a home away from home."

The honor-roll student also mentioned that she hoped to study business, advertising and marketing. "I want to help promote the WNBA, stuff like that," she said.

After giving a verbal commitment to UNC during her junior year, McCants signed a letter of intent in November, 2004. She'll part of a strong class that also includes Heather Claytor, Christina DeWitt, and Iman McFarland.

"I'm so excited to welcome these four players into our program," UNC Head Coach Sylvia Hatchell said. "They'll be outstanding additions to our team, on an off the court. They're all very talented, they're strong students and they fit in really well with our players. We can't wait to have them join our team."

Article written by Gball Associate Editor Jim Catalano.

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