by Aargh » April 6th, 2013, 7:42 pm
Grew up in a small town in rural Southern Georgia. Didn't get much attention out of HS, but got a schollie to a JuCo. Missed two years with a heart condition.
His Dad is in prison for life. Murder conviction after a drug conviction.
Medication for the heart condition worked. He went to Chipola and the Shox recruited him. VCU was the other main recruiter. When WSU signed him, there was immediate bad blood between Marshall and Smart. VCU fans swear WSU paid Hall $50K to sign with WSU.
Carl worked in a light bulb factory for two years when he was medically unable to play basketball. Carl got a waiver from the 5 years to play 4 rule because of his medical condition. I'm so glad that someone with his character from his background got a chance to complete his college education and play the game he loves so much.
He's the example of what can be achieved through hard work and being a good person to the youth in his hometown - and those kids desperately need a role model.
I've had the good fortune to meet Carl, talk with him a bit, and get to know him a bit. His character and person is every bit as outstanding as his basketball. Carl is a lot more than an outstanding basketball player. He's a kind, gentle, and compassionate person, but he's A BEAST on the basketball court.