Two Keenan High basketball players are taking their games to the next level.
Olivia Irick is bound for Coastal Carolina University, while and Santera Grooms will attend Spartanburg Methodist. The seniors recently signed their national letters of intent in a ceremony.
They will have the chance to showcase the talents that this season landed them all-state and region 4-2A co-player of the year honors and delivered Keenan its first 2A state title, a 54-50 win against Lee Central.
"I'm excited about playing on the collegiate level," Irick said.
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Irick said she has some key challenges in her sights: get plenty of playing time, break the starting lineup, vie for conference rookie of the year.
"I know it will be hard but I think I'll be able to do it," she said.
Keenan coach Reggie McLain said Irick was the team's "best shooter, hands down," and envisions her offensive prowess serving her well as a college shooting guard.
Grooms, too, is ready to be tested. The South Carolina Coaches Association Class 2A player of the year said honing her basketball skills and getting an education are two primary goals.
"You have to be on your game on and off the court," Grooms said. "I like a challenge."
McLain predicts both players are poised for success. Irick summed up both athletes' emotions at the end of the ceremony.
"If feels great," she said.
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