University of Alaska Fairbanks Athletics

Head coach Clemon Johnson and the Alaska Nanooks men’s basketball team announced Tuesday that Kimani Shotwell, a 6’5” freshman from Memphis, Tenn., has signed a national letter of intent for the 2010-11 season.

"Kimani has overcome many obstacles that would have consumed or detoured most student-athletes to become a member of the Nanook Men's Basketball team," Johnson said. "If coaches, especially this one, could find more Kimani(s) my recruiting would be much easier and more enjoyable."

Shotwell played small forward for both Memphis University School and Memphis Central High before signing. He was named all-conference in 2008 and named a Memphis Senior All-Star.

Shotwell averaged 13.3 points, 11.4 rebounds, 6.2 assists and 4.2 blocks per game and was named team captain as a senior.

His biggest game came in 2007, where he posted 32 points, 14 rebounds, five assists and five blocks against Craigmont High School.

In 2008, Shotwell led Memphis Central to district championships with a 14-2 record. They also qualified for the Memphis City Championships.

A multi-sport athlete, Shotwell also excelled at throwing discus. In 2007, he was named all-metro, all-state and Best Male Thrower by the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association. He placed third at state championships.

In Alaska, he'll assist at the combo forward position, spending time as both a small and power forward.

"I look forward to coaching Kimani," Johnson said. "Kimani will bring leadership and workmanship with the desire to win. He and I communicate weekly about how to improve all aspects of next year's team."