William Carey University Head Men’s Basketball Coach Steve Knight has announced the signing of Rod Little, a 6-2 guard who is transferring to WCU from West Texas A&M University, a NCAA D-II school in Canyon, TX.

Little previously was a two year starter at Pearl River Community College

Little was the third leading scorer on a team that finished the 2010-11 season at 23-7 and was nationally ranked in DII.

“We are pleased to have Rod join our team next year. He has a lot of experience playing for quality programs in DII and Jr. College and has played for excellent coaches throughout his basketball career. We believe he has a lot to offer our program, both on and off the court.” Knight said.

Little was a three-year starter for Coach Dale Brown at Moss Point High School and averaged 18 points and eight rebounds a game. He was named All-Division 7-4A and All-South State, while garnering All-Coast Team and All-Area Team honors by The Sun Herald and Mississippi Press newspapers, respectively.

He was a two year starter at Pearl River Community College under veteran Coach Richard Mathis and was named All-MAJC Honorable Mention his sophomore season. He also competed in the 2010 Mississippi JUCO All Star Game.

• Knight also has announced the signing of Sharod Smith, a 6-3 guard/forward from Meridian(MS)High School. Smith helped lead the Wildcats to the class 6A state championship this past season.

A versatile player, Sharod can play several positions and is considered to be an outstanding defender.

“I thought that William Carey was the best place for me because it offers better education,” said Smith of his decision. “I really trust coach (Steve) Knight and they’ve really got a good group of guys coming in. That is where I thought I could picture myself playing.

The Smith family are no strangers to Hattiesburg as both Mom (Diane Backstrom Smith) and Dad (Jimmy Smith) were outstanding players for the Southern Miss Golden Eagles. Sharod plans to major in Physical Therapy and sports a 3.75 gpa at Meridian. He averaged 10 ppg and received the 2011 Outstanding Minority Student Award at MHS.