Jordan Belton, the Balers basketball team’s leading scorer last year and first-team All-Tri-County Athletic League selection, will play college basketball next year at California Maritime Academy after signing a letter of intent with the school last week.
Belton led the Balers with more than 15 points per game, lifting the Balers to a second-place finish in the TCAL and a berth in the Central Coast Section semifinals.
Belton chose to go to California Maritime Academy, a member of the California State University system, after being given an opportunity to contribute immediately, he said.
“I came in and the coach sold me on the school,” Belton said. “He told me what they are trying to accomplish. That’s what is important to me.”
The Maritime basketball team, a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, finished last year 21-10 and made their first ever tournament appearance, according to the school’s website.
Beyond the quality of the team and school — Belton plans to study business — location played a big part in his selection process, he said.
“Location was definitely important to me,” Belton said. “It’s in Vallejo and it’s close to San Francisco and here. It’s a good place.”
In Vallejo, Belton plans to play hard to get the most playing time, he said.
“Working hard brings success – not just talent,” Belton said. “As a team, you have to work hard together.”
