WALTERBORO, S.C. – High-flying guard Jai'Viaun (Jai) Chisolm from Summerville, S.C., has signed a letter of intent to play at two-time NJCAA Region 10 champion USC Salkehatchie.
Chisolm, a 6-foot, 3-inch, 185-pound guard, played for Coach David Long at Summerville High School. Under Coach Long's leadership, Summerville went 24-6 and was one of the premier high school programs in the state. Chisolm averaged 15.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 2.7 steals.
"We signed a great basketball player and an even better person in Jai Chisolm. In my opinion, Jai is the best kept secret in the state of South Carolina. I am so excited that he chose USC Salk and that he believes in what we are building here," said Coach Lynch. "Jai comes from a players’ program at Summerville High School. I have the utmost respect for Coach Long and his staff and I know I am getting a player that has been well coached and is ready to make an immediate impact."
Coach Long, Assistant Coach Ben Snyder, and the rest of the Summerville coaching staff play one of the most exciting and unique brands of basketball in the Lowcountry and throughout the Palmetto State. Pressing from start to finish and executing a 5 in, 5 out substitution pattern, they apply relentless full-court pressure that would overwhelm their opponents by the final buzzer. Jai led "The 'Ville" program in turnover percentage, three-point shooting percentage, rebounds, assist-to-turnover ratio, and blocked shots.
“The growth in Jai’s game from his four years in the program has been nothing short of incredible," said Coach Long. "He started as a B-Team player before becoming a three-year varsity player, a two time All-Region selection, a North-South All-Star game participant and team captain. On a team loaded with talent, Jai was not only a highlight regular, he led the team in several of our key categories.”
Jai becomes the first South Carolina signee in the Lynch era at USC Salkehatchie. He plans to pursue a degree in business administration.