Gamecock Football: Basketball Star Bruce Ellington to Play Football in 2011

The Gamecock football team has received a welcomed addition to the program this summer in the shape of basketball star Bruce Ellington.  Ellington, a rising sophomore, was an SEC All-Freshman selection this past basketball season after the leading the Gamecocks with 12.8 PPG. 

After such great success on the hardwood, Ellington has decided to see if that success can translate to the gridiron.  At the quarterback position, Ellington lead the Berkeley Stags to a victory in the South Carolina AAAA state championship game, and was selected to represent the Sandlappers in the Shrine Bowl.

With such a strong athletic background, Ellington has already made an immediate impact in summer workouts.  His presence has given the Cocks another competitor to push the likes of Marcus Lattimore, Alshon Jefferey and Stephon Gilmore in workouts, conditioning drills and footraces.  Football players thrive on competition, and the members of the Gamecock squad have certainly welcomed his presence.

With Bryce Sherman's alleged departure from the program, Ellington could have the opportunity to make an impact not just in summer workouts, but on Saturdays as well.  His breakaway speed and point-guard quickness make him an ideal prospect to handle kick return duties for Carolina come September.

His natural athleticism will also allow him to compete for playing time at wide receiver, which he played for two years in high school before making the move to QB. 

Bruce Ellington will provide Steve Spurrier with yet another weapon for an already talent-laden roster in 2011.  Expect Ellington to fit right in and make a name for himself early with a Gamecock team that is looking more and more poised to take the SEC crown.