Barboza Gets Full Ride

February 22nd, 2010
New England Recruiting Report

Marianapoils post-grad headed to the NE-10 to play his college basketball.

After acquiring a steady dose of division II interest, Matt Barboza has made his decision and will head to Franklin Pierce University next year on a full athletic scholarship. 

Franklin Pierce had been active in Barboza’s recruitment since last summer when the skilled swingman had a breakout summer with the Bay State Magic AAU program. 

Barboza spent the previous years at Bishop Hendricken High School in Rhode Island where he helped the team to a state championship in each of his seasons in a Hendricken uniform. 

Following the summer Barboza enrolled as a post-graduate in Marianapolis Prep where he has emerged as one of the cornerstone’s of the team and a bit of a jack of all trades. 

“He started the season playing the point guard position for us,” said Marianapolis head coach Dave Vitale.  “Since the Christmas break he’s basically been playing all five positions.”

Marianapolis currently sits at 19-6 on the season and is once again one of the top programs in class B of the NEPSAC.  Barboza has averaged 13 points, 6 assists, and 6 rebounds. 

“He’s been great, been great,” said Vitale.  “He’s probably the guy that brings the most energy and leadership to the team on a consistent basis.  Even when it goes sour, he’s the hardest working guy we have on our team.” 

Barboza visited Franklin Pierce unofficially last Sunday and committed on Tuesday.  The next day Franklin Pierce head coach David Chadbourne and one of his assistants were on hand as Marianapolis squared off against Winchendon. 

“I think they got a good player,” said Vitale.  “He shoots it well, mechanically he is sound, he handles it well and if his body catches up with him I think he could be pretty good in that league.”