De'Andre Kelly knew, before he left the UT-Martin campus, that he had found the place he wants to continue his athletic and academic career. South Pittsburg's two-time all-state running back committed to the Skyhawks while on an official visit there over the weekend.
"I like the staff and the campus and just everything about it felt like a good fit for me," Kelly said. "It's a relief to know where I'll be playing now and I'm thankful for the opportunity they're giving me."
Kelly ran for 1,498 yards - averaging 9.3 yards per carry - and 20 touchdowns last season to become a Mr. Football finalist. He was also named the Class 1A BlueCross Bowl MVP after rushing for 177 yards and two scores to lead the Pirates to a 24-21 state championship game victory.
"I couldn't be more happy for him," said Pirates co-head coach and offensive coordinator Wes Stone. "He's had a goal since junior high to play Division I college football and now he will get that chance."
Staff Photo by Robin Rudd / Game MVP Deandre Kelly (2) follows his blocking to score the Pirates's first touchdown. The South Pittsburg Pirates defeated the McKenize Rebels to win the TSSAA Division 1 Class A football championship in the BlueCross Bowl, at Finley Stadium, on December 3, 2021.
Girls' results
> Silverdale Baptist 45, Grace Academy 34: Kennedy Stinson hit four of her team's eight 3-pointers while five different Silverdale players scored at least seven points.
> Notre Dame 53, Chattanooga Christian 40: The Lady Fighting Irish improved to 16-7 overall and senior point guard Kenzie Campbell announced her commitment to Milligan University after the home win.
Boys' results
> Silverdale Baptist 67, Grace Academy 52: Freshman 6-foot-6 center Kennedy Okpara scored eight of his 17 points in the opening quarter while sophomore teammate Brett Wright made five 3-pointers and scored 21 in the Seahawks' victory.
> Notre Dame 62, Chattanooga Christian 14: Jonathan Adams' team improved to 16-6 overall with a strong defensive effort. It was the fifth time this year Notre Dame has held an opponent to fewer than 34 points.
Contact Stephen Hargis at shargis@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6293. Follow him on Twitter @StephenHargis