Nov. 9, 2016 DAVIS, Calif. - Gio Nelson, a 6-foot-5 wing who led Centennial High School (Corona) to league titles and deep playoff runs in consecutive seasons, is the first player to sign a National Letter of Intent during the fall window, as announced by head coach Jim Les on Wednesday.
"When I visited UC Davis, I was blown away by the program's culture, atmosphere and support from the community. I am certain the coaching staff will help me reach my full potential," said Nelson.
"Gio is a wing with size who can shoot the ball very well, get to the basket and finish. He plays extremely hard and has a huge upside because of his work ethic," said Les.
During his sophomore season, Nelson helped the Huskies finish Big VIII Conference play with an undefeated record, which led to a berth in the 2015 CIF Southern Section playoffs against soon-to-be teammate Rogers Printup's Orange Lutheran squad.
Centennial, a team ranked No. 17 nationally and No. 4 in the state by MaxPreps, also won three straight CIF State playoff games by 20 or more points, and advanced to the semifinal round.
Last year, Nelson averaged 10 points, five rebounds, two assists, shot 52 pct. from three and led his team to another league title. The Huskies also enjoyed similar postseason success in the sectional and state playoffs.
With the Corona native on its roster, CHS is 48-15 overall (.762) and 19-1 in league play (.950) the last two seasons.
"Becoming a student-athlete at UC Davis is a lifelong dream," Nelson added. "I am looking forward to being challenged on the court and in the classroom."