Santa Monica
June 30, 2020
Santa Monica College Men's Basketball 6-3 Sophomore PG Teddy Parham has signed a letter of intent to continue his academic and athletic career at NCAA Division II Chadron State College. Parham was a two-year starter for the Corsairs and had career-highs of 26 points, nine rebounds, 14 assists, six steals (twice), and two blocks (three times).
"I chose Chadron State because I saw opportunity," Parham said. "Yeah, it's a small community, but the way I like to see it is that I'll be a big fish in a small pond. The academics are great, the environment looks great, and the program will be a complete turnaround, and the idea of being on a team where the coaching staff really wants you is a welcoming feeling. I'm glad to have made a decision that I'm happy with and I can't wait to prove everyone that they should have never doubted me."
In his time at SMC, Parham scored in double figures 27 times, made two or more three-pointers in 25 games, and scored 20 or more points four times. Parham started in all 60 games that he participated in.
"While attending SMC, I have learned a lot on and off the court. The academics allowed me to excel and prepare for the real-world opportunities while the basketball program allowed me to grow and prosper into a well-rounded, determined player," said Parham, who graduated with an AA degree in Communication Studies. "I will never forget the amazing times I had with my friends and coaches while at SMC."
This season, Parham averaged 9.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.5 blocks. He had great success at SMC with winning over 20 games each season and making the Elite 8 and Sweet 16.
"We are so excited for Teddy. He received six offers during his time at SMC. I am glad he found the school and basketball program that fit him best," said Head Coach Joshua Thomas. "Teddy enhanced our program since he arrived here. His infectious passing and feel for the game became a staple on our team. Teddy is always two to three steps ahead of the opposition, and he was one of the top point guards in the state the past two years. I am glad he chose to bring his talents here at SMC. I know his wonderful parents are extremely proud of all of his accomplishments in basketball and academics at SMC."
During Parham's freshman season, Parham averaged 9.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.5 steals. Overall, in the past two years, Parham led the Corsairs in total points, assists, steals, three-pointers made, minutes played, and games played.
"Teddy is a high IQ guard that plays the game at a great pace. He has the ability to impact the game in multiple ways on both sides of the ball. His skill set of being able to dribble, pass, and shoot along with his defensive versatility will carry over well to the next level," explained Assistant Coach Justin Maidenberg. "I look forward to seeing his success as he continues his basketball and academic career."
The coaching staff at Chadron State College is not only getting a phenomenal basketball player, but they are getting a fantastic student and a great person. Parham was named to the CCCMBCA All-State Academic Team, which honors the men's basketball players in the state who maintained a 3.5 GPA or higher as a full-time student while competing as a student-athlete. Furthermore, Parham was named the Santa Monica College GAB Men's Basketball Athlete of the Year in 2018-2019, which recognizes student-athletes who excelled academically and athletically and rendered community service. Lastly, he made the Dean's Honor List every semester while at SMC.
"I would like to thank my family, friends, coaches, and girlfriend for supporting me in my decision, and I know they will support me day in and day out."