Chamberlain's Bell commits to Eastern Kentucky

Chamberlain senior defensive back Justin Bell ended his long courtship with his signature smile Wednesday:

Bell signed with Eastern Kentucky.

The 5-foot-10, 170-pound senior was one of the bay area's top playmakers last season, blocking eight kicks while providing blanket coverage on some of the area's best wide receivers. Bell led the Chiefs to the 5A region finals against Kissimmee Osceola, and his coaches feel he could be one of the hidden gems of the 2008 recruiting class.

Bell received interest from many Division I programs, including Cincinnati and Vanderbilt. Eastern Kentucky impressed him on his home visit, showing the studious senior the school's balance of academics and athletics.

When Colorado State came in late, Bell took a trip and said the Rams' facilities "blew (EKU's) away." He loved how straightforward and honest new Rams coach Steven Fairchild was, and enjoyed the Rocky Mountains. After the trip, he told the Times, if CSU would offer, "I'd probably commit."

But he kept his choice quiet until Wednesday's signing ceremony at the school's principal's office. Alongside him was his teammate and friend, senior defensive back Deven Persaud, who signed with Elon.

Offensive lineman Zachary Ford signed with Tusculum College in Greenville, Tenn.

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com

Times photo of Chamberlain senior Justin Bell.