Titans' Mesadieu signs with North Greenville

John Mesadieu first discovered his potential on the basketball court as a freshman and sophomore at Naples High. He then transferred to Golden Gate to see how far that potential could take him.

Both Mesadieu and Golden Gate’s basketball program became richer for it over the school’s first two years of existence.

The Titans compiled a 22-6 record last season, making it all the way to the Region 4A District 3 semifinal.

In turn, the 6-foot-6 Mesadieu earned a scholarship to Division II North Greenville University in Tigerville, S.C., after averaging 13.5 points and seven rebounds per game as a senior.

Mesadieu officially signed his letter-of-intent with North Greenville on Thursday afternoon, with the reality of his accomplishment setting in.

“I was thinking this is the best thing for me and I was happy,” he said. “I’m glad it happened.”

While other D-II schools showed interest, Mesadieu said North Greenville gives him the best opportunity to succeed.

Chad Lister, who just completed his fourth year as head coach at North Greenville, said Mesadieu’s post defensive presence and court vision will make him a solid contributor to the team.

Lister said the signing of Mesadieu was a top priority for a class which also includes four other incoming freshmen.

“This is by far the best class that we’ve had,” he said. “John is really the icing on the cake with this group.”

In addition to being named all-conference and a senior all-star, Mesadieu received the Coaches Award and Most Improved Player for the Titans this past season.

But basketball skills aside, Golden Gate coach Joe Consolino said Mesadieu is also a quality young man.

“That’s why when something like this happens ... you’re really happy and you know he’s going to be successful in whatever he does,” Consolino said.

Mesadieu may be moving on to the next level, but he will always remain grateful for what the Golden Gate coaching staff taught him to do.

Or not do.

“When I got to Golden Gate, I wasn’t scared anymore,” he said. “I was able to just play and it really helped me get better as a player.”