NIC's Webb signs to play men's basketball at Boise St.

North Idaho College freshman James Webb signed a letter of intent to play men's basketball at Boise State starting in the 2013-14 season.

"They were recruiting him out of high school before he came here," NIC coach Jared Phay said of Webb. "He transferred to a prep school his senior year and had to wait to see if he was an academic qualifier and once he got here, he found out he was."

Webb, a 6-foot-9 wing from Augusta, Ga., is averaging 11 points, five rebounds and one blocked shot for the Cardinals (6-1). Webb is shooting 54 percent from the field and 78 percent from the free-throw line.

"James is an extremely long and athletic wing, who has the ability to score from the perimeter and off the dribble," Boise State coach and former Gonzaga assistant Leon Rice said. "He is a good rebounder and good defender, and with his size and athleticism, he will be a great addition to the team."

He will have three years to play at Boise State after completing this season at NIC.

"We're excited for him," Phay said. "Hopefully the Vandal fans don't boo him at our home games. We're happy to have him for the rest of the year and we'll cheer him on next year."

Clemson, South Carolina and East Tennessee State were among the other school interested in Webb.

"He had a handful of schools," Phay said. "But Boise State was the most loyal and most serious about bringing him in."

NIC travels to Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, Ore., on Friday.