Spartanburg, S.C. – The USC Upstate men's basketball team has signed Jacob Schulte to a National Letter of Intent to play for the Spartans beginning next season, Upstate head coach Eddie Payne announced Thursday.

A native of Newport, Ky., and a product of Newport Central Catholic High School, Schulte averaged 12 points and 8.3 rebounds last season under head coach Ron Dawn on his way to being named to the 2013 All-A State Tournament team. 

"I really think USC Upstate is getting a great person and one of the nicest kids I've ever coached," Dawn said. "He has a huge upside to his game and will work extremely hard to maximize his potential."

Schulte was also selected to the Ashland Invitational all-tournament team and was an All-A State champion in 2013. He was also tabbed to the 9th Region all-tournament team and the 36th District all-tournament team in 2012.

"Jake is a very consistent post player who really understands how to play the game," Upstate Eddie Payne said. "He contributes in a lot of ways, especially with the way he handles the ball and how tough he plays the game, and I think his best basketball is ahead of him. He's got some growth ahead of him and as he develops his body I think he has a chance to be a very good player for us."

Schulte also played AAU basketball for the Shining Stars under head coach Mike Price.

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