Julieus Clayton may be heating up the basketball court right now, but he hopes to heat up courtrooms in a few years. The 6’ 3” forward plans on going to law school after completing his studies at Walters State and then finishing his bachelor’s degree.

“I went to a small high school in Memphis, so Walters State was a good place for me to start. Here, you have everything you need. Tutors are available and teachers are always understanding,” Clayton said.

One of those teachers that Clayton has found particularly helpful is Aubrey Shoemaker, associate professor of psychology.

“In her class, we learn and we also enjoy the class. She wants to know about everything that’s going on,” Clayton said. Clayton, a chemistry major, admits he does have to do quite a bit of studying. He decided to major in one of the natural sciences to gain a broader education than what is offered in the typical pre-law majors.

He’s attending Walters State on a basketball scholarship, although one might call him an accidental recruit. He just happened to be playing basketball with a couple of friends that Coach Bill Carlyle was recruiting. Once Carlyle saw Clayton play, he became the target of the recruiting trip.

“Coach Carlyle is a great person and a great coach. He coaches you on and off the court. Now that the season is over, he’s still advising us.”

This year, the Senators finished with a 20-11 record. Clayton is excited about next year’s recruits and promises a great 2007-08 season.

“Next year, we’re definitely going to the national tournament.”

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