BRANNDON BRAXTON After long wait, Oklahoma gets Ursuline senior

The offensive lineman was impressed by the Sooners' strong reputation.
By JOHN BASSETTI
VINDICATOR SPORTS STAFF
YOUNGSTOWN -- With a disposition as mild as a lamb, it's a wonder Branndon Braxton could deliver a pancake block.
Yet, those are results the University of Oklahoma football staff wants from the Ursuline High senior, who verbally committed to the Sooners' program next fall.
The 6-foot-6, 300-pound Braxton made the announcement of his decision Wednesday afternoon.
"It just feels like the right fit," said the 18-year-old. "I feel comfortable there."
Oklahoma's reputation, especially in the last several years under coach Bob Stoops, influenced his decision.
"Of course. They're a good team," he said of the squad that lost to LSU in the Sugar Bowl in a game for a share of the national championship.
LSU and Georgia were the other serious choices of the son of Eric Braxton and Tonya Harris.
In addition to his pass and run blocking, Branndon felt his long arms and ability to move were attributes the Sooners sought.
Taking his time
The two-year starter at offensive tackle waited until before Christmas to visit the Norman, Okla., campus and until after New Year's Day to visit Georgia.
By the time he got back to Georgia, available scholarships were taken, he said.
"I waited too long and things got tied up," he said. "I'm the kind who puts things off."
He didn't visit LSU in Baton Rouge, La.
"It's been pins and needles with Braxton," said his father, a former Rayen School athlete. "One day it's yes, the next day it's no."
But Branndon didn't want to rush his decision.
"I waited until the end. I didn't want to jump into anything too soon," he said.
In fact, Braxton didn't make up his mind until Wednesday.
"I had it in mind and talked to my parents about it, but I didn't say anything until Wednesday. I kept it to myself," he said.
Football journey
Braxton was born in Youngstown, then moved to Lithonia, Ga., for eight years. He returned here as a sophomore, but wasn't a starter.
Then he matured slowly.
"I didn't play at all as a sophomore. But going against all the varsity players in practice made me better," he said.
The offensive line is a good place for Braxton, whose high school highlight was being an unsung hero.
"It doesn't bother me," he said of playing without glory. "I'm a team player."
Sounds like somebody Oklahoma would want -- sooner than later.