By Jacob Sloan
neighborsgo assistant editor

Rockwall-Heath High School running back Kendial Lawrence orally committed to the University of Missouri on Jan. 18 at Shenaniganz in Rockwall. The decision was broadcast live on the local Fox affiliate with sports anchor Max Morgan.

Lawrence had narrowed down his choice to four schools – Southern Methodist University, Missouri, Iowa State and Louisville – before his big announcement. On Sunday, he tossed each baseball cap out one by one, finally choosing his black-on-black Missouri hat over the SMU red and blue as the crowd around him erupted with cheers.

Lawrence was the leading rusher in the Dallas area in 2008 with 2,679 yards and 43 touchdowns in his senior season. Rockwall-Heath made it all the way to the state quarterfinals off of his efforts.

In order for his oral commitment to be made official, Lawrence must sign a national letter of intent after Feb. 4.

Jacob Sloan is the assistant editor for Rockwall/Rowlett/Heath/Royse City neighborsgo. Contact him at 469-330-5689 or jsloan@neighborsgo.com, or connect with him online at neighborsgo.com/jacob.