Thornton Accepts Offer From Northridge

Glendora, CA -- Citrus College sophomore Steven Thornton Jr. has accepted a scholarship offer from California State University Northridge. Thornton Jr., who was the only Owl to appear and start in all 27 games for Citrus this past season, will suit up for the Matadors of the Big West next season.

"It's [CSUN] close to home so my dad and family can come watch. I know a lot of the guys that are on the team, and it's a good group," Thornton Jr. said. "Their coaching staff is like family, and that's important to me."

During the 2012-2013 season, Thornton Jr. was second on the team averaging 15.4 points per game on 44.1% shooting from the floor and 33.9% shooting from three. Thornton Jr. had his best game of the year at College of the Canyons on February 22nd when he scored a season high 27 points, draining four threes and helping the Owls to a victory over the Cougars in the championship game of the WSC Tournament.

"Citrus has taught me a lot about competing. They brought me back up to speed. They've helped me every step of the way, and never gave up on me," Thornton Jr. said. "They showed me that a team is like a family, and you do anything for your family."

"Steve had an excellent year, and even though he was only in our program for one year he's made a big impact," said Citrus College Head Men's Basketball Coach Chris Victor. "I believe his best basketball is still ahead of him, and I'm excited to be able to see him compete for the next two years at Northridge."

Thornton is the third Owl to accept a scholarship offer this year. Sophomore's Kerry Carter (Cal State Fullerton) and Gregory Sequele (DePaul University) signed at the beginning of the year. Since the 2005-2006 season, no program in California has moved on more players to four-year schools than the Citrus College Men's Basketball program. In that span, 51 players have accepted scholarship offers to four-year schools.