WATCH: Ben Davis UA jersey presentation
Linebacker Ben Davis was presented with an Under Armour All-America jersey on Tuesday afternoon, in a ceremony attended by friends, family and classmates at Gordo High in Gordo, Alabama.
Before the ceremony, the 6-4, 237-pound hard-hitting linebacker spoke about the meaning of his selection to the Under Armour All-America Game.
“For me, it’s really humbling to be the first player from my high school to be selected to the Under Armour All-America Game,” said Davis. “And to be chosen as one of the top guys in the country, it’s very humbling. I’m really excited to get down to Orlando and show my skills against other top guys from around the country.”
The No. 54-ranked prospect in the class of 2016 isn’t big on talking about personal awards. Instead, he thinks with the big picture in mind. Being selected to take part in the prestigious game on ESPN could serve as motivation for the young athletes in Gordo.
“I think this is really big for the little kids in the community that have big dreams," Davis said. "I know when I was a kid, I watched the Under Armour Game and said I wanted to be a part of that game.”
Davis continues to be one of the most heavily recruited prospects in the Southeast Region. The No. 6-ranked outside linebacker in the class has a firm top three, but remains open in the process with eyes on a national signing day decision.
“I had a great visit to Georgia last weekend," Davis said. "Georgia stands as one of my top three schools after my visit, along with LSU and Alabama. I plan to make official visits to Alabama, Auburn, LSU and Florida State and announce my decision on signing day.”
Seven questions with Ben Davis:
What player are you looking forward to competing with or against in the Under Armour All-America Game?
The offensive linemen. I know E.J. Price will be trying to block me. I’m looking forward to keeping those big dudes from blocking me.
If you could start a team with any player in your class, who would it be and why?
I would start my team with Kendell Jones. I would go with defensive line, and Kendell is just so big. He would occupy blockers every play.
What is your earliest football memory?
Everybody probably remembers their first TD. It was a fumble return because I was playing defense in pee-wee league. I played defensive tackle and nose guard at that age.
Which football player did you watch as a kid?
I really liked the way Ray Lewis played. I wanted to be an inside guy like Ray Lewis. I liked Patrick Willis too.
If you could take on any pro in their sport, who would it be and why?
It would have to be LeBron James. If you beat LeBron James, you are on the map worldwide.
What number do your wear, and why?
I wear 1. It’s not really significant. My freshman year I was 44. I really wanted 4 as s sophomore, but it was taken. A player that wore 1 quit, and coach asked me if I wanted it.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I’m not originally from Alabama. I was actually born in Arizona, and lived there until I was 11.