Butler senior Tyler Frederick is continuing his academic and basketball career at La Roche College. He chose La Roche over Pitt-Johnstown, Shippensburg, Penn State Behrend and Saint Vincent.

BUTLER TWP — College basketball was always a goal for Tyler Frederick.

“But it felt more like a dream,” the Butler senior center said. “I never thought it was actually going to happen.”

It has.

The 6-foot-6 Frederick — who scored 1,000 points for the Golden Tornado despite never picking up a basketball until seventh grade — is headed to La Roche College.

He chose the Redhawks over Pitt-Johnstown, Shippensburg, Penn State Behrend and Saint Vincent.

“I wasn't sure we'd get Tyler because we were up against some Division II schools and they can offer scholarships,” La Roche coach Hermie Carmichael said. “But we were able to put together a nice financial package for him.”

La Roche is a Division III school and thus not permitted to offer athletic scholarships.

To read more on this story, pick up Thursday's edition of the Butler Eagle or subscribe to ButlerEagle.com.