[10/13/04]A pair of Warren Central basketball players, including the two-time defending player of the year, have verbally committed to play college ball next season.

Cookie Johnson, the Lady Vikes’ dominant post player and the county’s top player the last two years, and transfer Shondalyn Rogers gave verbal commitments to the University of New Orleans.

“The coach has been watching me since my sophomore year and she called and offered me a scholarship,” Johnson said. “She told me if I work hard, I might get some (playing time).”

Rogers, who lived in Vicksburg before moving with her military family, returns for her senior season with the Lady Vikes.

“It’s rare that we have a senior that moves in here that can play,” WC coach Donny Fuller said. “Shondalyn is a really good player and we are hoping she has a good year for us.”

Johnson averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds per game last season in leading the Lady Vikes to a trip to the Class 5A state tournament.

New Orleans finished last season 10-17 and has only one senior on this year’s squad.

The Lady Vikes begin the season on Nov. 9 against Jefferson County in the Vicksburg Warren Coca-Cola Classic.