NORMAL -- A&M men's basketball head coach Willie Hayes has announced the signing of Ladarius Tabb from Shelton State Community College and Xavier Williams from Central Park Christian high school.

Tabb, a native of Newbern, Alabama, decided during the early signing period to play for the Maroon and White this upcoming season.

"He is a pretty good athlete who plays the wing position, he will rebound and is a great defender," Hayes said of Tabb. “He is aggressive and will get the ball off the glass."

In his first year of action, Tabb played in 16 games earning nine starts. That season he was second on the team averaging 9.4 points and fourth in rebounds averaging 5.2 per game, as well as second on the team with 26 steals.

"We are looking for guys to fit into the program and fit the mold that we are trying to build here." said Hayes

The Shelton State starter recorded seven double-figure scoring games with six in a row.

While at Francis Marion High School, Tabb was a three-year letterman for coach Lee Hollis. He averaged 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and three steals per game as a senior, while leading the Rams to an 18-12 record and berth in the regional finals.

Xavier Williams is a 6-9, 210 forward from Birmingham, Ala. He transferred from Fairfield High Preparatory School to finish his high school career at Central Park Christian.

As a senior, Williams averaged nine points, seven rebounds, and three blocks per contest during the 2012-13 season with the Eagles.

“Williams is a face to the basket type of player, very athletic.” said Hayes. “He will play the four spot and has that toughness we have been looking for.” Hayes continued.

These individuals will join a Bulldogs squad that advanced to the semifinal round of the 2013 SWAC tournament for the first time since the 2005 season.