McKenzie, Tenn. -Lexington, Kentucky native Michael Gardner has signed with the Bethel University Men's Basketball program. Michael played football for the University of Kentucky from 2008-10. He transferred to Southwestern Illinois Community College because of his love and desire to play basketball. The incoming junior will major in Business at Bethel. He is the son of Robert and Joy Watson of Lexington.

The 6'5 forward played his prep ball at Henry Clay High School in Lexington. He averaged eight points and ten rebounds per game for SICC.

He feels his strengths are his athletic ability, toughness, and work ethic.

He chose Bethel because of the tremendous chemistry between the players and feels the coaches care about their players as student-athletes. He was also recruited by Harris Stowe University, Shorter University, and St. Leo University.

"Mike brings another front court player to our roster," stated Bethel Head Coach Jeff Britt. He added, "Hopefully he will give us depth and some help across the front line. I look forward to working with him this season."