5-star ATH Mecole Hardman commits to Georgia with decoy cakes

Five-star athlete Mecole Hardman Jr. officially stayed home and committed to Georgia on Wednesday morning, but it wasn’t without some drama.

Hardman, the 11th-best prospect in the country according to Rivals.com, held an announcement at Elbert County High School. And instead of laying out hats on a table like so many others, five cakes were set up instead. There was a problem, though. There were cakes for Tennessee, Michigan, Florida, Clemson and Ohio State, but no Georgia. Would the local kid spurn the Bulldogs?

Not so fast.

After the cakes were lined up on the table, Hardman came out wearing all UGA gear to the delight of the folks in attendance.

Hardman, who could potentially contribute on both sides of the ball, vowed to bring a national title back to Athens.

Hardman becomes the third five-star recruit to join Kirby Smart’s first class at Georgia. Quarterback Jacob Eason and tight end Isaac Nauta have already enrolled.

On top of that, the Bulldogs are also in contention for a few other five-stars, including defensive tackle Derrick Brown and wideout Demetris Robertson.

For more Georgia news, visit UGASports.com.

- - - - - - -

Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!

Follow @SamDCooper