Waco, Tex. ? Mario Kinsey, a two-sport standout who started his college career at Kansas University, became the first player to sign with the Waco Wranglers – his hometown team in the American Basketball Assn.

Kinsey was the starting quarterback for the Jayhawks during most of the 2001 season. He also played part of one semester on the KU basketball team.

After the 2001 fall semester, Kinsey was dismissed from KU for violating athletic department policies.

He went on to play at Sam Houston State and Texas College.

“I’m excited Waco will be able to see basketball here at a professional level,” Kinsey added. “I’m ready for the season to start.”

The Waco Wranglers joined the ABA this season and the 2006-2007 season will be their first to compete.