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Recruiting News

LOWRY FORCED TO RECONSIDER
September 30, 2003

After an impressive summer and an early fall that featured serious interest from major schools, Kyle Lowry figured to sign this fall.

But the 6-0, 180-pound PG from Philadelphia (PA) Cardinal Dougherty was caught in a crossfire of commitments that affected several of the schools on his list -- and may cause him to delay his decision. more....

“Location is not a factor for me at all ...”
September 30, 2003

— Jason Richards
Read full story....

TWO MORE GUARD COMMITMENTS
September 30, 2003

North Carolina received a commitment from Quentin Thomas, who will address the Tar Heels' need for a point guard and add further clarity to the national recruiting scene. Continuing a surge of commitments from top guards, Thomas picked UNC over Kansas (which just added NY combo guard Russell Robinson) and Arizona State.

At UConn, Jim Calhoun's Huskies landed big-time point guard A.J. Price, who disappointed numerous high-major programs and will carry on UConn's tradition of strong point men. more....

CERASOLI LEADS WEEKEND COMMITS
September 29, 2003

A slew of commitments have come in the past few days, headlined by Justin Cerasoli's pledge to Seton Hall.

Cerasoli, a super ball-handler as a 6-4 PG/WG, is a fantastic addition for the Pirates. In addition to his fabulous dribbling ability, the Aurora (IL) West star is a crafty scorer who excels at getting into the lane and scoring using teardrop finishes at the basket. more....

WINTHROP GETS THE POINT
September 29, 2003

Gregg Marshall of Winthrop has enjoyed a great run of success the past few years, and the upstart coach has landed a commitment that will help keep the flow going.

Chris Gaynor, a 5-10, 160-pound PG from Winston-Salem (NC) Mt. Tabor, was the first Class of 2004 product to commit to the Eagles. more....

SENIOR CLASS FALL RANKINGS

Let the debates begin. PrepStars.com guru Brick Oettinger has completed his brand new fall rankings for the Class of 2004.

After years of following behind Al Jefferson, Dwight Howard finally has broken through and usurped the top spot in the land. He's followed by sensational point guard Shaun Livingston, the still-strong Jefferson, Seattle's finest in Marvin Williams and leaper deluxe Josh Smith.

For the top 200, plus roughly 300 more names from Players to Watch, just follow the link! Fall 2004 Rankings

Young Attracting Attention
September 26, 2003

With high quality post players seemingly always in short supply, it's no surprise that JUCO C Richard Young is getting close inspection this fall from a number of interested schools.

Young, a 6-9, 230-pound SO from Hillsborough (FL) JC, is seeing interest in his talents start to pick up as schools such as Clemson, Florida State, South Florida, UAB, Marshall and Radford have all been in to evaluate him. more....

“I was able to talk with them like they were my friends. ...”
September 24, 2003

— Carlton Reed
Read full story....

MEMPHIS ADDS FRONTCOURT HELP
September 24, 2003

Coming off their recent miss of top big man target Mohamed Tangara, the Memphis Tigers didn't waste time finding a frontcourt anchor.

John Calipari's program now has four commitments from the Class of 2004, including Darius Washington, Shawne Williams, Robert Dozier and now their biggest player yet. more....

THE HUNT IS FINISHED
September 24, 2003

Solid mid-major guard Kenny Hunt has made his college choice. Hunt, a 5-11 PG at Altavista (VA) High, had attracted serious interest -- and even a couple scholarship offers -- from schools in the Atlantic-10 and other high-major conferences.

In the end, however, Hunt decided to commit where he felt most comfortable, to a smaller school that appears to be rising a steady incline. more....

PIRATES WRAP UP LAING
September 24, 2003

Most people believed early on that the Big East would be hard to beat for Brian Laing, so Laing's pledge to Seton Hall comes as no surprise. Laing, a 6-5, 217-pound WF from Bronx (NY) St. Raymond's, chose the Pirates over co-finalist Richmond.

"Yeah, I kind of have always liked the Big East since I was a kid, watching the games on television," Laing said. more....

PERRY MAKES IT OFFICIAL
September 24, 2003

It didn't take long for Sam Perry to answer yes when he got the offer he wanted.

"Clemson came in and saw me at an open gym Monday night," Perry said. "Coach (Oliver) Purnell was there and afterward he offered me, and I immediately accepted." more....

PERRY ON THE VERGE?
September 23, 2003

A top-75 player may commit very soon, and it's a name that might read unfamiliar to some of our readers. Sam Perry, a 6-6 BF/WF from Piedmont (SC) Woodmont, met with an ACC head coach last night and may be ready to pull the trigger.

Perry, who was sensational at AAU Nationals -- particularly in one pivotal matchup against top-10 forward Rudy Gay -- is one of the nation's most underrated players. more....

“My first visit will be October 15 to Southern Cal.”
September 23, 2003

— Emanuel Willis
Read full story....

WRIGHT, JONES, MORE COMMITMENTS
September 23, 2003

It took longer than anyone would have imagined a year ago, but Syracuse has received a commitment from Dayshawn Wright, a 6-7 BF who hails from Syracuse.

Wright, who played at Fowler high school before transferring to Oak Hill Academy this year, was considered a near-lock to commit to Syracuse most of junior year, but it wasn't until this week that the Orangemen and Wright finally made it official. more....

PREPSTER WINS WAITING GAME
September 23, 2003

Jermyl Jackson-Wilson committed to Colorado last spring as a senior at Milwaukee (WI) Rufus King, giving him a chance to lace them up in the Big 12.

But Jackson-Wilson decided to take a gamble, choosing not to sign with Colorado and instead is attending Fork Union (VA) Military this year despite the fact that he was fully qualified to play as a freshman. The point, of course, was that he wanted to get more big-time interest. more....

MCGEE HAS EARLY LIST
September 19, 2003

With regard to Class of 2005 standout Andre McGee, the nation’s talent evaluators have had little difficulty reaching a consensus- the 5-11 point guard is a rising star. McGee accepts the flattering comments cautiously, however, because he knows he still has work to do.

"I’m just going to keep on working on everything," McGee said. "You can always improve, and that’s I want to do. Mainly, though, I’d like to get stronger and work on my leadership. You’ve got to be able to lead your teammates. That is something that colleges will ask of me." more....

“I want to get mentally prepared for the next level …”
September 19, 2003

— Rajon Rondo
Read full story....

Highlanders Get A Verbal
September 19, 2003

The Radford basketball program under head coach Byron Samuels has picked up their first verbal commitment of the season in 6-7,240-pound F/C J.J. Coley from Tampa (FL) Hillsborough JC.

Coley picked the Highlanders over interest from Chicago St,Berry, Fairmont State, Eastern Kentucky and Tennessee-Martin. more....

SHAW DOWN TO THREE
September 18, 2003

Heading into the recruiting process, Centralia (IL) High product Matt Shaw wanted to investigate as many schools as possible.

After completing a strong summer with the St. Louis Eagles, the 6-6 combo forward has narrowed his list of schools to three, and he takes his first official visit this weekend. Shaw plans to take all three trips and take an objective look at each school. more....

“North Carolina, always ...”
September 18, 2003

— Junior Leo Criswell, naming his favorite
Read full story....

ROANOKE CATHOLIC CONTINUES LEGACY
September 17, 2003

Roanoke (VA) Catholic coach Dick Wall knows how to spot a successful trend, and Wall has imported Paulius "Paska" Morkeliunas from Lithuania this year to perpetuate a Lithuanian pipeline at his school that includes, among others, 6-10 South Carolina freshman Paulius Joneliunas.

While Morkeliunas doesn't have Joneliunas' size at 6-6, 210 pounds, he brings plenty of his own qualities to the team. more....

MORE MAJOR COMMITMENTS
September 17, 2003

This week is quickly shaping up to be the most active of the year so far for Class of 2004 commitments. You can add Syracuse and Michigan to the list of major programs that have scored with top targets.

Starting in the backcourt, Syracuse has landed Josh Wright, a 6-0 PG at Utica (NY) Proctor. Wright proved during the spring and summer that he's one of the best scoring guards in the class, using his shooting ability to rain in jumpers from deep or twisting among big men inside on drives. more....

“Do I think Dillion can be like a poor man's Elton Brand? Yeah. ...”
September 16, 2003

— Chad Osterman, on Dillion Sneed
Read full story....

NWANKWO READY TO DECIDE?
September 16, 2003

Expect a commitment from Davis Nwankwo in the next few days -- and the Georgetown Prep (D.C.) senior forward has switched his allegiance from Stanford to another Pac-10 power.

The 6-9, 220-pound Nwankwo just returned from a trip to Arizona and now the Wildcats are the heavy favorite -- pending one minor detail. more....

TOUR: ILLINI, DEVILS MAKE GAINS
September 16, 2003

A pair of big men announced today, giving two big-time programs a boost to their frontcourt ammo.

Aurora (IL) West big forward Shaun Pruitt committed to Illinois over runner-up Michigan State. Pruitt, a 6-8 BF, is a talented lefty who wasn't spectacular over the summer as he recovered from injury, but he still showed above average offense in the post and good mobility. Meanwhile, at Duke, the Blue Devils reeled in top-25 junior forward Josh McRoberts. more....

MT. ST. MARY'S ADDS ANOTHER
September 16, 2003

Continuing their fall recruiting success, Mt. St Mary's has picked up a commitment from Chris Vann, a 6-0, 185-pound WG/PG from Woodbridge (VA) Gar Field, who was the Cardinal District and Northwestern Region Player of the Year in 2003.

Vann averaged 21 points, five rebounds and three assists last season and was named first team all-state in the high school coaches poll, and second team in the Associated Press' Group AAA class, the highest in the state. more....

“I passed a 50-player tryout for two weeks in Puerto Rico. ...”
September 15, 2003

— A.D. Vasallo Colon, on playing in World Championships
Read full story....

SHULER MAKES HIS DECISION
September 15, 2003

One of the more underrated guards around, 6-2, 178-pound guard Jamal Shuler of Jacksonville (NC) High, has made a commitment. Shuler averaged 24 points, 10.8 rebounds, 6.5 assists and 2.8 steals last year, and that only begins to tell the story of what he can do on the floor.

"Jamal is a two-way player who plays defense and will be instant offense once he steps on a college floor," Jacksonville coach Russell Stevens said. more....

TOUR: RATLIFF GIVES IU NO. 5
September 15, 2003

In basketball recruiting, greed can be very good. Indiana showed just how good over the weekend, when Mike Davis' Hoosiers snared a commitment from talented combo guard A.J. Ratliff. Ratliff, a 6-2 PG/WG at Indianapolis (IN) North Central, chose the Hoosiers over Iowa and Xavier.

Ratliff proved at the NBA Players Camp and at Nike that he's among the premier guards in the senior class. He isn't a classic playmaker, but he has improved his point guard skills. more....

“... we felt it was best to get the process done before my senior season.”
September 12, 2003

— Daniel Fountain, on his commitment
Read full story....

GRANT PICKS WOLFPACK
September 12, 2003

N.C. State coach Herb Sendek has once again tapped New York City for a prime recruit, adding Gavin Grant to a mix that already includes star junior Julius Hodge.

Grant, a 6-6 WF/WG from Bronx (NY) St. Raymonds, chose the Wolfpack over Pittsburgh, Villanova, Richmond and others. The slender wing didn't explode during the summer quite as much as some expected, but regardless he is a good wing athlete who has scoring tools from mid and long-range. more....

TOWNES TO VISIT SEC SCHOOL
September 12, 2003

After signing last year with Georgetown but coming up short of qualification, Darian Townes' arrival into the college game was held up a year. And now, the 6-9, 235-pound BF has re-opened his recruitment and is taking an official visit this weekend to SEC country.

Townes, who played at Washington (DC) Archbishop Carroll and is prepping this year at Chatham (VA) Hargrave Military, said he's open but has strong interest in the SEC, ACC and Atlantic-10, although just a handful of schools have contacted him so far. more....

FINAL AAU TOP 25 POLL

The summer is over and it wasn't all that tough to figure out who earned the top ranking in the country.

Although the Atlanta Celtics and California Pump 'N Run both finished strong, the Gauchos from New York captured both the Peach Jam and the Super Showcase titles, sealing their triumph as the nation's first-ever AAU National Champion. more....

PETTWAY TAKES ALTERNATE ROUTE
September 11, 2003

One of the more interesting stories among junior college players this year is that of 6-9, 230-pound BF/C Aaron Pettway of Hutchinson (KS) Junior College. Pettway graduated from Mobile (AL) Shaw back in 1998, but he didn't play basketball and didn't go directly to college.

Instead, the 23-year old big man served took this route: Pettway joined the Air Force out of high school and played recreationally at Andrews Air Force. more....

“Old Dominion watched every one of my games at Nike. ...”
September 11, 2003

— Jason Thompson, pledging to ODU
Read full story....

TOUR: TONEY PICKS BULLDOGS
September 11, 2003

Georgia's personnel dilemma brightened yesterday, when key in-state prospect Channing Toney ended his recruitment in favor of the Bulldogs. Georgia, which faced severe attrition in wake of the Jim Harrick fallout, needs a strong class, and Toney is exactly the type of player who can help give the program talent and stability.

Toney, a 6-4 WG at Snellville (GA) Brookwood, is a dynamic scorer who has three-point range and also can create from mid-range off the dribble. more....

THOMAS READY FOR FIRST TRIP
September 10, 2003

Quentin Thomas hears the comments tossed around about his game, that he's shifted his focus from scoring a lot of points to running the show and setting up his teammates.

"A lot of people think I'm one of the pure point guards in this class," Thomas said. "I'll do whatever it takes to get everyone involved and make them better." more....

“I just really loved the school, the players, everything about it.”
September 10, 2003

— Pat Calathes, discussing his commitment
Read full story....

TOUR: NEW SCHOOL BREAKS ONTO SCENE
September 10, 2003

Not too many people have heard of New Creations Christian (Ind.), but second-year head man Travis McAvene hopes to change that -- with the help of point guard Devon Deans.

Elsewhere in the nation, slender forward Taj Finger, a mobile athlete and excellent student, currently favors Stanford and Richmond. more....

FORD REVVING UP IN CALI
September 9, 2003

Several years have passed now, but it seems like yesterday that we sat courtside watching Michael Ford scream"threeball" while knocking in long jumpers for the Atlanta Celtics.

But rather than build upon his status as a top-100 prospect heading into his senior year in the fall of 2001, the 6-1, 195-pound guard dropped out of Macon (GA) Northeast -- ending any chance he had of playing major college basketball. more....

TADYSAK PROMISING BUT UNPROVEN
September 9, 2003

Ordinarily, 6-10 kids with solid academics steer clear of junior college. But after high school, Naples (FL) Lely tower Jordan Tadysak bucked the trend and opted for an additional year of seasoning at Seward County (KS) Community College.

Due to the inferior competition Tadysak faced in high school, some college coaches wondered whether or not he could succeed against players his height in college. more....

“... I got along with the team, and that was definitely the key.”
September 8, 2003

— Drew Hall
Read full story....

TOUR: NOTRE DAME PREP; OFFICIAL VISITS
September 5, 2003

Bill Barton's Fitchburg (MA) Notre Dame Prep squad may not have the big-name player as it did a season ago with Gary Ervin, but there are plenty of intriguing players on this year's team.

In other news, this weekend is key for some big-time kids hitting the road for official visits. Among the top players making a trip is center Alexander Kaun, who is making the trek to Kansas. more....

“Right now I'm really torn and couldn't make a choice (between football and basketball).”
September 5, 2003

— Tyree Evans
Read full story....

PERRY RIDING SUMMER MOMENTUM
September 5, 2003

After a strong showing on the summer circuit, Sam Perry intends to get down to the business of selecting a college, knowing that his stock is now higher than ever.

"I was very happy with my play this summer and it went real well," Perry told PrepStars.com. "There were good games against great competition and I was able to showcase my skills." more....

BOSNIAN POST A HIGH-MAJOR SLEEPER
September 4, 2003

Affectionately known as the "Tall Bosnian", 6-8 big forward prospect Damir Saljagic readily refers to his European pedigree. Yet, despite the fact that names like Toni Kukoc and Vlade Divac roll effortlessly off his tongue, Saljagic is eager to carve out his basketball identity in the United States.

Saljagic's classically European game -- a little inside, a little outside -- actually blossomed in reverse. more....

“When my jumper is falling, I feel that I can't be stopped.”
September 4, 2003

— Juco sophomore Vincent Grier
Read full story....

CHAFFEY GUARD A GOOD SHOOTER
September 4, 2003

A native Californian, 6-3 combo guard Phillip Scott had traveled cross-country to attend high school in Maryland. And Scott had hoped that the change of venue would increase his visibility and his prospects of receiving big-time scholarship offers.

But because Scott is just an average athlete, most major schools kept their distance, forcing Scott to return to the West Coast to restart his recruitment from scratch. more....

TOUR: BINNIE CHOOSES FLYERS
September 3, 2003

Jimmie Binnie knew he wanted to go to Dayton for a while, but he just wanted to make sure. A visit to the campus was all he needed.

The 6-6, 190-pound Iowa native took a recent trip to Baylor, primarily because it was in the Big 12 and also because of new coach Scott Drew, but decided to commit to new Flyers coach Brian Gregory on Tuesday -- just days after making an official visit. more....

“... he made me feel like I was a big piece of the puzzle.”
September 3, 2003

— Joe Gates, on his commitment
Read full story....

DERRICK JASPER: AN EARLY LOOK
September 3, 2003

While the furor surrounding the senior class increases as more top players announce their decisions, let's take a quick peek at a player who will have his own options in a couple years: Derrick Jasper.

Jasper, a 6-5 sophomore WG at Paso Robles (CA) High, is a promising athlete who has grown more than four inches in the past year and already has proven himself against older competition. more....

PAULUS ANNOUNCES FOR DUKE
September 2, 2003

He reminds some of Bobby Hurley and now Greg Paulus will have a chance to follow in the former Duke point guard's footsteps.

The 6-1, 175-pound Syracuse (NY) Christian Brothers two-sport star, who will quarterback the team in its season-opener Friday, chose the Blue Devils over Notre Dame at a news conference on Tuesday afternoon. more....

“I just found out that I have grown one inch. ...”
September 2, 2003

— Zach Pancratz
Read full story....

TOUR: MICHIGAN STATE NABS JUNIOR
September 2, 2003

The commitments are coming at a fast and furious rate, and one that could get overlooked is junior Eric Devendorf landing at Michigan State.

The 6-3, 175-pound Bay City (MI) Central guard played very well at the ABCD Camp this past July, getting to the basket against older players and displaying a versatile game that sold Spartans coach Tom Izzo and his staff. more....

FOR MAYS, IT'S ALL ABOUT FREEDOM
September 2, 2003

Common sense dictates that virtually all 6-11 players make their basketball headquarters in the post. But Charlie Mays wants to be different.

"I want to go somewhere that I don't play with my back to the basket all the time," Mays said, "a place that realizes that just because of my height, I'm not that player." more....

RAMS ADD TALENTED WING
September 2, 2003

The VCU Rams have been busy adding to their frontcourt the past couple weeks, and the latest addition is 6-7, 195-pound WF Michael Anderson from Virginia Beach (VA) Landstown.

Anderson is a long, rangy athlete who showed noticeable improvement throughout the spring and summer. more....

TOUR: TANGARA PICKS ARIZONA
September 1, 2003

Arizona made a giant step in addressing its frontcourt concerns, getting a weekend commitment from Mohamed Tangara. Tangara, a 6-9 C at Durham (NC) Mt. Zion, chose the Wildcats over strong interest from Miami, Michigan, Louisville, Memphis, Florida and others.

Tangara has been a fixture on the AAU circuit for several years. He's built his top-75 reputation on super-aggressive play around the basket, fighting for every rebound and contesting every shot in the lane on defense. more....

GINYARD MAKES EARLY DECISION
August 30, 2003

Just a day after getting a commitment from All-American senior wing J.R. Smith, North Carolina has reached into the Class of 2005 and captured an early pledge from Marcus Ginyard.

Ginyard, a 6-5 PG/WG from Arlington (VA) Bishop O'Connell, is a talented playmaker and defender who ranks among the top 25 players in the junior class. more....

TOUR: SMITH MAKES IT OFFICIAL
August 29, 2003

J.R. Smith had waited and waited for a scholarship offer from North Carolina, but when it finally came about a month ago, he didn't jump at it.

The Newark (NJ) St. Benedict's 6-5 senior swingman finally ended his recruitment on Thursday when he committed to the Tar Heels after also considering Pittsburgh. more....

HOLMES TWINS NOT ATTACHED
August 29, 2003

Perhaps one of the most intriguing scenarios in high school basketball is how to recruit twins. Of course, it's only natural for a set of talented twins and their families to look into situations where brothers can play together on the next level.

College coaches then have to decide whether to go after one or both twins, who are tough to recruit independently but typically play the same position. Such is the situation for Olathe (KS) South's 6-6 twin wings Nick and Caleb Holmes. more....

“I've got four visits set up right now.”
August 29, 2003

— Channing Toney
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ROBY SETS EYES UPON MIDWEST
August 28, 2003

With a travel itinerary that will take him east this year to play for Groton (MA) Lawrence Academy, Richard Roby is in for a worldly hoops experience. And perhaps surprisingly, it is either his home out West or his school location East that has seized his attention.

"I like the Big-12, I think it's one of the top conferences in the country," Roby told PrepStars.com. And the 6-5, 190-pound WG/WF, who originally is from San Bernardino, Calif., is getting looks from his favorite conference. more....

“Now, I am looking forward to helping ... LSU become one of the elite teams in America.”
August 28, 2003

— Glen Davis
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'ROOTS TOUR: DAYTON LANDS ROBERTS
August 28, 2003

Toledo St. John Jesuit (Ohio) senior combo guard Brian Roberts opted for stability and proximity and committed to Brian Gregory's Dayton program. The 6-1, 175-pound Roberts chose the Flyers over Georgia, Nebraska and South Florida.

Roberts averaged 19 points, 3.5 assists and three rebounds and made his announcement at a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. He led Jesuit to a state semifinal appearance last season before losing to Columbus Brookhaven. more....

UCLA, XAVIER ADD BIG COMMITENTS
August 27, 2003

UCLA and Xavier have landed key commitments, scooping two more high-major players out of the talent pool.

Starting in Westwood, the Bruins pledged Lorenzo Mata, a 6-8 BF from South Gate (CA) High who emerged as a big-time shot-blocker this spring and summer. Mata's offense likely won't be a big part of Ben Howland's offense at the beginning of his career, but we definitely took notice on the club circuit when he drilled occasional turnaround jump shots. more....

“Florida State, Miami and Minnesota are probably my leaders now.”
August 27, 2003

— Ralph Mims
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MARSHALL'S LAW COULD TAKE HIM WEST
August 27, 2003

Jackson (MS) Wingfield's Christian Marshall has improved in one area -- jump shooting -- that has elevated his stock with college coaches. Marshall, a 6-10, 213-pound BF/C, still is flying under the radar, but he has a resume that suggests his offensive abilities might be better than his low level of publicity would indicate.

"I can make jump shots, that's the big thing," Marshall said. more....

RECRUITING CHAT AT USATODAY.COM!

PrepStars.com recruiting analyst Rob Harrington conducted a recruiting chat at USAToday.com.

To read the full transcript, simply follow the link below:

PrepStars.com/USAToday.com chat

“They had so much confidence in me that it made me ... want to commit.”
August 26, 2003

— Mike Walker, on his decision
Read full story....

RECRUITING CHAT AT USATODAY.COM!

PrepStars.com recruiting analyst Rob Harrington conducted a recruiting chat at USAToday.com.

To read the full transcript, simply follow the link below:

PrepStars.com/USAToday.com chat

NEW YORK GAUCHOS: A CLOSER LOOK
August 26, 2003

No one gave the Gauchos a chance. Not with a three-guard lineup that featured a pair of unknowns up front. However, the boys from N.Y. got things started in April when they traveled to the Kingwood Classic and blew out YOMCA in the title game, and then kept rolling in July with tournament titles at the Peach Jam and Super Showcase.

Senior guards Russell Robinson, Sundiata Gaines and Ronald Ramon didn't just show the physical abilities, but more importantly, they displayed the mental fortitude to outlast their opponents, thus earning the Gauchos the distinction of being the first-ever AAU National Champions. more....

TOUR: GREEN QUIETLY DRAWING HIGH-MAJORS
August 26, 2003

Jeff Green isn't exactly a household name, but he has shown enough to attract attention from some big-time schools.

The 6-8, 215-pound Baltimore (MD) Northwestern forward didn't play in many of the big-time tournaments because he had to attend summer school. However, he was a fixture at the Charlie Weber events. more....

OGIRRI HAS A LEADER
August 26, 2003

Lots of coaches seek out pass-first point guards, and scouts contribute to the love fest by offering endless platitudes about a given kid's ability to run a team or control tempo.

But like other guards who may not be classic playmakers, Sean Ogirri can shoot the ball, and that one skill justifies his high-major interest. And at this point, one school has moved ahead of the field. more....

LEAPER TRYING TO BOUNCE BACK
August 25, 2003

As a relatively unknown rising junior at the 2002 Nike Camp, Terry Evans burst onto the scene with his high-flying style of play. Then Evans, a 6-4 WF at St. Louis (MO) Cardinal Ritter, played through constant left knee pain and battled his way to a state championship last season.

That's when the knee problems, which had not kept him out of action, became serious. more....

“If I had to pick right now, I'd probably pick Stanford.”
August 25, 2003

— Luke Meyer
Read full story....

'ROOTS TOUR: ANDERSON PICKS UTES
August 25, 2003

Rick Majerus locked up his first commitment from the senior class when Lamar (Colo.) High forward Brian Anderson decided to pick the Utes over Wyoming. Colorado, Denver, Stanford, Washington, Holy Cross and others also expressed interest in Anderson.

Anderson made the decision last Thursday night, shortly after taking a visit to the campus while on a trip to take his older sister to Utah Valley State. more....

THOMAS CAPITALIZES ON SUMMER
August 22, 2003

Had it not been for the final week of the summer, at the Super Showcase and AAU Nationals, you wouldn't be reading about Tyrus Thomas.

But Thomas, a 6-7, 185-pound WF/BF from Baton Rouge (LA) McKinley, broke out and showed exciting athleticism, excellent speed in the fullcourt game and a fine shooting touch. Thomas believed his emergence was just a matter of time. more....

THOMAS GETTING WESTERN LOOKS
August 22, 2003

Much ink has been spilled covering ball-handling maestros Justin Cerasoli and Shaun Livingston over the course of the summer, and rightfully so. Both point guards bring talent in a tall package.

While he may not rank alongside those two blue-chippers, another name to mention among the list of tall and talented guards is Matt Thomas. Thomas, a 6-4, 190-pound PG from Riverside, Calif., is well on his way to getting a Divison I scholarship. more....

“I think probably Stanford and Richmond (are my favorites).”
August 22, 2003

— Taj Finger
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RANGE OF SCHOOLS AFTER RICHARDS
August 21, 2003

Over the past couple of years, southwestern Missouri has produced excellent basketball players and has received more recruiting attention as a result. One 2004 prospect from the area, 6-9 BF Drew Richards of Rogersville (MO) High, has quietly emerged as one of the best-kept secrets in the country.

A skilled and aggressive interior player, Richards is anything but a secret with the hordes of college programs from all over the nation looking to get involved. more....

“Georgia Tech and TCU have come on real hard lately.”
August 21, 2003

— Kevin Langford
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JONES HOLDING COURSE
August 21, 2003

After and up and down spring, Marcel Jones turned in a solid summer on the club circuit and maintained his steady recruiting interest. But the 6-5 WF from Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei didn't match his own high expectations.

"I played OK, but sometimes it's hard to make the most of it and you don't get to learn as much," Jones said. "I think I could have played better." more....

BOOM SHALAK LAK BOOM
August 21, 2003

On the basketball court, Bambale "Boom" Osby is the quintessential bull in a china shop. The 6-6, 240-pound BF is a relentless competitor who plays much bigger than his height and compensates for a lack of perimeter skills with brute power. more....

TOUR: CANADIAN GUARD FAVORS A PAIR
August 20, 2003

Pierre-Marie Altidor-Cespedes doesn't get a whole lot of attention being that he's from Canada, but a trio of schools have kept on him after a solid showing at ABCD Camp.

The scoring 6-0, 178-pound guard from Montreal Champlain St. Lambert will visit Gonzaga in early September and then take a trip to Georgia later in the month. more....

“... I know I'll probably be a three/two in college.”
August 20, 2003

— Roy Bright
Read full story....

LOUGHRY PREPARED FOR THE MOUNT
August 20, 2003

When entering your first year as a head coach after previously serving as an assistant, getting players can be a major obstacle. So now that new Mt. St. Mary's boss Milan Brown has picked up a commitment from 6-11, 225-pound C Jason Loughry of Severn (MD) Archbishop Spalding, he can breathe a little easier.

Loughry, who boasts a 1,200 SAT score and 3.0 GPA, picked The Mount over Bucknell and Columbia, after also getting interest from Furman, Rice, Kent State and Penn. He made his only official visit to Mt. St. Mary's. more....

LAING COMES THROUGH IN CLUTCH
August 19, 2003

Few players entered the summer with more pressure than Brian Laing. Laing, a 6-5, 215-pound WF from Bronx (NY) St. Raymond's, played well during the 2002 summer circuit, but he had just an average season at St. Raymond's as a junior and needed to play well in July to assure himself of high-major interest.

Consider it done. Laing showed better wing skills than ever and consistently -- and at multiple events -- drilled mid-range jumpers off the dribble. more....

“When I found out they were interested, that became my main focus.”
August 19, 2003

— Tyler Crawford, on his commitment
Read full story....

MILLER A SOLID MID-MAJOR PROSPECT
August 19, 2003

When it comes to choosing the starting line-up, the coaches at Colby (KS) Community College believe that if a kid can flat out play and contribute, he'll get the nod. But occasionally, as in the case of 6-1 guard Branden Miller, the Trojan staff must exercise a little creativity about exactly where a kid will play.

"Well, he's not a pure point guard, and he's not a pure off-guard," said Colby assistant Chad Osterman. "Branden is a legitimate combo guard. He has the handle to play the point, but he is also a tremendous scorer who can really get his own shot. And Branden can really shoot the ball." more....

TOUR: BURCH PREPARES FOR VISITS
August 18, 2003

One of the more underrated players in the country intends to set up some visits in the next week or so. Marion (MA) Tabor Academy and BABC senior Charles Burch, a 6-6 forward forced to play out of position because of a lack of size on both his high school and AAU teams, favors Providence, Dayton, Charleston and Western Kentucky.

A lot of news came in over the weekend, including new commitments, lists, leanings and more. Check it out in today's Grassroots Tour. more....

LEUNEN CLOSES STRONG
August 18, 2003

The summer didn't begin all that well for Maarty Leunen. The 6-9, 200-pound BF/WF from Redmond (OR) High struggled at some June individual camps after building good momentum in the spring.

But Leunen's play improved dramatically during July, as he showed more comfort on the club circuit and showed the inside/outside promise that has caught the eye of high-major programs as the fall approaches. more....

INJURY DERAILS SUMMER SESSION
August 15, 2003

After suffering a back injury in the early summer, the traveling circuit didn't go as Ramon Sessions had planned.

"I didn't get to show much this summer because I hurt my back before ABCD and I didn't get to play there," Sessions told PrepStars.com. "My back was hurting me the whole month, but I saw a chiropractor for a pulled muscle and it's fine now. more....

“... if the school that I like most is out East or down South, (location) won't matter.”
August 14, 2003

— Trent Meacham
Read full story....

TOUR: CYCLONES SET SIGHTS ON CARR
August 14, 2003

Iowa State should lock up Rahshon Clark once he takes a visit to the campus. The Cyclones would like another Easterner, Tasheed Carr, to be next.

The 6-5, 215-pound Carr, a Philadelphia native, said that Iowa State is among his list of leaders, which also includes Ohio State, Temple, St. Joe's, Florida State and Virginia Tech. more....

GARRETT SET TO COMMIT
August 14, 2003

According to sources close to the situation, one-time Xavier recruit Darryl Garrett will commit to Eastern Michigan tonight.

The 6-4, 185-pound Detroit (MI) Denby wing sat out his sophomore season at Denby after transferring from Mackenzie, where he averaged 14 points per game as a freshman. more....

MAJORS JUMP ALL OVER FOSTER
August 14, 2003

Shane Foster is on the rise. And Foster, a 6-6, 185-pound WF from Kenner (LA) Bonnabel, also is a high-riser.

Beginning at the spring tournaments and continuing all summer, Foster displayed terrific leaping ability, a high-release jump shot and an overall smoothness that caught the attention of lots of coaches. more....

HORFORD'S REPUTATION ON THE INCLINE
August 14, 2003

One of Al Horford's greatest strengths is his understanding of exactly what he is: a blue collar insider who does all his damage in the low post. Horford doesn't always get a lot of touches on offense, so he sacrifices his own stats for the good of the team.

"I think the strength of my game is that I play defense and I'm a pretty good rebounder," Horford said. more....

MOORE PICKS TIGERS
August 13, 2003

Cheyenne Moore was close to following his future teammate, Dorell Wright, to DePaul. However, in the end, the smooth, athletic swingman opted for playing time and a premier conference and chose Clemson.

The 6-6, 180-pound senior, who gave Georgetown a verbal commitment more than a year ago and then rescinded his pledge, will transfer from Colora (MD) West Nottingham to South Kent (CT) Prep with his coach, Raphael Chillious. more....

“I haven't committed yet, but I'm planning on making the decision in the next week.”
August 13, 2003

— Jason Horton
Read full story....

TOUR: DUDLEY U-TURNS, PICKS BC
August 13, 2003

Almost as quickly as Cincinnati found a replacement for Jamar Butler, Boston College found an answer for the apparent loss Texas of incoming freshman Dan Coleman. San Diego (CA) Horizon senior forward Jared Dudley has committed to Boston College. Not for next year, but for this 2003-04 season.

Dudley had planned on going to prep school all along and initially turned down offers from a few mid-majors. more....

TOUR: LEWIS PICKS UP POINTERS
August 12, 2003

The knock on Alvin Lewis has been whether he can run a team. After leading Metro Boston/Lena Park to the round of 16 at the Super Showcase, the 6-1, 175-pound senior dispelled any questions.

Lewis, who has shuttled from Marblehead High to the Tilton School and finally to Madison Park, didn't get a chance to run the show last summer because of the presence of Providence freshman Dwight Brewington. more....

“I really felt comfortable with the players, coaches and city.”
August 11, 2003

— Marcus Hammond, on his commitment
Read full story....

TWO PICK TIGERS; GORDON TO VANDY
August 11, 2003

Missouri landed a pair of players this past weekend while Vanderbilt also picked up a verbal commitment.

Glen Dandridge and Marshall Brown both committed to Quin Snyder's Tigers program while Pensacola (FL) High 5-11 point guard Alex Gordon pledged to Vanderbilt. more....

HIGH-MAJORS RUN TO WALKER
August 11, 2003

In the weeks leading up to the Las Vegas Big Time, Mike Walker maintained a very short list -- a very short list of folks who'd ever heard of him. Walker, a 6-2 guard, had been recognized by only a few lower Division I programs and had generated very little buzz among scouts.

But all that changed in Vegas, where Walker was one of the camp's biggest surprises. more....

TOUR: WILLIAMS TO WISCONSIN;
BUTLER TO OHIO STATE
August 8, 2003

When DePaul decided to go in a different direction and pick up Dorell Wright, it basically sealed the deal for Illinois native DeAaron Williams.

The 6-5, 185-pound small forward committed to Wisconsin, one day after taking an unofficial visit to the Badgers campus, according to sources close to the situation. more....

THOMAS AMONG THOSE TO EXPLODE LATE
August 7, 2003

Taking our final look at 2003 summer events, here are profiles of those lesser-known players who impressed us last week at the Disney Complex in Florida. We'll start with a guy, Tyrus Thomas, who came out of nowhere and now projects as a top-100 talent.

Also included in this report are Magnum Rolle, Martin Zeno, Chris Howard, Garrett Temple, Alvin Lewis, Ralph Mims and many more. more....

TOUR: KING GETS CROWNED YOUNG
August 7, 2003

Following in the footsteps of Robert Vaden and Nic Wise, two players who committed as freshmen, incoming Santa Ana (CA) Mater Dei freshman Taylor King made his decision and will attend UCLA — as long as Ben Howland remains in Westwood.

The 6-6 WF, who has yet to play in a high school game, took an unofficial to the UCLA campus on Tuesday and made a decision less than 24 hours later. more....

TOUR: BUTLER OUT, BANKS IN
August 6, 2003

As quickly as Jamar Butler was out of the picture at Cincinnati, Bob Huggins and his staff found a replacement for the high-scoring guard. Georgia native and Laurinburg-bound combo guard Vincent Banks committed to the Bearcats within hours of Butler backing out of his verbal pledge.

``I'm just excited," said the 6-2 Banks, a one-time commit to Miami. ``I couldn't believe they offered and that everything was done so quickly."

SHARPE ON POINT AT NATIONALS
August 6, 2003

In our continuing wrap-up of the prestigious AAU Nationals, here's a comprehensive look at some of the top players in attendance.

Today we're focusing on the top players, including Walter Sharpe, Glen Davis, Shawne Williams and many more. more....

“I think his two leaders are DePaul and Auburn.”
August 5, 2003

— Coach Chad Osterman, on Justin Williams
Read full story....

'ROOTS TOUR: HABEL IS ABLE
August 4, 2003

When Jerome Habel decided to play with the D.C. Blue Devils this summer, no one really knew about him. He was playing on a team with big names like Brian Johnson, Isaiah Swann and Eric Price.

But things changed for the 6-9, 200-pound Habel at the Peach Jam when he displayed his shot-blocking and rebounding skills to college coaches. more....

MORE SCHOOL LISTS FROM FLORIDA
August 4, 2003

After spending last week at the 17-under Nationals in Orlando, here are some final school lists from the summer evaluation period.

Included in the mix are Channing Toney, Ralph Jennings, Anthony Mason Jr., Will Daniels, Sam Dolan Alex Gordon, Karl White and more. more....

“Texas and West Virginia like me for 2005.”
August 4, 2003

— Andre Blatch
Read full story....

BEST OF SUMMER SCHOOL LISTS
August 4, 2003

Here's a look at three updated school lists from last week's Best of Summer tournament in Los Angeles, including updates on rising CA WG Richard Roby, junior CA WF Larry Gurganius and junior WI WG Wes Matthews. more....

MEACHAM, BINNIE COULD JOIN FORCES
August 4, 2003

Trent Meacham had a chance to play with a local AAU team in the state of Illinois, but he chose to play with his good friend and Iowa native, Jimmie Binnie, on the Martin Brothers.

Now the two may have a chance to play together in college as well. more....

YOMCA Takes Home Crown
August 1, 2003

ORLANDO Fla. — With a 62-56 victory over Martin Brothers Select, Memphis Team YOMCA took home the 17U National Championship. 6-8 SR WF Shawne Williams of Memphis (TN) Hamilton had 21 points and 6-7 SR WF/WG Corey Brewer had 16 points in the championship game, held at the Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando. more....

“I want to go somewhere that I can fit in and play as a freshman. ...”
July 31, 2003

— Emanuel Willis
Read full story....

Clark To Iowa State
July 31, 2003

It didn’t take long for Fred Quartlebaum to get things done on the east coast. The former North Carolina assistant will help land a big-time athlete when New York native Rahshon Clark commits to Iowa State within the next few days.

"I just want to make sure everything is right for me and my family and then I’ll call them (Iowa State)," Clark said. "I like Iowa State a lot. They’re like a family and have been recruiting me for a while." more....

At The Prep Stars Camp: Top Players

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — With a share of the region's top talent showcasing their skills, Prep Stars continued to show why it ranks among the best summer camp experiences on the East Coast. For college recruiters scouting this year's Invitational (including the likes of host Charlotte, St. Joe's, Hawaii, and Old Dominion), there was plenty of intense, rim-rocking hoop action to go around. more....

Down To Two In Orlando
July 31, 2003

ORLANDO, Fla. — It will be Beale Street facing the Heartland at the Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando FL when Memphis YOMCA faces off with Martin Brothers Select in the Championship game of the 17U Nationals Thursday.

Martin Brothers Select broke open a close game late and moved into the championship game by whipping Team Richmond 61-54, while YOMCA's 6-8 WF Shawne Williams of Memphis (TN) Hamilton scored 29 points to help the team defeat the Sports Academy (LA) 76-73 in overtime. more....

Quarterfinal Matchups Set At Nationals
July 30, 2003

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Quarterfinal matchups are set at the Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando FL for the 17U tournament.

In quarterfinal #1 it will be the St Louis Eagles squaring off with Martin Brothers Select. The Eagles advanced with victories Tuesday over the Indiana Hornets and Woodbridge (VA) Hawks. Martin Brothers defeated Louisiana Select and Old Gold. more....

Upsets Rule In Nationals
July 29, 2003

ORLANDO, Fla. — They say one of the hardest feats in sports is defending one's title. The latest testimonial to that is defending 17U champion Kappa Magic team, who were one of several playoff victims in the 17U playoffs at the Wide World Of Sports Complex in Orlando FL.

Kappa fell behind 15-0 to First Schaumburg (IL) and were never able to get back into the game, losing 88-77. First Schaumburg had blown an 18-point lead during pool play against Team Richmond, but they were completely in control handling the Kappa full court pressure and knocking down perimeter shots. more. ...

“It just felt right — I just wanted to get it over with.”
July 28, 2003

— Dan Waterstradt
Read full story....

Big Talent At The Global Showcase
July 28, 2003

Despite receiving short shrift from the mainstream hoop media, the inaugural Global Showcase, held earlier this month, introduced a bevy of tomorrow’s future stars to the folks of St. Paul, Minnesota. The three day spectacle featured a collection of top teenage talent from Yugoslavia and Canada, as well as a United States squad powered by three unheralded Minnesotans: Urule Igbavboa, Xavier Crawford, and Jess Becker. more....

17U Nationals Ready For Playoffs
July 28, 2003

ORLANDO, Fla. — With the first two of three stages complete, the 17U Nationals are underway and moving toward Playoff action, which starts on Monday. The 17U Super Showcase is in the bag, with the New York Gauchos having taken home the crown by defeating the Family 79-65, with 20 points from 6-2 WG Russell Robinson of Manhattan (NY) Rice and 16 points from 6-1 WG Sundiata Gaines of Briarwood (NY) Archbishop Malloy. more....

CELTICS CONQUER VEGAS
July 26, 2003

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Punctuating a dominant and breathtaking tournament run, the Atlanta Celtics captured the Big Time Invitational championship. The Celtics not only ravaged their competition in nearly every game, they crushed both rims and morals and now must be weighed in a historical context: Is this the greatest frontline in AAU basketball history?

Our answer: Yes. more....

CERASOLI IS THE STAR OF STARS
July 25, 2003

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Dozens of people flocked to Silverado High School at 9:00 Friday morning to see three likely All-Americans: Shaun Livingston, Daniel Gibson and Jawaan McClellan. But what they got was Justin Cerasoli, and lots of him.

In a tournament bursting at the seams with elite players and hungry upstarts ready to make for themselves, Cerasoli was the most dominant player to take the court Friday. more....

Gauchos And The Family Meet In Finale
July 25, 2003

The 17U Super Showcase Tournament championship will feature the New York Gauchos against The Family. more....

Playoff Action In Orlando
July 24, 2003

With pool play complete, playoff action took a step closer to the championship round during the 17U Super Showcase in Orlando. more....

PLAYOFFS TAKE STAGE IN VEGAS
July 24, 2003

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Day three at the adidas Big Time marked the beginning of the playoff rounds, as 128 teams waged war in the marathon three-day tournament that will crown one winner as champion. Two rounds of the playoffs are finished, with two more to be played tomorrow, and the quarterfinals through championship all taking place Saturday.

One guy who played like he wants to keep balling is Louisville-bound Lorrenzo Wade, who was spectacular on Thursday. more....

Tour: Player Updates
July 24, 2003

One of the top big men in the nation is back on the board.

Ousmane Konate, the Senegal native who has been sidelined for the past six months after breaking his foot, has opened up his recruitment after originally committing to Missouri. more....

“I just want to do what I have to do to get the job done for my team.”
July 23, 2003

— Simon Harris more....

Super Showcase Kicks Off
July 23, 2003

ORLANDO, Fla. — With the first of three events completed at The Wide World of Sports Complex, the 17U Super Showcase took center stage, after the completion of the 16U Showcase wrapped up yesterday. With coaches in full force, action picked up and a number of performers stepped up, trying to impress and earn scholarships. more....

FARMAR LIGHTS UP VEGAS
July 23, 2003

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- Life must be good for Jordan Farmar. The 6-2 PG is a top student and hoopster who already has a scholarship in hand from UCLA, and on Wednesday afternoon he showed why he'll star in the Pac-10.

Farmar pumped in 35 points -- including 10 threes! -- in California Pump N' Run's blowout win over Billy Shepherd Sports. And it isn't as if he took 30 threes in the process, either; he was deadly and efficient, handing out a few shiny dimes and keeping his teammates involved more....

Allen Looking To Elevate Interest
July 23, 2003

Davone Allen has been an unsung, but important member of the Baltimore Bomber team, which has had a nice spring and summer run on the circuit, winning at Penn State earlier during the Charlie Weber event and having a strong showing in Charlottesville VA during the Southern Invitational.

"I want to prove to coaches that I can handle the ball much better than I did last year. ..." more....

CELTICS TOMAHAWK ON DAY ONE
July 22, 2003

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- The Atlanta Celtics' hapless Tuesday victims had to feel like a Vegas gambler who drops thousands at a craps table.

The Celtics rolled sevens in both their games on day one of the Big Time, putting together a full highlight reel of dunks and alley-oops to leave the crowd wanting more -- and their foes ready to call it day. more....

Tour: Plummer Will Fly High
July 22, 2003

Note: Quotes Added July 23, 2003

According to sources close to the situation, Ohio native Norman Plummer will remain in the state and commit to Dayton.

The 6-6, 205-pound combo forward, who led the New England prep school ranks in scoring last year while playing at Brewster Academy (N.H.), doesn’t get much attention during the summer because of his decision to remain with a small AAU club, the Queens City Prophets. more....

TOUR: BENJAMIN PICKS WILDCATS
July 21, 2003

Keith Benjamin nearly followed the same path as another Mount Vernon (N.Y.) star, but when it came down to it, the 6-3 combo guard chose to go his own way.

Benjamin, who attends the same high school as UConn guard Ben Gordon, committed to Villanova in what came down to a two-school race between the Wildcats and the Huskies. more....

JULY MID-POINT RECAP
July 18, 2003

We've reached the eye of the summer recruiting storm, and the Class of 2004 has been everything we'd hoped going into the summer. While players and coaches steal a few days' rest before the evaluation period resumes next Tuesday, here's our quick take on what's transpired so far this summer.

Starting at the top, Robert Swift might be the nation's fastest-rising big man. more....

“He plays hard and loves to play defense. He has a better jump shot than me …”
July 17, 2003

— Lorrenzo Wade, on former teammate Chris Fuller more....

Tour: Boone Likely To Farm Interest
July 17, 2003

Seven-footers are hard to find. Ones with big-time grades are even more rare.

Michael Boone is 7-1 and 240 pounds, has a 3.35 GPA and scored a 1050 on the SAT. The Loma Linda High (Calif.) senior didn't get an invite to either the Nike All-American Camp or the adidas ABCD Camp earlier this month, but he'll get a chance to show coaches his potential next week. more....

WING HOPES TO GET MARKS FOR D
July 17, 2003

Play Saran Wrap defense. That expression sounds wonderfully inspirational, but it is hardly ever carried out at summer events. Unheralded California guard Byron Marks, however, intends to transform the words into action.

"My goal is to play as well as I can, but I would really like to go out and shut someone down," said Marks. more....

Joseph A Summer Surprise
July 17, 2003

Height definitely has its privileges on the basketball court, but it also has few inherent drawbacks, especially if you prefer to play facing the basket. Just ask 6-8 Wolfeboro (NH) Brewster forward Adrian Joseph.

"I think that there is a large misconception that he is a power forward," said Brewster Academy head coach Jason Smith. "He played on the inside in high school, but that was more out of necessity than anything else. Adrian is very skilled." more....

TIGERS, GAUCHOS CONQUER
July 16, 2003

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. -- After two dominant performances in the final round of pool play and quarterfinals, it surprised no one that Al Jefferson was the best player on the court during the Peach Jam semifinal round Wednesday night.

Jefferson's Jackson Tigers figured to have a very tough game against the Houston Hoops, which feature two of the best backcourt players in the nation in Daniel Gibson and Jawaan McClellan. more....

“I’m comfortable ... but there is always room to get better”
July 16, 2003

— Rudy Gay more....

JEFFERSON RULES QUARTERS
July 16, 2003

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. -- He wasn't the No. 1 story at the Peach Jam during pool play, but the quarterfinal round of the playoffs served as a personal showcase for Al Jefferson.

The 6-9 C willed his Jackson Tigers past the Georgia Stars in a tough game, scoring 25 points and ripping down 19 rebounds. Jefferson also blocked five shots and was very efficient, hitting 11-16 from the field. more....

AT CHARLIE WEBER: HAVE GAME, WILL TRAVEL
July 16, 2003

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — One of the more engaging personalities on the club circuit is 6-5, 195-pound JR WG Jose Garcia of Lynchburg (VA) Holy Cross. Garcia, originally from Angola and a U.S. transplant by way of Brussels, Belgium, is well liked by his peers due to his engaging presence, love of the game and inherently upbeat attitude. more....

JUNIORS MAKE IMPACT AT PEACH JAM
July 15, 2003

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. — If Monday's Peach Jam action belonged to the big guys, then Tuesday was ruled by youngsters. The Class of 2005 has taken a beating in recruiting circles so far this summer, so the nation's rising juniors have a lot to prove and certainly did their part Tuesday.

Keith Brumbaugh put on a show Tuesday in North Augusta, and he got a helping hand from teammate Jason Rich. more....

BIG MEN JAM AT PEACH JAM
July 15, 2003

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. — Last week's Nike and ABCD camps were, as always, a showcase for guard-play, but on day one at the Peach Jam it was a revenge of the big men.

Blue-chippers in the post like Al Jefferson, LaMarcus Aldridge, Brian Johnson, Ra'Sean Dickey, Tyler Hansbrough and Greg Oden were involved in their team's offense and able to show their skills to an eager throng of coaches. more....

MIDS RULE AT BLUEGRASS
July 14, 2003

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — There may not have been many elite prospects in abundance at the Kentucky Hoopfest, but there were more than enough mid major type players to satisfy the college coaches trawling for players here.

With the two major shoe camps wrapping up their weeks at the time the Hoopfest kicked off, still there were a few players who did double duty and joined their teams late in Louisville. more....

Lists From The Bluegrass
July 14, 2003

School lists from the Kentucky Hoopfest. more....

WADE PICKS CARDINALS
July 14, 2003

Lorrenzo Wade kept reading about 6-7 Donta Smith after the junior college star committed to Louisville. He figured that there wouldnít be much use in competing with someone in his own class at the same position, so he basically eliminated the Cardinals.

However, everything changed after Louisville head man Rick Pitino called Wade just prior to the 6-5, 190-pound swingman jumped onto a plane from New Jersey back to Las Vegas on Saturday. more....

TOUR: COMMITMENTS TAKE STAGE
July 14, 2003

Joe McCray was a big-time football player and he's going to a big-time football school, but he'll play basketball at Nebraska instead of hitting the gridiron. The former Dillard (Fla.) wing, who will play this season at Laurinburg (N.C.), committed to the Cornhuskers on Sunday - just days after having a solid ABCD Camp.

Elsewhere, Kansas and Memphis have picked up commitments, including Shawne Williams pledging to the Tigers. more....

MIX OF OLD, NEW DRIVES ABCD
July 11, 2003

TEANECK, N.J. -- Heading into the final day of the 2003 adidas ABCD Camp, there have been two discoveries this week: 1) The senior blue-chippers proved their merit long ago and 2) The Class of 2004 has better depth than first believed.

In category No. 1, look no further than Dwight Howard, who could end up the No. 1 player in the Class of 2004. For an example of a player in the second grouping, read about soon-to-be-ranked Andre Blatch. more....

NIKE CAMP WRAP-UP
July 10, 2003

INDIANAPOLIS -- Thursday's play brought a conclusion to the 2003 Nike All-America Camp. For our final installment we've provided some thoughts on a few kids we saw do good things during the course of the week.

These guys aren't necessarily the types that you read about all the time and don't have the flashy reputations, but they deserve some pub of their own. more....

GUARDS RULE AT ABCD
July 10, 2003

TEANECK, N.J. -- After beginning the week at Nike Camp, it took all of 10 minutes Wednesday to spot the major difference between Nike and ABCD: guards. While Nike is loaded with athletic forwards, the shoe monolith's adidas equivalent, the ABCD Camp, is blessed with elite talent and depth at point guard.

For the second time in three years, ABCD has organized the camp to include big-time, head to head match-ups between its top guards. This year's battles include players like Shaun Livingston, Sebastian Telfair, Darius Washington, Jamar Butler, Justin Cerasoli, Josh Wright and Jason Horton. more....

TOUR: IVORY MAKES HIS DECISION
July 10, 2003

The commitments have slowed down lately, but you can take one big man off the board after Anthony Ivory has made a commitment.

The 6-9, 298-pound Ivory, who has sat out the summer thus far because of foot injuries, chose Big East school over Seton Hall, Clemson, East Carolina and Charleston. more....

“I just feel like I fit in with the team at Indiana.”
July 9, 2003

—Josh Smith more....

CRAWFORD DOMINATES AT NIKE
July 9, 2003

INDIANAPOLIS -- On Tuesday afternoon Michigan combo guard Joe Crawford announced that he had de-committed from the University of Michigan. On Wednesday, the 6-4 Crawford absolutely exploded in front of an eager throng of coaches as he continues his assent up the rankings in the Class of 2004.

The setting was a highly anticipated afternoon matchup against a team featuring a terrific trio of guards in Daniel Gibson, Isaiah Swann and Antonio Kellogg. more....

AT ABCD: DAVIS TO FOCUS ON HOOPS
July 9, 2003

TEANECK, N.J. -- Big Baby is done with football. Glen Davis, who has struggled at times at the ABCD Camp, will not play football in his senior season and will instead concentrate solely on basketball.

Davis has shown the power always associated with his game, but top athletes have bothered some of his inside attempts here at ABCD. more....

“I haven't decided what position I want to play.”
July 9, 2003

— Walter Sharpe
Read full story. ...

AT ABCD: HOWARD AND PAYNE MAKE NOISE
July 9, 2003

When Dwight Howard came flying down the lane to demonstratively slam home an offensive rebound, it punctuated a first day that saw him elevate his game above others in attendance. In short, Howard played like a man among boys.

While Howard was showcasing his above the rim game, Kashif Payne made an impression, dominating defensively in his team's game. more....

AT ABCD: BEST GUARD STILL UP FOR GRABS
July 9, 2003

A little over a week ago, Shaun Livingston's performance at the USA Festival in Colorado Springs appeared to settle the issue of who is the best guard in 2004.

By the end of the first game at this year's ABCD Camp, Darius Washington had completely thrown the question back up in the air. more....

AT NIKE: JEFFERSON TEACHES CLASS
July 8, 2003

INDIANAPOLIS -- School was in session Tuesday at the Nike Camp and Al Jefferson was the teacher.

The 6-9 center didn't let a couple of routine distractions — oh, you know, like hundreds of ogling college coaches or a tornado warning — prevent him from dishing out his brand of mentoring to young pup Greg Oden. more....

AT NIKE: BRONSON SET TO COMMIT

INDIANAPOLIS -- Decision day is drawing near for Charles Bronson. The 6-9, 215-pound C/BF at Philadelphia (PA) Lutheran is very close to announcing his college decision.

"I'm planning on getting back after the camp and sitting down with my mom to talk about it," Bronson said. "I'll probably do it before Three Stripes." more ...

“When you play with the best, you tend to step up your level ...”
July 8, 2003

— Jarhon Giddings
Read full story. ...

ABCD Poised To Open
July 8, 2003

The clock is close to striking midnight and in basketball that means the game is on. Participants started arriving in Teaneck NJ on the campus of Fairleigh Dickinson University for Tuesday's opening of the Adidas ABCD Camp.

The stakes are higher now than they were in the spring, when college coaches could only get second-hand reports. more....

TURNER TO MAINE
July 8, 2003

After two disappointing seasons in the desert, 6-2 point guard Ernest Turner traded in the glitz and glamour of UNLV for the placid shores and endless forests of Maine.

Turner is expected to enroll at the University of Maine this fall and sit out the upcoming season before joining the Black Bears in 2004-2005 with two years of eligibility remaining. more....

AT NIKE: IT'S MESS WITH GAY DAY
July 7, 2003

INDIANAPOLIS -- Rudy Gay nearly got the lead of this report Sunday night, and there was no way he was going to be deprived of it two days in a row.

Based strictly on performance, Gay almost unquestionably has been the best player so far at Nike. The 6-7, 204-pound combo forward always has been a top run/jump athlete, and now it appears he's sewn up whatever holes there were in his game. more....

NIKE INTERVIEWS: WHITE MAKES IT OFFICIAL
July 7, 2003

INDIANAPOLIS -- The worst kept secret this week at Nike was D.J. White's imminent commitment to Indiana. The 6-8 BF finally made it official at a Monday press conference, announcing for the Hoosiers and giving Indiana an All-American to add to an already stellar class.

White's official list of finalists also included Alabama and North Carolina, but no other school really had a chance. more....

MCCLELLAN LEADS COMEBACK KIDS
July 6, 2003

INDIANAPOLIS -- The first day of competition at the Nike Camp was a redemption of sorts for several players. Jawaan McClellan, who has a big reputation but disappointed at the Olympic Development Festival, was one of Sunday's major turnaround stories.

When properly motivated, McClellan plays like an All-American and has the ability to carry his team. more....

AT NIKE: PLAYER INTERVIEWS
July 6, 2003

Coming to you live from the Nike Camp, we caught with a handful of players Sunday who shared with us their latest school lists.

From the highest-level prospects to the low, from commitments to underclassmen, everyone has something to play for this week. more....

“... I'm definitely not going to let (the pressure) influence my decision.”
July 5, 2003

— Josh McRoberts
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MEAN STREETS CRUEL TO STARS
July 5, 2003

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- The Georgia Stars had to feel good about their chances of winning the 16-under AAU National Championship. After defeating the touted Dallas Mustangs on Friday night, the Stars waltzed into their semifinal against the small, unheralded Mean Streets crew from Chicagoland.

But Mean Streets took command early and held on late to squeeze out a 68-65 win and delight the crowd for the second consecutive night with a big upset. more....

BRICK'S PRE-SUMMER RANKINGS
July 5, 2003

PrepStars.com proudly introduces Brick Oettinger's pre-summer rankings for the Classes of 2004 and 2005. Familiar faces reside at the top, while new names continue to emerge on both lists.

We've also included the latest school lists for the Class of 2004, and boast over 600 names combined for rising seniors and juniors. more....

UNSUNG HEROES SPUR STARS
July 4, 2003

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- The 16-under AAU National tournament finished up its fifth day Friday, and only four teams remain in contention for the championship. Friday's most anticipated game was the quarterfinal between two of the most loaded 16-under teams in the country: Georgia Stars and Dallas Mustangs.

The Stars feature perhaps the most talented guard in the Class of 2005 in Louis Williams, but it was two other players who made the most difference Friday night. more....

“My top three is Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.”
July 4, 2003

— Louis Williams
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TAR HEELS SNARE WILLIAMS
July 4, 2003

Marvin Williams played the game as well as it can be played. The All-American forward actually committed to North Carolina earlier this week, but entering Friday he'd kept that information air-tight and left everyone guessing whether he'd chosen the Tar Heels, Washington or Arizona.

Word began to leak just prior to Williams' Friday afternoon press conference, before he made his decision official and became Roy Williams' first commitment as UNC head coach. more....

BREWER TO FLORIDA
July 4, 2003

As expected, Florida received a commitment from Corey Brewer, a top-75 WF who had a very good spring and early summer on the traveling circuit.

Brewer, a 6-7 star at Portland (TN) High, is an excellent run/jump athlete who is at his best in a fullcourt setting, something he'll get plenty of experience playing at Florida. more....

“UConn is about all I'm thinking about right now.”
July 4, 2003

— Jermaine Middleton
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MILES COMMITS TO TIDE
July 2, 2003

According to sources, Alabama has picked up their fourth commitment from the Class of 2004 today when 6-4 WG/PG Glenn Miles chose the Crimson Tide.

A top-50 prospect who will play next season at Durham (NC) Mt. Zion, Miles has long been considered a heavy Alabama lean. He joins PG Ron Steele, WG/WF Albert Weber and WF/BF Jean Felix as commitments to play for Mark Gottfried in Tuscaloosa. more....

“I'm too little to play the three, so two is my best position. ...”
July 2, 2003

— Dwayne Day
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TOUR: HARRIS COMMITS TO VOLS
July 2, 2003

South Carolina big man Damion Harris gave Tennessee coach Buzz Peterson a verbal commitment, but itís contingent on one thing.

``My mom wants me to wait until I visit the school in September," said the 6-9, 255-pound rising senior. ``I really like the coaching staff a lot." more....

UNSUNG POINT GUARD SEEKS ATTENTION
July 2, 2003

It's easy sometimes to have a weakness for throwback point guards who possess an innate grasp of chemistry and unselfishness. Brett Loscalzo certainly falls in that class and recognizes his style of game is rare these days.

"My strengths are passing and running the team," Loscalzo told PrepStars.com. "I'm the kind of player that likes to pass first, and that's unheard of today. I like to lead my team and do whatever it takes, a Jason Kidd type." more....

TOUR: JACKSON'S FIVE ALL MAJORS
July 1, 2003

One elite big man from the rising senior class who probably hasn't received the attention he's deserved is Oklahoman Darnell Jackson. The 6-8, 235-pound big forward, who transferred from Northwest Classen to Midwest City (OH) High this past year, is working on his post moves and shot-blocking.

What separates Jackson from most other post guys is the fact that he's only been playing basketball for a few years, and he's made excellent progress during that time. more....

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