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THE HOOPSCOOP Online
Published by The HOOP SCOOP, Inc., P.O. Box 37122, Louisville, KY 40233 Editor & Publisher Clark Francis Email Address: clark@hoopscooponline.com Phone (502) 493-0043 Fax (502) 493-0440 All rights reserved - Copyright 1999

Hot Recruiting Information available for other months June 1998 July 1998 August 1998 September 1998 October 1998 November 1998 December 1998 January 1999 February 1999 March 1999 April 1999 May 1999 June 1999

Friday, April 30, 1999

Our source yesterday morning was right on the money about Mike Bradley and Ryan Hogan both transferring. Yesterday afternoon the University of Kentucky announced that both have been given their official release, which means they are free to talk to other schools. However, a lot of people haven't picked up on the fact that Bradley's transfer may be a strong indicator that Jamaal Magloire will likely return. If you will recall, previously we thought that Magloire was leaning towards declaring for the NBA draft, but after several workouts with NBA teams, he's been told that he will likely go in the 18-20 range of the first round. However, if he waits another year, he will likely be a lottery pick. Therefore, it will be interesting to see if he makes the same mistake Nazr Mohammed made a year ago or whether he returns for his senior season. Our guess is that we will be back! And as long as we're on the subject of transfers, we're also hearing that Todd Tackett may transfer from Kentucky this spring (perhaps to Marshall), but right now that only speculation.

Our Mid-South Editor Jim Rothman tells us that 6'7 Alonzo Lane from Canton (H.S.) MS has finally decided on a school. If you will recall, he committed to Mississippi State several different times, but later reneged on each occasion. More recently people in the know thought Lane would probably end up at Ole Miss, but that didn't happen either. Instead, Lane signed with Arkansas, which is a major surprise! And apparently it was messy in the end - Lane was reported to have postponed his decision several times due threatening phone calls.

Having in lived in Louisville, KY most of my life, you'd better have a pretty darn good reason to get me out of town the weekend of the Kentucky Derby. Well, Bill Hensley, who is the tournament director of the Spiece Run 'N Slam All-Star Classic in West Lafayette, IN, which will be begin tonight at 6:00 PM and run through Sunday afternoon, has done exactly that each of the last three years. As a matter of fact, except for the adidas ABCD and NIKE All-American camps in July, nobody runs a better event or has more talent at their event all year around. And forget about the Kentucky-Indiana All-Star Game and/or the Indiana State High School Tournament, whose attendance has dwindled to next to nothing since they adopted class basketball two years ago. This is the biggest basketball weekend of the year in Indiana! It's also a great way to get a head start on the summer camp season. Hensley has 64 teams in the Seniors-To-Be Division, 48 Teams in the Juniors-To-Be Division, and 24 teams in the Sophomores to be Division. He also had to turn away another 40-plus teams, because he only had access to nine sites and 25 courts. Pool play starts tomorrow night at 7:00 PM and runs through 11:30 PM. Then the endurance contest for scouts begins Saturday morning, as pool play resumes at 8:00 AM and runs through 5:00 PM. That's when we go back to our hotel room and provide you with some highlights and watch the Derby on television. Then, at 7:00 PM the playoffs begin. Once again we'll probably get out of the gym at close to midnight and return at 8:00 AM Sunday morning, because the winners bracket games all begin bright and early at that time. And we'll be there again all day until the championship is decided sometime late Sunday afternoon. Then that night we'll post all the highlights right here in the Members Section. The 16 different pools in the Seniors-To-Be Division will include: 1A) Spiece Believers I; 1B) Friends of Hoop-Black; 1C) St. Louis Mustangs; 1D) Championship Sports; 2A) Salt Lake Metro; 2B) Spiece North Stars; 2C) Tallahassee Wildcats; 2D) Rocktown; 3A) Massachusetts Wildcats; 3B) D.B.S. Icons; 3C) Team Illinois Hawks; 3D) Los Angeles Rockfish; 4A) Cincinnati AAU #1; 4B) S.Y.F. Players; 4C) Howard-Pulley-Blue; 4D) Gateway Basketball; 5A) Tiffany's; 5B) Minnesota Magic Heat; 5C) Boo Williams Summer League; 5D) Northern Cincy AAU; 6A) Camp Exposure Spirit; 6B) Howard Pulley-Black; 6C) Alabama Ice; 6D) Bray Center Nike; 7A) Arizona Blue; 7B) Martin Brothers Select; 7C) Illinois Warrior-A-Butler; 7D) Evansville AAU; 8A) Illinois Warriors-B-Butler; 8B) 4-D Stars; 8C) Sam Rines Team Philly; 8D) Georgia Hawks; 9A) Playground Warriors; 9B) Illinois Warriors B-Ball Club; 9C) Grand Rapids Storm; 9D) Illinois Fire; 10A) Team Kansas Strykers-Berry; 10B) The Challenge; 10C) Bloomington Red; 10D) Columbus Basketball Club; 11A) Cincinnati AAU #2; 11B) Waterloo Wildhawks; 11C) Albany City Rocks; 11D) Bloomington Blaze; 12A) All-Ohio; 12B) Double Pump; 12C) St. Louis Eagles; 12D) Georgia Stars; 13A) Houston Hoops; 13B) Team Texas; 13C) Friends of Hoop-Orange; 13D) Arizona Black; 14A) Spiece South Stars; 14B) Chicago Demons; 14C) Peterson Engineering; 14D) Tim Thomas Playaz; 15A) Cincinnati AAU #3; 15B) Learning Exchange Wildcats; 15C) Michigan Mustangs; 15D) Houston Super Stars; 16A) Metro East Warriors; 16B) Score More Athletic Club; 16C) Spiece Believers 2; and 16D) Indiana Select.

The latest word on Morgan Wootten is that he will eventually retire during the off-season, although I would not bet money on the date. We have heard from three sources that Joe Wootten will take 6'2 sophomore Billy Edelin to Falls Church (Bishop O'Connell) VA next year. One of the sources goes so far as to say that Edelin, 6'9 Soph Jordan Collins, and 6'8 Frosh Travis Garrison will all be playing for O'Connell next year. The Garrison kid is special - the best young kid in the DeMatha program. The younger Wootten also is expected to get the best 8th grader in Northern Virginia. This kid was supposedly good enough to play varsity for DeMatha next year like Keith Bogans did as a freshman, Wootten could be very competitive in a hurry if he gets these kids, but probably cannot win the league because there are no complementary players to these studs presently at O'Connell. Also many people question Wootten's actual ability to coach and O'Connell is on the complete other side of town. I cannot imagining these folks leaving, unless Wootten's legandary father is retiring. We do have one source who says Morgan will coach two more years. Morgan supposedly is interested in coaching again only because he wants to secure the record for all-time wins. As long as we're talking about players in the the DC area, the Washington Post is reporting that 6'7 Soph Levi Watkins from Laurel (St. Vincent Pallotti) MD will play his junior year for former Stu Vetter assistant Kevin Sutton at Rockville (Montrose Christian) MD. This will be Watkins third high school in three years and it cold have been four. He played at Frederick (Thomas Johnson) MD his freshman year. He had planned to play his sophomore year for Vetter and Sutton at Frederick (Prospect Hall) MD before the Damien Wilkins incident eventually ended Vetter's tenure at the Hall. Also Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim apparently has been talking to the Washington Wizards and George Washington signed 5'8 Bernard Barrow of Kilgore (JC) TX. Barrow was named all conference in the Texas Eastern Conference and led the league with 8.9 assists.

Thursday, April 29, 1999

We talked to Pittsfield (Maine Central Institute) ME head coach Max Good this morning and he does not confirm that he is taking an assistant coaching job at UNLV. He does confirm that he has been offered jobs at both UNLV and Rhode Island, but also leaves open the possibility that he could remain at Maine Central Institute. Remember, Good is 57 years old and he's built MCI into what is arguably the premier high school and/or prep school program in the nation in recent years. He's also got Caron Butler and Avery Queen both returning next year and he hasn't even started recruiting for next year. As a result, we think it's going to be a tough to leave and if he does, deciding between UNLV and Rhode Island could be even more difficult.

Jeff Picoro, who has a sports talk radio-show in Northern Kentucky, is reporting that Mike Bradley and Tayshaun Prince are both transferring from the University of Kentucky and it may happen as soon as today. However, our sources tell us that Picoro is only half right. The word we're getting is that if Bradley transfers, Jamaal Magloire, who has been talking about declaring hardship for the NBA draft, will stay. If Bradley does transfer the early favorites may be Ohio State, Massachusetts, and Virginia. As for Prince, our sources tell us it would be a major surprise if he leaves. Instead, we hear it's Ryan Hogan. Also of note to Kentucky fans, the Wildcats have lost out on 6'7 Anthony Evans from Neosho County (JC) KS, who has signed the University of Georgia. Georgia also has given 7'1 Nathan Popp from Lexington (Catholic) KY, who was signed by the old regime last fall, his release. Popp will have to sit out next year as a transfer, but that shouldn't be a problem, because he was planning on red-shirting anyway. Apparently Popp wasn't confortable with the new head coach Jim Harrick, despite the fact Harrick retained assistant coaches Michael Hunt and Reggie Rankin.

Several days ago we reported that Duke was making a last ditch effort to get 6'6 LaVell Blanchard from Pioneer (Ann Arbor) MI, who ranks #8 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP, and this was true. However, we now have confirmed that he has told the Duke coaching staff that nobody else can get involved. As a result, it looks like a two race race between Michigan and Virginia. California also still has a shot, but it's a long shot. However, don't look for an official announcement until Mothers' Day, Sunday, May 9th. Our New York Editor Ron Naclerio tells us that 6'2 Luis Flores from New York (Norman Thomas) NY has picked Rutgers over George Washington and he also predicts that 6'8 Uke Agbai from Briarwood (Archbishop Molloy) NY will sign with Boston College. Speaking of Boston College, our Philadelphia Area Editor Allen Rubin tells us that the Eagles have signed 6'10 Erik Witt from Germany. Rubin also tells us that 6'7 Mike Tompson from New Zealand via Brigham Young, who has just returned from a mission, is transferring to Rutgers. He'll take Billy Collins' scholarship. According to Rubin, Collins is transferring to Boston University.

Wednesday, April 28, 1999

Our Mid-South Correspondent Jim Rothman tells us that 6'3 Courtney Trask from Baton Rouge (Parkview Baptist) LA, who ranks #140 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP, will commit later today to the University of Memphis. This is will give Memphis recruits in the class, because 6'10 Earl Barron from Clarksdale (H.S.) MS, 6'6 Immanuel McElroy from Tyler (JC) TX, and 6'6 Shannon Foreman from Northwest Mississippi (JC) MS are already in the fold. Our Philadelphia Area Editor Allen Rubin is reporting that Drexel has finally gotten 5'11 Ashley Howard from Drexel Hill (Monsignor Bonner) PA and 6'5 Josh Graham from Flemingsburg (Fleming County) KY, who is ranked #12 in the state of Kentucky, has signed with Virginia Commonwealth. Bob Gibbons of All-Star Sports, is reporting that 6'3 Paul McPherson from Kennedy-King (JC) IL, who ranks as the #1 junior college player in the nation by Phil Henzel, has signed with DePaul. This is huge, because DePaul's class, which was ranked #22 nationally last fall when they signed 6'11 Steve Hunter from Maywood (Proviso East) IL, 6'8 John Oden from Phoenix (Carl Hayden) AZ, 6'2 George Baker from Lexington (Dunbar) KY, and 6'2 Joe Tulley from Rockford (Boylan) IL, could move as high as top 10 this spring. I am reporting that 6'7 Soph Samuel Nadeau, who ranks as the #16 sophomore in the nation, is transferring from Newark (East Side) NJ and that he will likely end up at that basketball factory in Virginia - Mouth of Wilson (Oak Hill) VA. We are also confirming that Louisville finally receieved the National letter-of-intent this morning from 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI.

Dave Schultz of the HOOP SCOOP is reporting that Princeton has gotten two excellent commitments from 6'8 Cameron Carr from West Linn (H.S.) OR, who ranks #259 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP, and 6'3 Kyle Wente from Effingham (St. Anthony) IL, who is such a big sleeper that Roy and Harv Schmidt of the Illinois Prep Bulls-Eye Report don't even have him ranked on their list of seniors in the state of Illinois. However, Schultz tells us that Wente averaged 26 ppg and was the MVP in a Christmas Tournament in Illinois back in December. Schultz also tells us that 6'6 Spencer Golger from Rancho Santa Margarita (Santa Margarita) CA committed in the fall to Princeton under the early admissions program, but they are still working out the financial aid package and, as a result, he is still be recruited by a number of schools out West. However, we still think Princeton will get him in the end. Schultz also tells us that it looks like 5'11 Soph Tony Tate from Jersey City (St. Anthony) NJ won't be bailing out on the legendary Bob Hurley, Sr after all. "There is no way that Tate will transfer to Marist High School in Bayonne, NJ," says Schultz. "And I don't see him transferring to Elizabeth St. Patrick, because they're probably going to get 5'9 Michael Nardi from Souel Middle School in Linden, NJ. He's only in 8th grade, but we met him two weeks ago and the word is that he'll be the next Bobby Hurley. So unless he wants to transfer to Paterson Catholic or move, there aren't a lot of other choices."

Two weeks ago we thought 6'2 Luis Flores from New York (Norman Thomas) NY, who ranks #11 in New York City by Ron Naclerio and #211 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP, was a near lock for Manhattan. However, it appears that the schools that were recruiting him - Manhattan, Canisius, Hofstra, Drexel, and Duquesne - aren't good enough for him. Instead, now it looks like a two horse race between Rutgers and George Washington. However, we predict he will transfer to one of the schools on his original list when he finds out he's not good enough to be more than a good role player in the Big East. However, Rutgers coach Kevin Bannon apparently is willing to take a chance on keeping him happy, because Rutgers has bailed out on 6'4 Trey Ferguson from Hoover (H.S.) AL, despite the fact Ferguson was on campus last weekend.

The list for 6'8 Uka Agbai from Briarwood (Archbishop Molloy) NY includes Boston College, William & Mary, Iona, Siena, Columbia, Rider, but Rider got a commitment last week from 6'10 Robert Reed from Bayonne (Marist) NJ and they had 6'9 Adam Chubb from Harrisburg (Susquenhanna Township) PA in for a visit this past weekend. So we suspect Rider is out! Rider also has a commitment from 6'3 Alwyn Curtis from Troy (Redemption) NY. Long Island University has a commitment from 6'6 JaJa Bey from Cheshire (Academy) CT, 6'3 Feron McGee from Neptune (H.S.) NJ plans to go to prep school at Oakdale (St. Thomas More) CT, and 6'11 Kevin Garrity from Edison (Wardlaw-Hartridge) NJ is planning to go to a 5th year of high school at either Princeton (Hun) NJ and Solebury (Prep) PA.

Tuesday, April 27, 1999

Patrick Jira of the Recruiting Beat tells us that 6'1 Jabrahn Ike from Minneapolis (St. Anthony) MN, who was being recruited by Penn State, Clemson, and Seton Hall, has elected to go the junior college route. He's signed with Southeastern (JC) IA. Jira also tells us that 6'6 Marcus Jefferson from Fitchburg (Notre Dame) MA will likely commit to Providence later this week and that 6'6 Derick Payne from Washington (Coolidge) DC is talking about attending prep school at Pittsfield (Maine Central Institute) ME. This isn't the first time Payne has talked about going to MCI. A year ago Maine Central Institute head coach Max Good decided not to take Payne, because he needed too many hours to be able to graduate in just one year. It's not 100% yet, but Jira is right when he predicts that 5'9 Rashon Burno from Elizabeth (St.Patrick) NJ, who is one of the best unsigned point guards still available, will be going to prep school next year at Oakdale (St. Thomas More) CT.

Seton Hall has gotten a commitment from 6'7 Kevin Wilkins from Tallahassee (JC) FL and today Duke is expected to sign 5'11 Andre Buckner from Hopkinsville (University Heights) KY. This is a huge story, because it's not very often that the Blue Devils sign the #81 ranked player in any state. As a matter of fact, Buckner only got three votes for the Louisville Courier-Journal's all-state team in Kentucky and the only other offer he had was by a junior college. Also very interesting is the fact that Western Kentucky head coach Dennis Felton was the guy who signed Buckner's older brother, Greg Buckner, at Clemson. However, Felton has no interest in the younger Buckner. That ought to tell you something right there. We also have confirmed that West Virginia has gotten 6'5 Keith Kincade from Compton (Dominguez) CA, Fairleigh Dickinson has landed 6'5 Keith Martin from Lackewanne (JC) PA, and 7'1 Jared Houston is transferring from William & Mary to Penn State. We reported a while ago that 6'11 Eric Williams was transferring from Syracuse and it looks like he will pick either Iona or Providence. James Madison has gotten 6'3 Mickey Dennis from North Dakota-Williston (JC) ND, who ranks among junior college players by #181 by Phil Henzel.

We have not confirmed that the University of Louisville has received the national letter-of-intent from 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI, but on WLKY Channel-32 in Louisville this morning Cardinals head coach Denny Crum did say that he talked with Gaines' mother at 5:15 AM this morning and that her son has signed the national letter and that she planned to fax it to Louisville today. We also have not confirmed that 6'5 Kareem Rush from Kansas City (Pembroke Hill) MO has signed with Missouri. He was supposed to make an official announcement yesterday, but the press conference was cancelled and no announcement has been forthcoming. As a result, were are still listing Rush as undecided between Missouri and UCLA. Also last night we heard that 6'5 Antonio Jackson from Butler County (JC) KS had made up his mind and a commitment to Alabama would be forthcoming as soon as yesterday or today. However, as of 7:40 P.M. tonight nothing had been announced. Based on past history, why are we not surprised that all three of these guys continue to beat around the bush?

Our Ohio Editor Chris Johnson tells us that Buckeyes junior Scoonie Penn had a press conference today and announced that he will return to Ohio State for his senior season next year. Alabama is waiting on 6'5 Antonio Jackson, but if they don't get him, look for the Crimson Tide to get 6'3 Derrick Zimmerman from Monroe (Gossman) LA, although Mississippi State, Tulane, LSU, Texas, Villanova, and Arkansas are all among the schools still on his list. As expected, Toledo has gotten a commitment from 6'2 Rory Jones from Casper (JC) WY and the may also get 6'5 Teddy Maizeroi from Bridgton (Academy) ME. We have an unconfirmed report that Duke is trying to get involved with 6'6 LaVell Blanchard from Ann Arbor (Pioneer) MI, who ranks #9 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP. If this is true, it would provide even further confirmation that Corey Maggette plans to declare hardship for the NBA draft.

Frank Burlison of the Orange County Register is reporting that 6'11 Kosta Charissis from Greece took official visits to USC over the weekend and Miami-FL yesterday and he is expected to decide between the two in the near future. Burlison also is reporting that Southern Cal is one of the leaders for 6'9 Ajmal Basit, who is transferring from the University of Massachusetts, and that 6'2 Marlon Parmer from Los Angeles (Verbum Dei) CA is expected to pick USC, Michigan, or UNLV later this week. What's the latest on whether UCLA point guard Baron Davis will declare hardship for the NBA draft? Burlison thinks is gone, but other sources on the West Coast aren't so sure. We'll see soon enough, because the deadline to enter your name into the NBA draft is May 16th.

Our Philadelphia Area Editor Allen Rubin tells us that Duquesne head coach Darelle Porter has stolen one in 6'3 Kevin Forney from Philadelphia (Christian) PA, who ranks #2 among prep school and 5th year players in the Philadelphia Area. "It's always tough to get quality players out of Philly," says Rubin. "Forney will provide Duquesne with instant offense, because he can score from anywhere on the court. He's also a good athlete and a better than average defender, but he needs to become more team oriented."

Monday, April 26, 1999

It's hasn't been officially announced yet, but the HOOP SCOOP has now confirmed that 6'5 Antonio Jackson from Butler County (JC) KS, who ranks among the top five junior college players in the nation, will commit to the University of Alabama. This is huge for the Crimon Tide, because it elevates their recruiting class into the #2 position nationally behind Duke and ahead of Florida and Cincinnati. If you will recall, Alabama's recruiting class, which includes 6'7 Rod Grizzard from Birmingham (Central Park Christian) AL, 6'8 Erwin Dudley from Uniontown (R.C. Hatch) AL, 6'9 Kenny Walker from Jacksonville (Wolfson) FL, 6'2 Terrance Meade from Scottsboro (H.S.) AL was ranked #12 nationally last fall and it moved into a tie for second with Cincinnati with the addition of 6'5 Schea Cotton from Long Beach City (JC) CA two weeks ago. Then it dropped back to third when Florida last week got 6'7 Donnell Harvey from Cuthbert (Randolph Clay) GA, who ranks as the #1 senior in the nation by the HOOP SCOOP. Now with the addition of Jackson, Alabama's move back up to #2 and the Crimson Tide's recruiting class could actually move ahead of Duke, if they sign 6'9 Marcus Haislip from Lewisburg (Marshall County) TN. Right now Haislip's list includes Alabama, Tennessee, Memphis, and Kentucky, which is where he's been the last several days making an official visit. Getting back to Jackson, Alabama makes perfect sense, because Louisville now has a commitment from 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI and Mississippi State got a commitment a week ago from 6'2 Jason Pryor from Gulf Coast (JC) FL and Greedy Daniels is transferring from Memphis to Mississippi State. If you're thinking Pryor committed earlier to LSU, you're right! But apparently he didn't sign the national letter-of-intent with the Tigers. However, most people don't know it yet, because Mississippi State has a habit of keeping their commitments under wraps. Remember, nobody knew that 6'5 Jamario Moon from Rockford (Coosa Central) AL committed to Alabama until January, even though he signed a national letter-of-intent in November. Also, the commitments by 6'5 Ontario Harper from Winchendon (School) MA and 7'1 Raynell Brewer from Mississippi Gulf Coast (JC) MS were very slow to be reported.

U.A.B. also got a major commitment today from 6'5 Marcus Kimbrough from Pensacola (JC) FL, who sat out this past year, but was one of the best junior college players in the nation the year before. Some scouts didn't like Kimbrough in high school, because he was really an undersized power forward, but he's great in transition, has a great body and surprising athleticism, which should allow him to instantly become one of the better rebounders in Conference USA next year. We have confirmed that 6'5 Kareem Rush from Kansas City (Pembroke Hill) MO committed to Missouri last Friday, but we have yet to hear whether he has signed a national letter-of-intent. The same is true with 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI, who committed to Louisville on Saturday. It's not official yet, but the word we're getting is that 6'7 Alesander Pavlovich from Severn (Archbishop Spalding) MD will commit later this week to La Salle. Towson State has a commitment from 6'1 Brian Allen from Cape May Court House (Middle Township) NJ, Florida International is getting 6'8 Cisse Abdeckodre from Philadelphia (Christian) PA, and 6'6 Jim Roban from Dixie (JC) UT has gone to San Diego State. We also are looking for 5'11 Ashley Howard from Drexel Hill (Monsignor Bonner) PA to commit to Drexel. Ronnie Griffin, the 6'9 power forward who left Eastern Kentucky in January, has surfaced at Tallahassee (JC) FL and the word is that he's really got his act together. Hopefully it's true this time, because he's running out of time.

Our Ohio Editor Chris Johnson tells us that the word in Chicago is that 6'10 Leon Smith from Chicago (Martin Luther King) IL plans to declare hardship for the NBA draft. We reported a week ago that we thought Duke's Corey Maggette would probably return to Duke next season, but now we are retracting that prediction. The word we're getting from a number of different sources is that he's not going to class, he's been spending a lot of time in Chicago, IL (which is where he's from), and he may have already gotten something from an agent. If Maggette follows Elton Brand and William Avery into the NBA draft in June and Chris Burgess transfers, the Blue Devils would be in serious trouble, except for the fact they have the #1 recruiting class in the nation waiting in the wings. Speaking of Duke's recruiting, we continue to get reports that Duke has offered 5'10 Andre Buckner from Hopkinsville (University Heights) KY, who averaged 13 ppg and five assists per game. Unfortunately, he's not the sleeper that his brother, Greg Buckner, was when he signed with Clemson. Instead, the younger brother ranks no higher than #81 in the state by our Kentucky Editor Larry Kihnley. He's a great athlete, but he's more of a wing forward than a point guard, which is what the Duke needs. Apparently the Blue Devils were caught off guard when Avery announced that he's going pro and there simply aren't any point guards left available. Duke wanted to get involved with 6'1 Rick Jones from Georgetown (Scott County) KY and 6'2 Sean Harrington from Elgin (H.S.) IL, but they were too late. Remember, Avery announced his decision about the same time that Jones committed to Vanderbilt and Harrington committed to Illinois. The word we're getting is that Duke wants somebody who can at least bring the ball up the court if something happens to 6'2 Jason Williams from Metuchen (St. Joseph) NJ, because he'll be only guy who can do that in the program next year. However, Kihnley tells us that Buckner is not even close to being the answer. As a matter of fact, to our knowledge, Buckner has no other Division I offers. He wasn't all state and he wasn't one of the 35 players invited to play in the Kentucky-Indiana All-Star Game tryout.

We continue to hear talk about 6'11 Samuel Dalembert from Elizabeth (St. Patrick) NJ not honoring his commitment to Seton Hall - remember he committed to the Pirates in the fall, but has yet to sign a national letter-of-intent. But when we asked him if he was thinking about going someplace else at the Derby Classic Saturday night, he was surprised. He said he was going to Seton Hall. Speaking of players from St. Patrick High School at Seton Hall, our New York City Editor Ron Naclerio tells us that he's heard rumors about Shaheen Holloway transferring, despite the fact he's a junior and only has one year of college eligibility left. The schools Naclerio mentioned were DePaul and Kansas, but what about New Mexico for both Holloway and Dalembert? What's the connection? The word we're getting is that Danny Waedleton, who is an assistant coach at St. Patrick, may become a graduate assistant at New Mexico. And remember, New Mexico head coach Fran Fraschilla did a great job of recruiting both Dalembert and Al Harrington when he was at St. John's a year ago. As a matter of fact, St. Patrick head coach Kevin Boyle tells us that the Red Storm probably would have gotten Dalembert, if Fraschilla was still at St. John's. Boyle also tells us that the chances of Holloway and Dalembert both ending up at New Mexico with Waedleton are slim and none.

Sunday, April 25, 1999

The Louisville Courier-Journal is reporting that 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI, who ranks #45 nationally and who can play either guard spot, has picked the University of Louisville over Maryland and that "he sign the national letter-of-intent after returns home, possibly as soon as today." Actually our sources, who are very close to the Louisville program, tell us that he plans to sign with Louisville at his high school tomorrow. However, don't edge it in , stone just yet.  Remember, this is the kid who told folks who run the Capital Classic that he was planning on making an announcement regarding his college decision in conjunction with their game. Then, a week later, he told the Maryland coaching staff that he was going to sign with Maryland. At least now, if he changes his mind again, everybody will know that he has reneged. Louisville also appears to be going right down to the wire with 6'5 Antonio Jackson from Butler County (JC) KS, who ranks among the top five junior college players in the nation. Neither Gaines or Jackson are the talented pure point guard that Louisville has been looking for, but they are both big guards who would interchangeable at both the one and the two spots. And, if you will recall, this worked pretty well for the Cardinals in the late '70s and early '80s when they had players like Rick Wilson, Darrell Griffith, Jerry Eaves, Lancaster Gordon and Milt Wagner.

The Purple beat the White 138-132 last night in the GTE Wireless Derby Festival Basketball Classic last night at Freedom Hall, thanks to the efforts of 6'7 Travis Watson and 6'6 Ronald Slay, both from Mouth of Wilson (Oak Hill) VA, who combined for 41 points and 32 rebounds. Slay also won the Slam Dunk Contest and Watson took home game MVP honors, but the player who impressed us the most was 6'7 Derek Smith from Ft. Thomas (Highlands) KY.  He had 21 points, six rebounds, and seven assists, as he reinforced why we already rank him as the #1 player in the senior class in Kentucky. Actually we have him ranked too low.  We need to move him into our top 50 nationally and Kentucky freshman Tayshaun Prince had better up his game dramatically in the future or run the risk of getting beat out by this guy. Smith, who also finished second in the 3-point shooting contest and showed surprising quickness and finesse for somebody his size, is that good. Obviously, this explains why Wildcats head coach Tubby Smith is willing to let him join the basketball team after football season is over. Keeping the game close for the White All-Stars was 6'6 Casey Jacobsen from Glendora (H.S.) CA, who was the leading scorer in the game with 28 points. He's not a great athlete, but he's a great basketball player due to his expectional skills, tremendous understanding of the game, and great outside shooting. Also playing well for the White Team were 6'5 Jamal Crawford from Seattle (Rainier Beach) WA and 6'8 Benjamin Eze Ndubiusi from Nigeria via Toronto, ON, who had 10 points, eight rebounds, and did a great defensive job on 6'10 Marvin Stone in the first half. Speaking of Stone, he has great moves to the basket and has amazing skills for somebody his size. Although he showed flashes, Stone only had 12 points and 10 rebounds. However, the sky is the limit, because, like they say, you can't teach size. His nickname is "Tree," but he's more like a mountain. Among the surprises were 6'10 Robertas Javtokas from Akron (St. Vincent-St. Mary) OH, who is surprisingly mobile and none mechanical for player originally from Eastern European. He doesn't overpower you, but he's good on the boards, blocks shots, and passes extremely well for somebody his size. The stats for the Derby Classic can be found by clicking on Coverage.

Saturday, April 24, 1999

If you can believe what we've heard at the Derby Classic practices last night and today in Louisville, KY, the University of Louisville could be on the verge of a big recruiting class. We've already mentioned that 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI has been hinting that he may make an announcement this weekend while he's in town for the game. He even went to far as to mention to us that he might announce his decision tonight at the game during the player introductions, but since he isn't playing in the game due to the two all-star game rule (he's already played in two game this spring and is being held out to ensure his NCAA eligibility next year), we doubt if he will get any kind of introduction. Instead, maybe he'll do it on radio. However, he also hinted that he was going to Maryland two weeks ago when he was at the Capital Classic in Washington, DC. So who really knows. Our guess is that if he picks Louisville, he'll do it today.  If he leaves town without making a commitment, the pendulum would likely swing back to Maryland. While Gaines isn't saying where he's going, 6'7 Mikeal Hadiri from Chicago (Lincoln Park) IL and 6'8 Ben Eze Ndubuisi from Nigeria via Toronto, ON both told us last night that they're going to Louisville. However, we aren't ready to announce either of these as verbal commitments, because neither knew who we were and we suspect both simply thought they were talking to fans. As a result, they may have been telling us what we wanted to hear. Ndubuisi also mentioned that he really likes Michigan and that Miami-FL, Houston, UCLA, Georgia Tech, and Kentucky are also among the many schools that have been recruiting him. While Ndubuisi isn't ready to be the #1 player in the NBA draft, he does have tremendous potential and incredible quickness and athleticism around the basket. He also has great hands and is very explosive going to the basket. He does need a year or two of college, but down the road he has the talent and potential to be a top five pick in the NBA draft. We obviously didn't get to see the other two Nigerians - 7'0 Uche Okafor and 6'11 Muhamed Lesage - who are also in town to make an unofficial visit to Louisville and watch their teammate in the game, but Louisville is in the picture for both. Okafor says that he's considering Auburn, UCLA, Ohio State, Houston, Tennessee, and Louisville. Lesage likes Houston, Auburn, and Louisville. However, the inquiry sign is still up, as sources tell us that the NCAA is investigating the recruitment of all three Nigerians. Also, getting the necessary score and clearance by the NCAA Clearing House to be eligible at a four-year school are other questions that have yet to be answered. Louisville also appears to be in the final five now, along with Valparaiso, Arizona, Utah, and Tulane, for 6'10 Robertas Javtockas from Akron (St. Vincent-St. Mary) OH and the Cardinals may now be the co-favorite, along with Alabama, for 6'5 Antonio Jackson from Butler County (JC) KS, who ranks among the top five junior college players in the nation. If Louisville gets Jackson, Gaines, and Ndubuisi, their recruiting class would not only be a top 10 class in the nation and, as a result, their program would take a major step toward moving back into the elite teams in college basketball. However, if they only get Hadiri and one of the other two Nigerians to go along 6'8 Joe Sykes from Radcliff (North Hardin) KY and 6'1 Rashad Brooks from Cecil (JC) MD, who have already signed, the program could be in big trouble. In otherwords, it's make or break time for the Cardinals!

Several days ago we got a list of the top 300 junior college players from Phil Henzel, who has been covering JUCO's for years, and there are a number of interesting things worth pointing out. First, 6'5 Schea Cotton from Long Beach City (JC) CA, who recently signed with Alabama, didn't even make the list. He should easily be among the top 10 and probably the top five. Speaking of the top five or 10, guess who the #1 player is? We liked 6'3 Paul McPherson from Kennedy-King (JC) IL in high school, because he was incredible in transition and has few peers in any dunking contest, but we doubt he's improved his handling skills and outside shooting enough to be the #1 junior college player in the nation. But after that, the list is pretty good. The rest of the top dozen in order includes 6'5 Terry Black from Indian Hills (JC) IA, 7'3 Aleksandar Radojevic from Barton County (JC) KS, 6'2 Jamaal Tinsley from Mt. San Jacinto (JC) CA, 6'1 Trent Whiting from Snow (JC) UT, 6'5 Antonio Jackson from Butler County (JC) KS, 6'2 Kenny Dye from Connors State (JC) OK, 6'6 Rob Griffin from Southeastern (JC) IA, 6'9 Marcus Griffin from Lincoln (JC) IL, 6'4 Michael Hicks from Bacone (JC) OK, and 6'11 Kimani Ffriend from Gulf Coast (JC) FL, and 6'9 Rudy Williams from Dixie (JC) UT.  As is stands now McPherson, Jackson, and Dye are still available, but everybody else has signed or committed. Black is going to Baylor, Radojevic signed early with Ohio State. Tinsley is heading to Iowa State and Whiting picked Utah a week ago. Rob Griffin is bound for Iowa, while Marcus Griffin has re-signed with Illinois. Hicks is the guy they will build the program around at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Ffriend is going to Nebraska and Williams is a steal for Long Beach State. We also found interesting the fact that Iowa State signed three players who rank among Henzel's top 30 in Tinsley at #4, 6'4 Richard Evans from Kilgore (JC) TX at #17, and 6'0 Thomas Watkins from Mesa (JC) AZ at #26. We were also kind of surprised that 6'5 James Zimmerman from Indian Hills (JC) IA was ranked no higher than #96, but UNC-Charlotte's other junior college signee - 6'8 Kenkay Singletary from Cuesta (JC) CA ranks #21. Also of interest - 6'4 Lamont Roland from Barton County (JC) KS was ranked #18. That's about right! Kentucky recruit 6'10 Nate Knight from Utah Valley (JC) UT is #31. That's too high! And Virgina recruit 6'8 Stephane Don Don from Collins County (JC) TX ranks #164. That's way too low! And Louisville recruit 6'1 Rashad Brooks from Cecil (JC) MD ranks no higher than #139 nationally. We haven't seen Brooks and really don't know where Brooks ranks, but we find it interesting!

Friday, April 23, 1999

Our Ohio Editor Chris Johnson tells us that there is a major recruiting battle going on between Iowa and Iowa State for 6'3 Jeff Horner from Mason City (H.S.) IA. Horner's father, Bob Horner, says that his son is much further advanced than another one of his former players, Dean Oliver, was at the same stage. Horner took an unofficial visit to Iowa State in March and he was at the University of Iowa last weekend. This is really important, because just like Oliver, who committed Iowa as a sophomore in high school, Horner is on the verge of making the earliest commitments ever - right now he's just a freshman in high school. Our prediction is that he will announce for Iowa sometime within the next several days.

The original list for 6'8 Ryan Humphrey included Kentucky, UCLA, and North Carolina, but now it looks like he wants to be more of a big fish in a smaller pound. He visited Pittsburgh last weekend, which makes sense, because his brother played football there and he considered the Panthers the first time around. However, the word we're getting is that his visit didn't go well, so we'd be surprised if he goes there. He visits Notre Dame this weekend and that might be the perfect place for him, because they have a hard time recruiting players with his size, skills, and athleticism. He also plans to visit Virginia, which also would be a great choice, because he could be the final piece to their puzzle, along with 6'6 LaVell Blanchard from Ann Arbor (Pioneer) MI, who ranks #9 nationally among seniors by the HOOP SCOOP. Speaking of Blanchard, we think it is still too close to call between Michigan and Virginia. California is the long shot, but Michigan State definitely has no shot, despite the fact that Blanchard and Spartans All-American Mateen Cleaves are cousins. Our source, who is very close to the program, tells us that the Spartans stopped recruiting him a long time ago, because they don't need anybody else at that position and if they got involved now and somehow got the kid, it would create a civil war in the state of Michigan.

Our Ohio Editor Chris Johnson tells us that Toledo has gotten the two expected commitments from 6'8 Delvar Barrett from Bridgton (Academy) MI and 6'0 Javon Clark from Detroit (Cass Tech) MI. Johnson also is looking for Toledo to get another player originally from the state of Michigan - 6'2 Rory Jones from Casper (JC) WY - and he is confirming that Doug Davis from Michigan State is transferring to Miami of Ohio. Florida State appears to be done recruiting, because they now have a commitment from 6'10 Nigel Dixon from Orlando (Edgewater) FL. Like 7'0 David Anderson, who recently transferred to Florida State from Brigham Young, Dixon is best described as a project. However, if Dixon ever drops about 50 lbs. and gets in shape, John Reinke, who publishes the Pony Tails Scouting Service in Florida, thinks he could be pro. "You just can't teach somebody to be that big," says Reinke. "He's absolutely huge and he has great hands and great footwork.  And I don't use the word 'great' very often. He's unstoppable in the half-court. He could be Shaquille O'Neal if he ever gets in shape. But right now he's closer to 400 than 350 lbs., so getting up and down the court is obviously a big problem. The question is how hard will he be willing to work get in shape and reach his potential?"

We talked with Bobby Jacobs, who is the President and CEO of Slam Dunk to the Beach, and he tells us that he may have more McDonald's All Americans in his tournament than the McDonald All American Game. Jacobs tells us that the lineup for the Slam Dunk to the Beach tournament includes Philadelphia (Roman Catholic) PA, Fresno (Washington Union) CA, Louisville (Ballard) KY, Fayetteville (71st) NC, Elizabeth (St. Patrick) NJ, Sugar Land (Willowridge) TX, Columbia (Keenan) SC, and Tuscon (Santa Rita) AZ. Just in this bracket alone we're talking about three of the top four juniors in the nation in 6'5 Jr DeShawn Stevenson from Fresno (Washington Union) CA, 6'9 Jr Eddie Griffin from Philadelphia (Roman Catholic) PA, and 6'5 Jr Jerome Harper from Columbia (Keenan) SC, as well as two of the top 10 sophomores in 5'11 Soph Terrance Ford from Sugar Land (Willowridge) TX and 6'9 Soph Brandon Benders from Louisville (Ballard) KY. The National Power Series, which will include Bayonne (Marist) NJ, Tulsa (Booker T. Washington) OK, Salt Lake City (Brighton) UT, and Baltimore (Dunbar) MD, is also loaded. And so is the rest of the tournament. More on that later!

But the tournament that might have the National Player of the Year for the third consecutive season is the NationsBank City of Palms Classic. In 1998 it was 6'8 Al Harrington from Elizabeth (St. Patrick) NJ and this past season it was 6'7 Donnell Harvey from Cuthbert (Randolph Clay) GA. And Donnie Wilkie, who is the tournament director for the City of Palms Classic, thinks 6'7 Jr Gerald Wallace from Childersburg (H.S.) AL, who currenty ranks #11 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP among juniors, will explode onto the national scene this summer. Wilkie even goes so far as to predict that Wallace will be one of the leading candidates for National Player of the Year honors next year. Wilkie also may have another major surprise up his sleeve when he adds the last team to his field. But otherwise the field is already set with Louisville (Ballard) KY, Childersburg (H.S) AL, Slidell (Salmen) CA, Santa Ana (Mater Dei) CA, Denver (East) CO, Williamsport (H.S.) PA, Boston (English) MA, Lilburn (Berkmar) GA, Miami (South Miami) FL, Boca Raton (Pope John Paul VI) FL, Brandon (H.S.) FL, Miami (Northwest Christian) FL, Ft. Lauderdale (Dillard) FL, Ft. Myers (Cypress Lake) FL, and Immokalee (H.S.) FL.

Butler County (JC) KS head coach Steve Eck talked to the HOOP SCOOP's Chris Johnson today and he told us that he has not, as of yet, taken an assistant coaching position at Missouri-Kansas City nor have any of his players signed with the Kangaroos.  We already know that Alabama and Mississippi State are the final two for 6'5 Antonio Jackson, so Johnson didn't ask Eck about that. Instead, Johnson asked Eck about his other two other high Division I recruits - 6'7 Frosh Michael Jackson and 6'6 Marcus Golson, who has two and a half years of eligibility remaining. Eck says both players have officially visited Missouri-KC, but have not made any other official visits. Jackson is the more intriguing of the two because he has three years of eligibility remaining and has come on like gainbusters under Eck's tutelage since enrolling at Butler County two years ago. Also showing interest in Jackson, who was only one of two freshman to make the first team NJCAA All-American Team, are Oklahoma State and Syracuse. However, we wouldn't be surprised if Golson and Jackson both returned to Butler County for another year, along with Eck, because both have another year of junior college eligibility available. And waiting another year might prove to be the right move for Eck as well, because the Wichita State job could come open next spring if head coach Randy Smithson doesn't get it done next season. And if that happens, what kind of shot do you think Eck would have at getting the head coaching job at Wichita State? Pretty good! We've been told that Eck's father owns half of Wichita.

Thursday, April 22, 1999

South Carolina got a huge commitment yesterday from 6'7 Ivan Howell from Hopkins (Lower Richland) SC, who ranks #63 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP after we saw him last winter dominate at Slam Dunk to the Beach. Howell is big time athlete who can beat you from inside, outside, and from mid-range, which is a lost art in this day and age. Although we haven't confirmed whether Howell has made it academically, this also could be the deciding factor in getting Howell's younger brother, 6'9 Jr Rolando Howell, who ranks as #22 nationally in the junior class by the HOOP SCOOP and has a tremendous upside. With the addition of Howell, South Carolina now has a little bit of everything in this recruiting class. They recently landed two good big guys in 6'10 Marijonas Petrvicious from New Hampton (Prep) NH and 6'11 Trevor Harvey from Freeport (Catholic) Bahamas. And last fall they got a super talent in 6'8 Chuck Eidson from Summerville (Pinewood) SC, one of the best 3-pointer shooters we saw last summer in 6'6 Travis Kraft from Mayville (Mayville CG) ND, and 6'7 Calvin Clemmons from Charlotte (Olympic) NC, who is one of the best players in North Carolina. As a result, the Gamecocks class has a shot at being ranked among our top 10 recruiting classes nationally. As a result, all the Eddie Fogler haters will certainly be disappointed, because South Carolina should be one of the most improved teams in the nation next year.

We are still looking for Missouri to get all "3 K's - 6'5 Kareem Rush from Kansas City (Pembroke Hill) MO, 6'5 Jason Kapono from Lakewood (Artesia) CA, 6'5 Josh Kroenke from New Hampton (Prep) NH - and the first one could become official as soon as tomorrow. Apparently Rush really likes new head coach Quin Snyder and following his brother to UCLA is now something he is not interested in doing. With Kroenke, we still think it's only a matter of time before he picks Missouri. As for Kapono, who ranks #13 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP, we talked with his high school coach Wayne Merino today and he thinks Kapono is still a long way away from making a decision. Right now the official party line is that it's a three horse race among Missouri, Utah, and Arizona. Stay tuned! While the younger Rush appears to he heading to Missouri, the word we're getting is that the older Rush, Jaron Rush, will remain at UCLA.

Speaking of UCLA's recruiting class, the Bruins have not signed a single player in this recruiting class, although 6'7 Brandon Brooks from Honolulu (Punahou) HI, who is ranked by Dave Krider in the USA Today as the #1 player in Hawaii, has signed an athletic scholarship for polo at UCLA. Instead, we look for UCLA to bring in a transfer our two. Among the names we've been hearing are Luke Recker, Adam Harrington, and Ryan Humphrey, but Tracy Pierson of the Bruin Report Online Web Site has added a new name to the list. Apparently 5'10 Victor Williams is leaving Illinois State and UCLA is one of the schools being mentioned, because Williams and UCLA point guard Earl Watson were good friends and played AAU ball together while in high school in Kansas City. Pierson also is reporting that Humphrey wants to go someplace where he can step in and be the star, which is why Notre Dame and Pittsburgh are at the top of his list. And finally somebody has come up with the name of the mystery player from Czech Republic that UCLA has been mentioned with for the last year. According to Pierson, his name is 6'10 Stan Zuzak, but no other details are provided. As long as we're talking about transfers, Travis Reed has announced he's leaving UCLA for Long Beach State.

It had been reported earlier by Ron Briscoe that the University of Kentucky had gotten a commitment from 6'7 Anthony Evans from Neosho County (JC) UT, but it hasn't happened yet and might not happen, unless Jamaal Magloire opts for the NBA (he has until May 16th to make up his mind). Evans, who has said he'd be more likely not to come to Kentucky if he knows that Magloire plans to be back next year, has a visit scheduled to Georgia this weekend and also has Tennessee and Arizona State on his list. Instead, the HOOP SCOOP has now confirmed that 6'10 Nate Knight from Utah Valley (JC) UT, who ranks #31 among junior college players nationally by Phil Henzel, has made it official for the University of Kentucky. We also have confirmed that Byron Mouton, who transferrring from Tulane, will be in Lexington, KY this weekend and that he realizes that he made a mistake the first time around and, as a result, he wants to go to Kentucky in the worst way.

Another one we're following closely is the situation involving 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI, who ranks #45 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP. Today in an interview with Tony Crews of WHAS Radio, Gaines said that he almost signed with Maryland last week after playing in the Capital Classic, but now is hinting that he plans to sign with Louisville within the next few days. However, based on the last two weeks, who knows what this kid is going to do next. If that weren't enough, Gaines and 6'5 Marshall Williams from Milwaukee (Vincent) WI played in an AAU all-star game, as well as the Capital Classic this spring and there are questions about whether he has already met the two game all-star game limit. As a result, the people running the Derby Classic are holding him out of practice and the game, but he will remain in Louisville to attend the game at his own expense. Williams has returned home.

Tonight we talked with Michael Byrnes, who is the head coach at Winchendon (School) MA, and he confirms that 6'10 Ivan Kartelo did sign with Notre Dame on Monday, but he also tells us that he was not offered an assistant coaching position at Notre Dame by new head coach Matt Doherty. As a result, we expect Byrnes to remain at Winchendon and continue be one of the dominant high programs in the nation. Byrnes also tells us that another one of his players 6'10 Abraham Keita, who ranks among our top 100 nationally, will visit St. John's next weekend and then decide between the Red Storm and Temple. Another one of his players 6'4 Bruce Seals has signed with Manhattan and 7'3 Bruno Sundov, who was drafted last June, was recently called up to play with the Dallas Mavericks.

Wednesday, April 21, 1999

Dave Schultz of the HOOP SCOOP tells us that 5'11 Soph Tony Tate from Jersey City (St. Anthony) NJ is transferring. Apparently he's gotten into Bob Hurley's doghouse and the legendary coach is encouraging Tate to look elsewhere. This is big, because Tate not only ranks #19 nationally in the sophomore class by the HOOP SCOOP, but he was also the leading scorer for St. Anthony last year and was supposed to be Hurley's next great player. Rumor has it that Tate will transfer to Bayonne (Marist) NJ, but Paterson (Catholic) NJ and Elizabeth (St. Patrick) NJ are also be mentioned. We're also hearing that Hurley's other young guard - 5'10 Elijah Ingram, who ranks #19 nationally in the freshman class by the HOOP SCOOP - may be leaving St. Anthony, but right now we are reporting that only as rumor. Schultz also tells us that 6'10 Robert Reed from Bayonne (Marist) NJ has committed to Rider and that Rutgers will get a visit next week from 6'4 Trey Ferguson from Hoover (H.S.) AL. You know, he's the guy who committed to Indiana last fall, but recently reneged on "The General." Rutgers was also supposed to have 6'3 Derrick Zimmerman from Monroe (Gossman) LA and 6'4 Courtney Trask from Baton Rouge (Parkview Baptist) LA in for visits, but that's been cancelled. Could Bronx (St. Raymond's) NY head coach Gary Decesare get hired by Jerry Degregorio at Rhode Island? That's what's Schultz has heard. He's also heard that Florida State is out for 6'10 Mark McCarroll from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY. As a result, the final two for McCarroll are Villanova and Syracuse. Our prediction is Syracuse and don't be surprised if it happens as soon as today. Hofstra now appears to be the leader for 6'3 Kevin Bell from New York (Rice) NY, but he's still waiting on Villanova. The way it looks now, it may be a long wait!

We have confirmed that 6'7 Donnell Harvey from Cuthbert (Randolph Clay) GA, who is ranked as the #1 senior in the nation by the HOOP SCOOP, as expected, did announce for the University of Florida today. The HOOP SCOOP has confirmed that 6'11 Ivan Kartelo from Winchendon (School) MA has picked Notre Dame. This comes as no surprise, because the head coach at Winchendon, Mike Byrnes, has been looking for a job and recently he was hired by new Irish head coach Matt Doherty. We also have unconfirmed reports that 6'5 Keith Kincade from Compton (Dominguez) CA, who we have ranked #131 nationally, has committed to West Virginia. The final two for 6'5 Antonio Jackson from Butler County (JC) KS, who ranks as one of the top five junior college players in the nation, are Mississippi State and Alabama. Catholic University of America, which is a Division III school in Washington, DC have a steal in 6'7 Matt Hilleary from Manassas (Seton) VA and 5'11 Will Partin from Louisville (Ballard) KY, who was the MVP in the state Kentucky State Tournament last month, has committed to Missouri-Rolla (Division II). South Florida now appears to be the leader for 6'11 Kris Hunter, who is transferring from Virginia.

Jason Parker, the 6'8 center from Charlotte (West Charlotte) NC, who signed last week with North Carolina, scored 30 points and hit 14-16 field goals en route to MVP honors in the the Dada All-Star Classic (formerly the Eddie Jones All-Star Game), which was held this Sunday at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion. "He reminds you of Elton Brand," says Phil Gatton, who is runs the game along with Dinos Triginos. "But Parker has a better mid-range game than Brand and he doesn't take everything to the basket. Unlike Brand, he'll make a move to the basket and then pull back and it the open shot." Also playing well for the U.S. All-Stars was 6'10 Leon Smith from Chicago (Martin Luther King) IL, who complemented Parker with 28 points. However, the hero of the day was 6'2 Demetrius Hunter from Las Vegas (Cheyenne) NV, who scored 16 points and hit what proved to be the game winning shot with 13 second left to give the U.S. All-Stars a 156-154 victory over the West Coast All-Stars. Joel Francisco, the Editor & Publisher of Southern California's Finest Scouting Service, also thought 7'0 Josh Moore from Oakdale (St. Thomas More) CT and 6''3 Kirk Hinrich from Sioux City (West) IA played well for the U.S. Team, but was disappointed in 6'5 Marshall Williams from Milwaukee (Vincent) WI, despite the fact Williams scored 14 points. Francisco was also impressed with the outside shooting by 6'7 Chris Ogden from Seminole (H.S.) TX. The West All-Stars were led by 6'8 Justin Davis from Alameda (St. Joseph) CA and 6'4 Keith Gaines from Las Vegas (Clark) NV, who combined for 51 points. Davis did all the dirty work inside, but he also surprised a lot of people with his improved perimeter shooting. As a result, his value goes way up. Francisco also tells us that 6'8 Andrew Gooden from El Cerrito (H.S.) CA, 6'5 Jamaal Crawford from Seattle (Rainier Beach) WA, 6'4 Tito Maddox from Compton (H.S.) CA all played well enough to get a special mention. The best matchup of the day was between Gaines and 6'2 Marlon Parmer from Los Angeles (Verbum Dei) CA. "For two or three minutes it was a war - an all out battle," says Triginos. "You don't see two guys go at it like that very often in an all-star."

Tuesday, April 20, 1999

Whenever we hear about a player who we haven't seen, especially from a coach, a parent, a street agent, or anybody else who might have a hidden agenda, we have learned to be skeptical, at least until proven otherwise. Or when non-basketball people start touting a player as the next Michael Jordan or Pete Maravich, we usually don't jump on the bandwagon. A good example is 6'2 Jr Tamir Goodman from Baltimore (Talmudical) MD, who committed this winter to Maryland during his junior year in high school. He put up incredible numbers and has been called a "Jewish Jordan," so it wasn't surprising when I got calls from people wanting to know why Goodman wasn't ranked among the top juniors nationally by the HOOP SCOOP. Well, Goodman finally faced some serious competition this spring and the early returns aren't pretty. One knowledgable fan recently emailed me telling that Goodman can not play in the ACC. "You will see that for yourself. Gary Williams never saw him play until after he offered him a scholarship. Goodman went 0-21 the first half at Cole Fieldhouse. The fans were screaming at Williams. Things like, 'no wonder you can't ever beat Duke and no wonder you can't get past the sweet 16.' Williams stormed off the court at half time and was screaming at Goodman's coach. 'He doesn't even play a lick of defense.' Which is true, because he couldn't cover you and me. Goodman finished the game 4-41 from the field." Our New York Editor Ron Naclerio also saw Goodman last week at IS8 and offers a little bit of hope. "He's not a top 100 player and he isn't ready to play in the ACC or the Big East, but it will be interesting to see how he adjusts to the higher level of competition night in and night out," says Naclerio. "He doesn't know how to deal with the incredible quickness at the big time level and he has trouble getting his shot. However, given time he's capable of making the adjustment. How hard does he want to work?  How well does he understand the game? I'll have to see him some more evaluate all that." Another good example of our sight unseen skepticism are the three Nigerians - 6'9 Benjamin Eze Ndubuis, 6'11 Muhamed Lasege, and 7'0 Uche Okafor - who were billed as the greatest thing since sliced bread last week in the Louisville Courier-Journal by their handler in Canada. We still hear conflicting reports on Lasege and Okafor, but several college coaches who have seen Eze Ndubuis tell us he's great! And we're not talking about being a top 20 player in the nation if he were ranked with the high school seniors. We're talking about a player that some feel would have been the #1 player in the NBA draft last year. And apparently we'll get to see whether he can live up to that billing in the Derby Classic All Star Game this weekend in Louisville, KY, because the word is all three have obtained visas. Eze Ndubuis will play in the game and Lasege and Okafor will both on campus at Louisville this weekend to make an unofficial visit and watch Eze Ndubuis play.

It looks like all the rumors about the legendary Morgan Wootten retiring as the head coach at Hyattsville (DeMatha) MD may be true after all, because yesterday his son, Joe Wootten was named as the new head coach at Arlington (Bishop O'Connell) MD. According to Josh Barr in article published in the Washington Post this morning, "Wootten said last night he is considering retirement because his son Joe, one of his assistants for the past three years, was hired yesterday as the O'Connell's boys head coach." The article quotes Wootten saying, "'I am re-evaluating, no question. Different circumstances make you think different ways.'" Other sources tell us that Wootten's son took the job at Bishop O'Connell in Arlington, because they refused to even consider him as the next coach as DeMatha. This is the first time that Morgan Wootten has publicly acknowledged that he is considering hanging up the whistle. If this happens, it will be open season on DeMatha's next two stars - 6'3 Soph Billy Edelin and 6'10 Soph Jordan Collins. Our prediction is that Mr. Edelin will move his son if Morgan retires. The O'Connell job is not a great job because it sits in an area not deep in talent, but there is a subway system blocks away. The younger Wootten will work hard in a pressure-free environment for a few years, while DeMatha junior varsity coach Tom Burke or Potomac (Bullis Prep) MD head coach Mike Hibbs, who previously was at DeMatha, tries to live up to Morgan's reputation without that much talent. DeMatha supposedly had locked up the top 8th grader in the area and the kid is from Virginia. Joe Wootten was influential in his recruitment and the kid might be steered to O'Connell. With his son gone, there really is no reason for the legendary coach to continue coaching at DeMatha. There is also speculation that the rumor in the Washington Post on Sunday that Joe Wootten was up for the O'Connell job was planted as a last second power play by Morgan Wootten to get principal John Moylan to give the job to his son. Moylan refused to budge and Joe Wootten accepted the job at O'Connell yesterday. "I hate to see this go down this way," says one of our sources. "I wish Morgan would have announced he was retiring at the end of the season so people could have gotten the proper sendoff. The whole situation reads as Morgan leaves bitter that the administration at DeMatha refused to back his wishes after 43 years as coach, 39 of them as the top program in DC."

Our Philadelphia Area Editor Allen Rubin is reporting that Ron Anderson, who recently announced that he was transferring from N.C. State, will enroll at Duquesne. Rubin also tells us that 6'8 Victor Carter from Harlengen (Military) TX is heading to La Salle and 6'5 Greg McCleary from Philadelphia (West Central) PA, who is also an excellent student, has picked Lafayette over Bucknell, Colgate, and Duquesne. Rubin also thinks that 6'11 Ivan Kartelo from Winchendon (School) MA will sign with Notre Dame. "It's between Notre Dame and Boston College," says Rubin. "But Boston College appears to be fading. I think it may happen as soon as tomorrow." Speaking of players from Winchendon (School) MA, 7'1 Bruno Sundov, who was drafted a year ago by the Dallas Mavericks, was called up within the last several days. Just think, he'been transformed from being a good high school player into a NBA player in just a month. When we saw him at the NIKE Hoop Summit, March 28th, in Tampa, FL, we thought he had good offensive skills and liked his potential, but questioned whether he was ready to make an immediate impact at the college level. Physically, he's so thin!

Our Ohio Editor Chris Johnson told us last week that Florida State and Georgia were both getting visits from 6'9 Arturas Javtokas from Western Nebraska (JC) NE, but also added that he's already a done deal for Clemson. It looks like Johnson was right, because we have now confirmed that Javtokas has committed to Clemson. Johnson also tells us that the University of Washington has gotten a commitment from 6'11 David Dixon from Tyler (JC) TX. "He's kind of a project, but when you are that big and strong a lot of schools will take a chance," says Johnson. We told you a month ago that Youngstown State head coach Dan Peters might resign and take an assistant coaching position at Cincinnati. Well, it has happened and it makes more sense than you might think, because Peters was an assistant under Bob Huggins at Akron and Youngstown State is the toughest job in Mid-Continent Conference. Barry Baun, a sports writer for the New York Post, is reporting that St. John's may be on the verge of early two commitments from 6'11 Jr Mohamed Diakite from Rockville (Montrose Christian) MD and 6'8 Jeff McMillan from Oakdale (St. Thomas More) CT. McMillan is on our 5th year list, but he is academically way behind, so he plans to return to prep school for another year. As a result, he will get recruited as part of the same recruiting class as Diakite in the year 2000. Joel Francisco of Southern California's Finest has 6'9 Frosh DeAngelo Collins from Tustin (H.S.) CA ranked as the #1 freshman in California, but now he needs to make several adjustments. It appears that Collins is two years behind academically, so we'll be listing him as a senior next year. Also, he's had a number of off the court problems and, as a result, he is transferring to Inglewood (H.S.) CA. Howwever, he's a tremendous talent and could be a great catch for the right prep school or junior college. Everybody thought that 6'1 Danny Walker from Compton (JC) CA was now a done deal for the University of Texas, but it is nice to see that he honored the commitment he made to Nebraska in January after all. The HOOP SCOOP has confirmed that Walker has signed with Nebraska.

Monday, April 19, 1999

Telling you that 6'9 DerMarr Johnson from Pittsfield (Maine Central Institute) ME is going to Cincinnati, 6'9 Carlos Boozer from Juneau (Douglas) AK is going to Duke, 6'9 Jason Parker from Charlotte (West Charlotte) NC is going to North Carolina, 6'7 Donnell Harvey from Cuthbert (Randolph Clay) GA is going to Florida, and 6'6 LaVell Blanchard is going to Michigan is like stating the obvious today. But if you go back to Sunday, March 28th, when we made these predictions, we were out on a limb. And there is nothing like going out on a limb and being right! Johnson has gone to Cincinnati, Boozer has gone to Duke, Parker has gone to North Carolina, and now Harvey will announce for Florida on Wednesday. This is not only huge for Florida, but also for the balance of power in college basketball in general. The addition of Harvey moves the Gators recruiting class into the #2 position nationally this year. And if you combine Florida's current recruiting class with last year's class that finished ranked #8 nationally and included Ted Dupay, Mike Miller, Ladarius Halton, and Udonis Haslem, no school in the nation has recruited better during the last two recruiting years. Harvey, who ranks as the #1 high school player in the nation by the HOOP SCOOP, is the perfect complement to what Florida already has - a never ending supply of perimeter players who can shoot the lights out and run you out of the gym. When they miss, the smart money says Harvey will get the rebound. As a matter of fact, Harvey might be the best rebounder this side of Dennis Rodman and fortunately he doesn't have Rodman's attitude. Instead, he's a great kid! Add him to 6'2 Brett Nelson from St. Albans (H.S.) WV, 6'9 Matt Bonner from Concord (H.S.) NH, 6'9 Sylbrin Robinson from Chatham (Hargrave Military) VA, and 6'3 Justin Hamilton from Sarasota (Booker) FL and the Gators are well on the towards becoming one of the powers - right up there with the Duke's and Kentucky's - in college basketball. And they may not be done yet. Don't be surprised if Luke Recker, who announced that he is transferring from Indiana last week, winds up at Florida. Getting back to Blanchard, he's the only thing that is preventing us from going five for five on pur predictions from three weeks ago. We still think Michigan will get Blanchard, but Virginia has rebounded well after assistant coach Bobby Gonzalez took the head coaching job at Manhattan. Virginia head coach Pete Gillen moved assistant coach Tommy Herrion up and he has done a great job in the last month. As a result, we have to make the Cavaliers the co-favorite.

We are now getting reports that 6'4 Trey Ferguson from Hoover (H.S.) AL, who had committed to Indiana last fall, but was planning on attending prep school next year before showing up in Bloomington, IN the following year, has reneged on the Hoosiers. The anti-Bob Knight crowd will tell you that the bottom is starting to fall out at Indiana, but we're not sure it's time for Hoosier fans to start panicking just yet. If you will recall, Luke Recker announced last week that he was leaving, but if I read one more article that claims it was Recker's life long dream to play at Indiana, I might have to scream. Recker did announce for Indiana before his junior year of high school, but our sources tell us that Recker would have committed to Purdue or anybody else who offered on the day. At that point he was just a babe in the woods. Apparently Knight totally caught him off guard. Remember, in recent years Knight has pushed most of the in-state players to commit very early. A good example was 5'10 Jason Gardner from Indianapolis (North Central) IN, who Knight offered a scholarship to as a sophomore. However, Gardner wasn't interested and from that point on we knew that Indiana's changes were slim and none. Another good example is 5'10 Jr Brody Boyd from Dugger (Union) IN, who ranks as the #3 junior in the state by Jim Kasberg of the HOOP SCOOP. Indiana is still on his list, but he's already told them no, he won't commit early three times. And if new Iowa head coach Steve Alford comes calling, his bags are already packed. Getting back to Recker, Kasberg tells us that his top five schools are Arizona, North Carolina, Florida, Georgia Tech, and Iowa. Kasberg also thinks Iowa is a legitimate contender, because Recker's father lives within minutes of the University of Iowa campus. This is important, because normally he would have to sit out two years if he transfers to another school in the Big 10. However, if he pays his own way, he would only have to sit out one year. Obviously, paying in-state tuiton, because his father is resident of the state, and getting free room and board would make this a lot more plausible.

It looks like Manhattan may have stolen one in 6'6 Jared Johnson from Cheshire (Academy) CT and we still think they are right there with 6'2 Luis Flores from New York (Norman Thomas) NY, although Rutgers is trying to make it interesting at the 11th hour. We also have confirmed that 6'8 Maurice Pitts from Chicago (Hales Franciscan) IL, who ranks among the 25 seniors in the state of Illinois,  has committed with Hampton University. This is now confirmed - Kris Hunter is transferring from Virginia. As a result, we are now predicting that the Cavaliers will get 6'8 Stephane Don Don Collins County (JC) TX, who is much better than most people realize. Assuming that Don Don commits tomorrow, Virginia will still have one scholarship left and the guy who would move this recruiting class into the #2 position ahead of Florida and behind Duke is 6'6 LaVell Blanchard from Ann Arbor (Pioneer) MI, who ranks as the #9 player nationally by the HOOP SCOOP. Stay tuned!

We also are confirming reports that 6'5 Marshall Williams from Milwaukee (Vincent) WI has committed or is on the verge of committing to N.C. State. Also several months ago we reported that 6'8 DeAndre Hulett from College of the Sequoias (JC) CA, who was one of the top junior college players in the nation this year, was leaning towards declaring hardship for the NBA draft this spring, but now it looks like he realizes he needs more time develop his skills and mature as person,before making that huge leap. As a result, it looks like he will be back. Also, we are now hearing that Corey Maggette will be back at Duke. However, we are hearing more and more that Chris Burgess will be gone - either on a mission or to UCLA, Utah, or Missouri.

The Kentucky All-Stars were chosen yesterday after two days of tryouts at Georgetown College. Heading the list of players picked were three players - 6'4 Duane King, 5'11 Kevin Paschel, and 6'1 Michael Griffith - from Louisville (Pleasure Ridge Park) KY. This is a major accomplishment in itself, because last time a school at three players on the Kentucky All Star team was in 1977 when Ballard's Jeff Lamp, Lee Raker, and Norman Miller all made the team. Also named to the team were 6'6 Derek Smith from Ft. Thomas (Highlands) KY, 6'2 George Baker from Lexington (Dunbar) KY, 6'1 Rick Jones from Georgetown (Scott County) KY, 6'6 Chris Shumate from Louisville (Male) KY, 6'8 Darrell Arbaugh from Ashland (Paul Blazer) KY, 6'5 Josh Graham from Flemingsburg (Fleming County) KY, 6'3 A.W. Hamilton from Georgetown (Scott County) KY, 6'3 Kenneal Jenkins from Richmond (Madison Central) KY, 6'3 J.R. Reynolds from Greenville (Muhlenberg North) KY, 6'9 Joe Sykes from Ratcliff (North Hardin) KY, 6'8 Jon Bentley from Hazard (H.S.) KY. This group will represent the Kentucky All Star against the Indiana All Stars in the 58th Annual Kentucky-Indiana All Star Games, which will be held on June 19th in Indianapolis, IN and June 26th in Frankfort, KY.

We have now confirmed that Western Kentucky has signed 6'2 Mike Wells from Elkton (Todd County Central) KY and that the Hilltoppers are also taking 6'8 Caleb Holcomb from Bowling Green (H.S.) KY as a walk-on. We also have confirmed that University of Kentucky head coach Tubby Smith wants 6'6 Derek Smith from Ft. Thomas (Highlands) KY to play basketball, so we plan to count Smith with the Wildcats recruiting class this spring.  Remember, Smith is the best football prospect,except for Dennis Johnson (another football at Kentucky who could play basketball) in the state since Tim Couch, who was taken two days ago as the #1 player in the NFL draft. Alabama-Birmingham has offered 6'5 Josh Graham from Flemingsburg (Fleming County) KY, but he's still waiting on Louisville. We predict it may be a long wait. We understand that 6'4 Chris Shumate from Louisville (Male) KY has made it official for Murray State and the Racers are also expected to get 5'11 Kevin Paschel from Louisville (Pleasure Ridge Park) KY, although Louisville and Manhattan entered the picture late last week and now Georgia is calling. But the best rumor of all is that 6'10 Soph Tony Keys from Russellville (H.S.) KY has transferred or is transferring to Georgetown (Scott County) KY. So far this is unconfirmed, but remember 6'1 Rick Jones transferred from Corbin (H.S.) KY to Scott County two years ago and 6'5 Jr Scott Hundley transferred from Lexington (Dunbar) KY to Scott County last year. If Keys does end up at Scott County, it would be the third straight year the Cardinals have had one of the top two or three players the state transfer to their school. How do they do this?  Easy when the kids' parents suddenly get a job at the Toyota plant in Georgetown, KY.

Sunday,  April 18, 1999

Three weeks ago we reported that the surprise team for 6'5 Antonio Jackson from Butler County (JC) KS might just be the University of Missouri-Kansas City. We also told you that Butler County (JC) KS head coach Steve Eck might be part of the package. Well, Bill Ellis, who publishes the Alabama High School Sports Tickets, tells us that it's close to happening. "I understand that Jackson's father summoned him home to Huntsville to have a 'long talk' with him about this Missouri-KC turn of events, says Ellis. "The elder Jackson was reported in the Huntsville Times as being very unhappy with his son's consideration of the Missouri-KC." And Eck may not get hired at Missouri-KC, unless they get a signature from Jackson. "He may or may not sign with Missouri-KC, but has not done so yet," says Ellis. "I still expect him to ink with Bama." Right now it looks like a two horse race between Alabama and Mississippi State, but Louisville and Oklahoma State both appear to be making a late push. As a matter of fact, the Cowboys still have a coaching position open and there has already been talk about Eck packaging himself with Jackson.

Jerry Gale of SoCalHoops is reporting that 5'11 Ronald Jackson from Compton (Dominguez) CA will commit to Michigan State next week and 6'5 Joe Shipp from Los Angeles (Fairfax) CA has committed to the University of California. "He'll sign a letter of intent next week," says Gale.  He also tells us that 6'2 Marlon Parmer from Los Angeles (Verbum Dei) CA enjoyed his trip to Michigan, but did not commit. "He is still down to three schools, Michigan, UNLV, and USC. Marlon will make an announcement on April 29 at the banquet before the WSS (Warehouse Shoe Sale) Scholastic Hoops Jam, yet another SoCal All-Star game which will take place on April 30." If that weren't enough, Gale expects 6'5 Kareem Rush from Kansas City (Pembroke Hill) MO to make an announcment next week. "Rush was at UCLA today for the Dada Classic and told us that he still hasn't made up his mind. For what it's worth, we spent some time with him, brother JaRon Rush and Earl Watson before the game. Earl told us everything is "ok" at UCLA. JaRon didn't say and we didn't ask, but at least he's still on campus." The HOOP SCOOP plans to have report on the Dada All-Star Classic later tomorrow on this page, but Gale tells us that lots of pro scouts (about eight) came over to Pauley from the Desert Hoops Classic in Phoenix to check out 6'10 Leon Smith from from Martin Luther King in Chicago. "He had flashes of brilliance, mixed in with some just ok play, but a number of pro scouts told us that 'he's worth taking a chance on if he comes out in the draft.' Of course my view is that he could benefit from a year or two of college, but unless DePaul or Fresno State have him locked up, I'd expect him to announce for the draft."

Hunting Park beat H.B.A. Waterview, 60-57, in the championship game of the 39th Annual Albert C. Donofrio Basketball Classic in Conshohocken, PA, thanks to the efforts of 6'1 Jermaine Robinson and 6'8 Tahric Gosley, both from Philadelphia (Simon Gratz) PA. Robinson, who was named MVP for his team, had 22 points and six steals. Gosley had 11 points, 13 rebounds, and five blocks. The MVP for the the losing team was 6'4 Khalid Brey from Philadelphia (Central) PA, but our Philadelphia Area Editor Allen Rubin thought that award should have gone to 5'7 Jr Marcus Green from Norristown (H.S.) PA, who five assists, and three steals in the championship game. The biggest story of the week might have been the poor performance by 6'2 Soph Dajuan Wagner from Camden (H.S.) NJ, who only hit 12-38 field goals in the game when his team was eliminated from the tournament. However, all the heat that Wagner has taken for his poor performance might not be justified, because he was trying to impress his father, Milt Wagner, who hasn't seen him play very often due to his own pro career in France. As a matter of fact, Rubin tells us that Wagner was hurt and probably won't have even played if his father hadn't been there. That was a week ago Friday and it's too bad his team was eliminated so early, because the place was packed both times Wagner played. It was also packed for both of Eddie Griffin's games. Griffin is the 6'8 junior power forward from Philadelphia (Roman Catholic) PA, who is ranked among the top five juniors nationally by the HOOP SCOOP. Griffin was also named to the all-tournament team, along with Wagner, Robinson, Green, Brey, 5'9 Alex Ramos from Horsham (Hatboro-Horsham) PA, 6'6 Steve Sanders from Philadelphia (Simon Gratz) PA, 6'4 Michael Morandais from Burlington (Life Center) NJ, 6'5 Tim Whitworth from Philadelphia (Chestnut Hill) PA, 6'4 Doug Fairfax from Haverford (School) PA, 6'3 Kevin Forney from Philadelphia (Christian) PA, 6'6 Calvin Johnson from Philadelphia (Ben Franklin) PA, 6'5 Jr Kurt Bergmann from Fairless Hills (Pennsbury) PA, 6'4 Tim Benoit from Roselle (Catholic) NJ, 6'7 Marcus Rosser from Philadelphia (University City) PA, and 6'4 Greg Jefferson from Troy (Redemption) NY. Speaking of Jefferson, he told Rubin that he plans to sign with Temple, which right now is a scoop. He's not a prime time player, but he is a defensive specialist with good athleticism and a tough demeanor. As a result, Rubin thinks he could fit in well with the Owls. Rubin also wants to mentioned three other players who didn't make the all-tournament, but who played well enough to be strongly considered for that honor. They were Gosley, 5'11 Ashley Howard from Drexel Hill (Bonner) PA, and 6'8 Jr Keith Burton from Orange (H.S.) NJ. Burton is especially noteworthy, because he didn't play organized ball for the first two-and-a-half years of his high school career and, as a result, not many people know about him. "He's a legit top 50 player in the junior class nationally," says Rubin. "He's tough inside on the boards, but he can also step outside and beat with his 3-point range." Rubin also notes that Green won the Little Big Man Award and Johnson won the the sportsmanship award.

Saturday, April 17, 1999

We have now confirmed that the University of Illinois has beaten DePaul for 6'3 Sean Harrington from Elgin (H.S.) IL, who is ranked #105 nationally and #6 in Illinois by the HOOP SCOOP.. New Manhattan head coach Bobby Gonzalez hasn't wasted any time getting it done. The Jaspers have already signed 6'5 Bruce Seals from Winchendon (School) MA and they are close on 6'2 Luis Flores from New York (Norman Thomas) NY, who is ranked #11 in New York City by Ron Naclerio. And Manhattan also appears to be trying to make a late run at 5'11 Kevin Paschel from Louisville (Pleasure Ridge Park) KY, who was so impressive recently (he was the MVP in two all-stars games) that the University of Louisville is talking about offering him a scholarship, if they don't get 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI. Shamar Herron, a 6'9, 250 lbs. banger, is leaving Ohio State. Our Ohio Editor Chris Johnson tells us that Detroit, Eastern Kentucky, Marquette, Eastern Michigan, Ball State, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan, and Toledo are all possibilities, but Stephen Bell, the Editor & Publisher of The Bank, thinks Eastern Michigan will be the likely choice. Also, we were glad to see former Marquette head coach Mike Deane get the Lamar job yesterday. Deane is a great bench coach, a relentless worker, and a straight shooter. You can bet that he'll get it done at Lamar and soon be back at the big time level.

Do you remember 6'8 Tim Washington from Washington (Archbishop Carroll) DC via Winchendon (School) MA? He signed with Eastern Carolina a year ago, but now is back in the Washington, DC area and he recently signed with American University, although nobody knows it yet. Remember where you heard it first! American University also may get 6'2 Darren Kelly from Brown McKie (JC) KS, although Kelly is visiting Rutgers this weekend and that could change if the Scarlet Knights offer. We are also hearing that Troy Weaver, who is the head coach of Team Assault, may get an assistant coaching position at New Mexico and if he does, look for him to bring with him 6'2 Greg Lomax, who currently isn't in school right now, but who is the best available point guard in the DC area. If this doesn't materalize, American University just might steal Lomax as well. We haven't confirmed this, but the Recruiting Beat is reporting that 6'7 Omar Weaver from Washington (Coolidge) DC has transferred to Compton (H.S.) CA. Miami-FL appears to be the early favorite for 6'3 Jr David Hawkins from Washington (Archbishop Carroll) DC, but Villanova, Florida State, Syracuse, Connecticut, Clemson, and LaSalle are also on his list. But perhaps the biggest story in this area involves Mike Glick, who has resigned as the head coach at St. Vincent (Pallotti) MD, and 6'8 Soph Levi Watkins, who will likely be the subject of major recruiting battle this spring. Where Watkins will end up is anybody's guess, but it could really elevate the school he transfers to, because he's one of the top sophomores in the area, as a well as a top 40 sophomore nationally according to the HOOP SCOOP.

Friday, April 16, 1999

Our Philadelphia Editor Allen Rubin reports that 6'6 Antonio Lappergard from Largo (H.S.) MD has reneged on the commitment he made last fall to Monmouth. Apparently he didn't sign a national letter-of-intent and now has decided he wants to go to a higher level school, which explains why he is able to sign with Virginia Commonwealth. We have gotten a report from SoCalHoops, about Kentucky getting involved with 6'3 Marcus Moore from Compton (Dominguez) CA, who ranks only #32 in California by the HOOP SCOOP, but who was a late addition to the Dada All-Star Classic, which will be held at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion on Sunday, April 18th. The speculation is that Kentucky might be showing interest so they can bridge the gap between Tayshaun Prince, who they signed a year ago out of Dominguez, and 7'0 Soph Tyson Chandler from Compton (Dominguez) CA, who is ranked as one of the top five players nationally in that loaded sophomore class. But a great performance by Moore in the all-star game could make his value go way up. Apparently USC is also recruiting Moore, but the players the Trojans are really going after are 6'2 Marlon Parmer from Los Angeles (Verbum Dei) CA and 6'5 Joe Shipp from Los Angeles (Fairfax) CA. Parmer's also considering Michigan and Utah, while Shipp also has Maryland, California, and Georgia Tech at the top of his list. Speaking of Shipp, J.C. Clemons, a beat writer for the Atlanta Constitution, tells us that Shipp is visiting Georgia Tech this weekend. Clemons also tells us that he has a source who thinks Georgia Tech may be close to getting 6'10 Benjamin Eze Ndubuis from Toronto, ON and that head coach Bobby Cremins is also recruiting the other two Nigerians in Toronto - 6'11 Muhamed Lasege, and 7'0 Uche Okafor. Yesterday Louisville was the leader. Today Georgia Tech is the favorite. Who will it be tomorrow? Do you get the feeling that Slavko Duric, a businessmen in Canada who appears to be the person running the recruitment of all three players, is telling everybody what they want to hear?

We are now getting reports that 6'7 Shon Coleman from Indian Hills (JC) IA has cancelled his visit to Kentucky this weekend and apparently will decide whether to use his final visit to go to Louisville or Georgia. However, it does look like 6'7 Anthony Evans from Neosho County (JC) KS will be in Lexington, KY this weekend. We also hearing that Evans, who also is still considering Georgia, Tennessee, and Arizona State, is on the verge of making a verbal commitment to the Wildcats. The word is that unless something unforeseen goes wrong on the official visit, it's a done deal. We also are still waiting on 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI, who is expected to pick either Maryland or Louisville, but it seems to go on and on and on. We also continue to hear rumors that Luke Recker might not be the only player who wants out at Indiana. The word is that Dane Fife is also considering transferring, but Michigan is not the only school we're hearing. Would you believe that San Diego State is a possibility? Remember, Steve Fisher and Brian Dutcher were at Michigan when the Wolverines recruited him the first time around.

We reported that a month ago that 6'9 Rudy Williams from Dixie (JC) UT, who ranks as one of the top 10 junior college players in the nation, would likely sign with Long Beach State. Well, it happened this morning. We also are expecting Long Beach State to get his teammate 6'6 Jim Roban from Dixie (JC) UT. He'll visit Memphis this weekend and Long Beach State next week. San Diego State and UNLV are also on his list. Tulsa leads Southern Utah, Texas, and Texas Tech for 6'5 Fred House from Dixie (JC) UT and Fairleigh Dickinson leads UT-Pan American and Rider for 5'10 Khalid Coursey from Dixie (JC) UT. The latest list for the Pepperdine job includes David Lipsomb head coach Don Meyer, Pepperdine assistant coach Randy Bennett, former Vanderbilt head coach Jan Van Breda Kolff, Viola head coach Dave Holmquist, and UCLA assistants Jim Saia and Michael Holton.

One school that isn't recruiting the three Nigerians - 6'10 Benjamin Eze Ndubuis, 6'11 Muhamed Lasege, and 7'0 Uche Okafor - is UCLA, because the Bruins can't recruit anybody unless they are academically qualified. And like every other school that is involved, UCLA can't get a transcript. There are also questions about whether they will ever get visas to get into the country, which reminds me of our International Editor Chris Johnson's original comments about these three big guys who are currently residing in Toronto. "Getting them eligible at a four year college in the United States may be more complicated than either Watergate or all the scandals involving Bill Clinton," says Johnson. As for UCLA, we now have confirmed that nobody plans to transfer (at least until the end of the current semester), but we still think it is too close to call on whether Baron Davis will declare hardship for the NBA draft. Does anybody know if he's going to class? That would be a sure-fire sign that he's leaving. We are still getting reports that UCLA is the leader for 6'7 Ryan Humphrey and they are in a lot better shape than most people realize on 6'5 Adam Harrington, who is transferring from N.C. State. They are also still waiting on 6'5 Kareem Rush from Kansas City (Pembroke Hill) MO.

Thursday, April 15, 1999

Everybody talks about the McDonald's All American Game, but Dinos Trigonis and Phil Gatton are building the Dada All-Star Classic (formerly the Eddie Jones All-Star Game), which will be held this Sunday at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion at 5:00 PM, into one of the premier all-star games in the nation. The U.S. All-Stars will feature 6'8 Jason Parker from Charlotte (West) NC, 6'7 Travis Watson from Mouth of Wilson (Oak Hill) VA, 6'10 Leon Smith from Chicago (Martin Luther King) IL, 7'1 Josh Moore from Oakdale (St. Thomas More) CT, 6'7 Chris Ogden from Seminole (H.S.) TX, 6'5 Marshall Williams from Milwaukee (Vincent) WI, 6'5 Josh Kroenke from New Hampton (Prep) NH, 6'5 Kareem Rush from Kansas City (Pembroke Hill) MO, 6'4 Marcus Moore from Compton (Dominguez) CA, 6'3 John Cox from Philadelphia (Engineering & Science) PA, 6'3 Kirk Hinrich from Sioux City (West) IA, 6'2 Demetrius Hunter from Las Vegas (Cheyenne) NV, and 6'2 Marlon Parmer from Los Angeles (Verbum Dei) CA. The West All-Star will feature 6'4 Keith Gaines from Las Vegas (Clark) NV, 6'5 Jamaal Crawford from Seattle (Rainier Beach) WA, 6'4 Tito Maddox from Compton (H.S.) CA, 6'11 Curtis Borchardt from Redmond (Eastlake) WA, 6'9 Andrew Gooden from El Cerrito (H.S.) CA, 6'8 Justin Davis from Alameda (St. Joseph) CA, 6'8 Donnell Knight from Tempe (Corona Del Sol) AZ, 6'5 Keith Kincade from Compton (Dominguez) CA, 6'5 Brian Wethers from Murrieta Valley (Murrieta) CA, 6'9 Chris Osborne from Los Angeles (Westchester) CA, 6'5 Joe Shipp from Los Angeles (Fairfax) CA, 6'3 Gilbert Arenas from Van Nuys (Grant) CA, and 6'1 Julius Barnes from Rowland Heights (Rowland) CA.

When you put as much information out you're bound to make mistake or miss on something once in a while, but finding out that 6'9 Jason Parker from Charlotte (West Charlotte) NC signed with North Carolina two days after the fact isn't good. That's why I tell my people to never assume that I already have something - call me anyway. I'm also amazed that I never got an email or a call from any of our subscribers, who are usually a great source of information and often tip us off when something is going down. Another thing we missed on was Duke's William Avery being a McDonald's All-American. Apparently Avery, who announced earlier today that he plans to enter his name into the NBA draft, should have been. But after checking with the folks at Sports America, which runs the game, earlier this week, we found out that he was not named to the team two years ago when he was a high school senior. Speaking of Duke players going early to the NBA, it was Elton Brand yesterday, Avry today, and perhaps Corey Maggette in the near future. We think it is likely, but not 100% yet. We are also told that our information about Maggette meeting with the Bulls and being offered $8.5 million was incorrect, although we have confirmed that he was back in Chicago, IL (which is where he is from) recently. The second source is better than our original source, but we are not ready to retract it just yet. Why, because we believe that our original source has credibility and our second source may have a hidden agenda. However, if our second source wants to go on record, then it becomes a different story.

The two Lithuanians - 6'8 Donatas Zavackas and 6'11 Robertas Javtokas - both from Akron (St. Vincent-St. Mary) OH are expected to make their first official on-campus visits this weekend to Valparaiso, according to Chris Johnson, our Ohio and International Editor. Zavackas will also visit Clemson next week, followed by West Virginia and Pittsburgh soon after. Utah also is still in the hunt and may get the fifth and final visit. Javtokas will also make official visits Arizona, Tulane, Utah, and UNC-Charlotte. He also plans to make an unofficial visit to Louisville, while in town next weekend for the Derby Classic. Javtokas' his older brother - 6'9 Arturas Javtokas from Western Nebraska (JC) NE - is also currently going through the recruiting process. He is scheduled to take official visits to Florida State and Georgia, but Johnson believes he's a lock for Clemson. Speaking of players from Lithuania, Johnson also tells us that 6'5 Nerijus Puida from Weatherford (JC) TX has signed with Hawaii.

Our New York City Editor Ron Naclerio has now confirmed that Rhode Island interim head coach Jerry Degregorio has been named the head coach on a permament basis. The press conferenece will be tomorrow afternoon. As a result, we think the odds of Lamar Odom staying at Rhode Island and playing another year of college basketball just increased dramatically. However, we are now hearing that Kentucky's 6'10 Jamaal Magloire will follow in the footsteps of Nahz Mohammed and declare for the NBA draft a year earlier, which may explain why Kentucky has been so actively looking for another big man. Among the likely candidates are 6'7 Anthony Evans from Neosho County (JC) KS, 6'7 Shon Coleman from Indian Hills (JC) IA, and 6'9 Nate Knight from Utah Valley (JC) UT. Kentucky is also recruiting three Nigerians - 6'9 Benjamin Eze Ndubuisi, 6'11 Muhamed Lasege, and 7'0 Uche Okafor - who are currently living in Toronto, Canada. So are a number of other schools including UCLA, Ohio State, Georgia Tech, Michigan, and Syracuse, but Louisville may be the leader, thanks to all the foreign contacts that Louisville assistant coach Vince Taylor brought to the program when he was hired a year ago. "They are strongly leaning toward the University of Louisville," is what Slavko Duric, a businessmen in Canada who appears to be the person running the recruitment of all three players, told the Louisville Courier-Journal. In article that appeared this morning by Ashley McGeachy, she also quoted Duric saying, "Louisville probably will land at least two of them. Which two I don't know, but the common denominator is Ben."  However, Louisville head coach Denny Crum shouldn't count his chickens before they hatch. Remember, last weekend these players were supposed to play on a team in the Solon Cage Classic, but the team didn't show because they couldn't get visas into the United States. Also there are academic questions, which remain unanswered. When you start inquiring into their grades and transcripts, several sources have told us that you can't get any straight answers. "It's almost like they don't want to understand you. Like you suddenly started speaking a foreign language." Another source thinks that Duric may be just using these players to get wined and dined. But in the end, they will all turn professional and never play a day of college. Others question whether they are good enough. Ezendubuisi appears to be good enough to step into any college program and make an immediate impact, but the reports Lasege and Okafor very widely depending upon who you talk to. However, we may find out in a week, because there is talk that Lasege and Okafor may be added to the rosters of the Derby Classic Game, which is scheduled for Saturday, April 24th. Ezendubuisi is already on the roster to play in the game, but it isn't 100% certain that he will obtain a visa.

Also of particular interest is the situation involving 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI. Last night we had a very reliable source who told us that Gaines had finally picked Maryland over Louisville, but so far we have heard nothing more to confirm this. However, we do know that Louisville told 5'11 Kevin Paschel from Louisville (Pleasure Ridge Park) KY today that they will him the scholarship they had earmarked for Gaines, if Gaines picks Maryland. But we still think Paschel will sign with Murray State. We also think the Racers will get 6'4 Chris Shumate from Louisville (Male) KY. Our Ohio Editor Chris Johnson tells us that Purdue is on the verge of getting a commitment today from 6'9 Adam Wetzel from Keokuka (H.S.) IA. Apparently, Wetzel committed to Dayton earlier in the month, but was at Purdue for an official visit the last several days. We also have confirmed that 6'11 Trevor Harvey from Freeport (Catholic) Bahamas has committed to South Carolina and the University of Utah has landed one of the top junior college players in the nation in 6'2 Trent Whiting from Snow (JC) UT, who now appears to be the heir apparent to Andre Miller at point guard for the Utes.

Wednesday, April 14, 1999

Our Ohio Editor Chris Johnson has been busy keeping up with recent signings and he tells us that 6'3 Aaron Abrams from Vista (Rancho Buena Vista) CA has not gone to San Jose State, as was earlier reported. Instead, Abrams has signed with Wyoming. Kent appears to have a steal in 6'0 Blake Johnson from Jamestown (JC) NY. Ryan McDermott originally signed with Arizona State several years ago, but this 6'9 power forward instead went the professional baseball route, at least until recently when he was involved in a car accident that apparently has effected his pitching arm. So he's coming back to basketball and he's an absolute steal of New Mexico State. If you will recall, he was borderline top 100 player as a senior in high school. Georgetown has gotten 6'5 Jason Burns from Las Vegas (Durango) NV, who ranks #382 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP. Xavier is still looking for a big man and 6'9, 245 lbs. Marcus Mason from Santa Monica (JC) CA is visiting this weekend. Mason's other schools are Fresno State, Auburn, Oregon, and Hawaii. Dayton signed 6'3 Nucleus Smith from Pontiac (Northern) MI. Baylor gets 6'2 Demetreis Sims from McLennan (JC) TX, 6'3 Lamont Frazier from Lon Morris (JC) TX has committed to Arizona, and 6'9 Henry Williams from Mobile (LeFlore) AL is heading to South Alabama. As expected, Eastern Kentucky got 6'9 Chris Garnett from Durham (Mt. Zion Christian) NC and Kansas State 6'0 has signed Galen Morrison from Iowa Western (JC) IA and 6'9 Kelvin Howell from Westark (JC) AR.

The HOOP SCOOP now has a source that we feel is very reliable who tells us that 6'5 Reece Gaines from Madison (West) WI has finally reached a decision on his college choice and will announce for Maryland tomorrow. However, it wouldn't be a total shock if he changed his mind again. If you will recall, a week ago he told the officials who run the Capital Classic that he planned to make an announcement last week while in Washington, DC for the game. Obviously this led everybody to believe he would pick Maryland, but it didn't happen. Then, we thought Louisville would be the likely choice, especially after his mother told the local media that she wanted her son to sign with Louisville. But unless something changes between now and tomorrow, we think it's over! Write it down! Gaines is going to Maryland. Mitch Malone, Editor and Publisher of the Texas Blue Chip Report tells us that 6'9 Jeremy McNeil from San Antonio (Sam Houston) TX, who has improved dramatically in the last six months and now ranks among our top 50 nationally, will visit Syracuse this weekend, UNLV next weekend, and then make a decision. Right now it is too close to call. Texas A&M has gotten another major steal in 6'11 Andy Slocum from West Monroe (H.S.) LA. He picked the Aggies over Utah, Florida State, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Texas, Michigan, USC, Oklahoma, and Tulane. It had been reported earlier today that Iowa was at the top of the list for Luke Recker, who is transferring from Indiana. We've also heard Tennessee and Virginia mentioned for Recker, but the real list is Florida, Missouri, and Arizona and I guarantee my source is better than yours. We're hearing that Keith Bean, who is transferring from N.C. State, may end up at Miami-FL and there is also speculation that Adam Harrington will end up at Miami-FL with Bean as part of the package. However, it's too early to predict that for Harrington, because our sources say he's wide open - Kentucky, Miami-FL, Missouri, Connecticut, Iowa, UCLA, and Massachusetts are all on his list. We also are getting reports that Kevin Houston is leaving Miami-FL, Circus King and Carl Boyd are both transferring from California, and Maurice Sessoms won't be staying at the University of Wisconsin.

It's transfer time! Our New York City Editor Ron Naclerio tells us that 6'9 Eric Williams is leaving Syracuse and that he likely will transfer to Iona. Obviously this would be a great addition for the Gaels. Sources on the West Coast tell us that Greg Lakey is transferring from USC to Loyola-Marymount. We're now getting reports that Luke Recker is leaving Indiana, but as of yet, we don't have a list of schools. If recall, Recker committed to Indiana as a junior and, as a result, never really went through the recruiting process. Sources close the UCLA program think that the Bruins are in good shape with Ryan Humphrey, who is leaving Oklahoma. Which may mean that if Chris Burgess leaves Duke, he'll like pick Utah or Missouri, despite the fact Burgess' girlfriend goes to UCLA and his best friend is a student manager for the UCLA Basketball team. But the most intriguing transfer is Adam Harrington, who is leaving N.C. State. A lot of schools are calling, but Kentucky woud be the perfect fit. Remember, the Wildcats were one of the top schools on his list the first time around and he's exactly what they need - a 6'5 combo guard with an excellent handle, surprisely good speed and quickness off the dribble, and lights out shooting range. Also on his list are Miami-FL, Missouri, Connecticut, Iowa, UCLA, and Massachusetts. There are lots of strong rumors that Michigan State Doug Davis is planning to transfer from Michigan State. This is also interesting because it would free up a scholarship for head coach Tom Izzo to land another recruit. The speculation is that the will try get back involved with 6'6 Lavell Blanchard from Ann Arbor (Pioneer) MI, who ranks #9 nationally by the HOOP SCOOP. It's the 11th hour in Blanchard's recruitment, but the speculation is that he would be interested in playing on the same team with Michigan State recruit Jason Richardson and star point guard Mateen Cleaves, who just happens to be his cousin.

Our Mid-South Editor Jim Rothman is reporting that the University of Memphis has signed 6'10 Earl Barron from Clarksdale (H.S.) MS. While Rothman hasn't seen him play, he does know that neither Mississippi State or Mississippi offered. "He's young for his age, but he needs to gain weight and strength," says Rothman. "Currently he only weights about 210 lbs." Rothman is also reporting that Dinno Daniels leaves has decided to transfer. The leading candidate to replace Daniels appears to be 6'1 Jamie Rosser from Northwest Mississippi (JC) MS. But Rothman tells us that this one isn't over yet. "Memphis got in late and they have to beat schools like Utah, Texas, and Minnesota. But Memphis is still the favorite, because it's home. He was the high school teammate of Marcus Moody at Overton High School." Rothman also thinks Memphis has a legitimate shot at 6'8 Marcus Haislip from Lewisburg (Marshall County) TN, who was at Alabama last weekend. However, we still think schools like Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and Kentucky will be tough to beat.

St. John's has already landed 6'4 Shariff Fordham from Gulf Coast (JC) FL and 6'9 Jeff Wolfinger from Reading (Joel Barlow) CT and they appear to be the leader over DePaul and Providence for 6'7 Liberto Tetimadingar from Paris, France. They also are still in the hunt for 6'9 Abraham Keita from Winchendon (School) MA, but next year is the make or break recruiting class for the Red Storm program. As it stands now, they have 11 scholarship players in the program, but Ron Artest has already announced that he's gone to the NBA and Tyrone Grant is a senior. Which means they can bring in Fordham and Wolfinger and two more this year. Then, next year they will lose Collin Charles, Chudney Gray, Lavor Postell, Albert Richardson, and Bootsy Thornton, so they will have five scholarships to give, plus any they don't use this year. Obviously getting one of the three great point guards - 6'1Jr Omar Cook from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY, 6'1 Jr Taliek Brown from Astoria (St. John's Prep) NY, and 5'9 Jr Andre Barrett from New York (Rice) NY - in New York City will be a priority. They also are involved with 6'8 Jr Kyle Cuffe from New York (Rice) NY, 6'8 Jr J.C. Mathis from Bronx (Kennedy) NY, 6'7 Jr Zach Williams from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY, 6'10 Jr Mohammed Diakite from Rockville (Montrose Christian) MD, and 6'8 Jeff McMillan from Oakdale (St. Thomas More) CT, who is expected to return to prep school for another year.

Head coach Tom Abatemarco only won three games last year at Sacramento State, but they should be dramatically next year, because the players he brought in a year ago in a recruiting class that was ranked #43 nationally are a year older now. Plus he's added three more junior college players to the two - 6'8 Tony Champion from Oakland (Bishop O'Dowd) CA and 6'9 Bo Segberg from Wrightwood (H.S.) CA - he signed in the fall. Pueblo Gonzales, the 6'5 wing forward from American River (JC) CA, and 6'6 Ricky Glenn from Lasson (JC) CA were both named first team All-California Junior College and 6'0 Reme Battea from Riverside (JC) CA is expected to provide immediate help at point guard. With this in mind, don't be surprised if Abatemarco, who recently was given a contract extention, is the leading candidate for coach of the year in the Big Sky Conference next year, as the Hornets should be one of the most improved teams in college basketball.

Can you believe that 6'1 Jave Meade from Middle Village (Christ the King) NY, who great defender and great kid, doesn't have a single Division I offer? Not only is this excellent combo guard a legitimate mid-major player, but he has both the grades and the necessary test score to get into almost any school in the nation. Our New York City Editor Ron Naclerio tells us that 6'4 Roy