2013 Recruits

[don23lucia]

With Hill, Walker, and Rimmer committed and a lot of high profile recruits still in the mix, how can we fit anyone else and what do you think the odds of us landing anyone else, it seems we are on the verge of landing some major recruits in the next few years starting with this class and next years.

Its just crazy that Parker and Randle have mentioned us in the mix and now it seems that a few more guards are giving us some added interest.

SG Keith Frazier (Dallas, Texas/Kimball High), ESPN's No. 19 rated recruit in 2013, tells tells Scout.com that his list of favorite schools recently expanded by one.

I got a new school in Florida, Frazier said. I really like Florida a lot. They are at least top two or top three right now. I still have Texas A&M involved big, SMU involved, and Arizona is still in the mix.?

Rated the No. 3 shooting guard in the class, Frazier is a huge recruit for all of the schools he's considering -- if the hometown Mustangs can land him, it'd be a big win for Larry Brown and his staff. But today's story indicates that the Gators could be tough to beat. "I just feel that I could get something going with Kasey Hill and Chris Walker down there,? Frazier told the website. "I feel I could fit in at the two over there, and I am just trying to see where I fit."

We'll continue to keep you informed with any further developments in Frazier's recruitment.




Wayne Selden (Boston, Mass./Tilton) has cut his list down to six and will trim it to five before taking official visits.
Those schools for the five-star Selden, in no particular order: Florida, Kansas, Missouri, Ohio State, Syracuse and UCLA. Ranked No. 13 in the ESPN 100, Selden poses matchup problems as a 6-foot-5 shooting guard.
Here’s what he had to say about each school:

Florida: “I like them because they have great guard play. They have a great up-tempo offense and Billy Donovan is a great coach that has won championships.”

Ohio State: “I like Ohio State because they run an NBA offense and are great at player development. Thad Matta is a heck of a coach. Winning schools that are always competing for national championships always stand out.”

UCLA: “[Coach] Ben Howland does a great job of developing his guards. They’re a big program on the rise.”

Kansas: “I like Bill Self. He’s a great coach with a winning tradition and they have a great offensive tempo.”

Missouri: “They have a really fast style of play offensively and defensively. There are a few of my guys that go there [Alex Oriakhi and Dominique Bull went to Tilton] as well.”

Syracuse: “They always have great guard play. It’s a great place to be if you’re a guard.”

As for cutting the list down, Selden isn’t sure when to take official visits or even when to commit.
He does know that whoever gets him, will get a no-nonsense guard ready for action.
“I’m still talking with my family if I want to do November or sign in the spring,” Selden said. “I’m going to work hard and push everyone around me. I’m going to push myself.”
Right now, Selden says there is no leader among his six.
He recently reclassified from the Class of 2014 back to 2013.


There are a ton other recruits with offers still out there also which makes it all that much more interesting. These are just two articles that I noticed over the last day or so.

[GothamGator]

We are definitely looking to get 4 guys in the 2013 class, and certainly will make extra room for another top rated player in a "+1" type of scenario.

The 2013 class is looking like a monster already.

[jshaas]

so who can we add?

[InstiGATOR1]

We are definitely looking to get 4 guys in the 2013 class, and certainly will make extra room for another top rated player in a "+1" type of scenario.

The 2013 class is looking like a monster already.

That is my view too, though I have no inside sources in the program. I could see UF taking a SG and then if Randle, more likely, or Parker want to come, you make room for them.

[don23lucia]

Seldon is a big guard and very physical I have seen him play a few times this season and he would be a huge get, I dont remember what he was ranked in 2014 before he reclassified but I know he was up there. I dont know much about Fraizer, going to have to see what I can find online.

If somehow we land Randle or Parker I dont how the coaches will divvy up the playing time.

[BLING]

According to another network. These 2013 guys are all visiting, potentially all for the LSU game, along with commits Hill, Walker, and Rimmer. Five 5* basketball recruits and a high 4* on campus at the same time. :whoa: :whoa:

Our football team better put on a good show. :nervous smile:

Julius Randle
Isaac Hamilton
Keith Frazier
Kuran Iverson

[BLING]

Seldon is a big guard and very physical I have seen him play a few times this season and he would be a huge get, I dont remember what he was ranked in 2014 before he reclassified but I know he was up there. I dont know much about Fraizer, going to have to see what I can find online.

If somehow we land Randle or Parker I dont how the coaches will divvy up the playing time.

Well that's a big if, and would be a nice problem to have. We had that problem in 2005-2007.

Basically it would be 2 established veteran transfers vs 2 "one and done" freshmen to start in the front court, and Rimmer is a pretty good prespect as well. The only unfortunate thing is even if we get these guys, most likely they will not have a year to "get ready" like the 04's had. Most likely if we want to win a championship it's 2014 or bust for Hill/Walker and if we got Randle.

[InstiGATOR1]

Well let me take a stab at the board:

PG: HILL
SG: Croaker, Frazier, Hamilton, Hubbs, Selden, Thornwell
SF: Parker, Iverson
PF: Jefferson, Randle, C. WALKER
C: Embid, RIMMER

I read Embid visited UF recently. I don't really know about UF's interest in Croaker. Has Hubbs eliminated UF?

[StrangeGator]

Surprised we're going for four. I thought we were moving on to the 2014 class. Lot of talented kids in that class liking the Gators. But class of '13 guys get on the court sooner and three of them might even be gone before the class of '14 gets on campus.

[themistocles]

This is very curious to me since the 2012 group numbers 6 counting the transfers, perhaps all of whom are stayers, barring transfer.

How many of these 5 star guys are willing to "walk" on. I guess if you mom gets a $150,000 per year job at a place like YellowWood, or one of the Used Car places in Gainesville, that becomes more likely.

Human nature is such a curious phenomenon.

[InstiGATOR1]

Well it appears to me that UF is willing to go to at least 5. I am not surprised that UF would go to 4.

I do think part of the reason Donovan wants a larger class in 2013 is that two of the 3 members may well not be around for 2014. Keep in mind, that barring an injury induced redshirt, UF will lose at least 7 players, Boynton, Murphy, Prather, Rosario, Wilbekin, Yeguete and Young after the next two season. So UF needs to be preparing for 2014-15 years out now.

[Bullis33]

While we have some good top targets for 2014, the 14 class nationally is WAY down compared to 2013, yet another reason we are pushing for 4 in 2013

[jeffphillips21]

you mean the talent level drops considerably after Andrew Wiggins? He's a beast. Be a shame to see him go to UK, would love a crack at him

[33hoop]

you mean the talent level drops considerably after Andrew Wiggins? He's a beast. Be a shame to see him go to UK, would love a crack at him

Wiggins will most likely reclassify to the 2013 class.

[jeffphillips21]

I've heard that too. with his talent level makes sense. wonder if that means 2 and done since he wouldn't be draft age until his sophomore year.

[Juggernautz]

According to another network. These 2013 guys are all visiting, potentially all for the LSU game, along with commits Hill, Walker, and Rimmer. Five 5* basketball recruits and a high 4* on campus at the same time. :whoa: :whoa:

Our football team better put on a good show. :nervous smile:

Julius Randle
Isaac Hamilton
Keith Frazier
Kuran Iverson

I hope it's a close game at least.

[don23lucia]

Last weekend, I had a chance to corner Julius Randle (Dallas/Prestonwood Academy), No. 3 overall in the 2013 class, and talk to him about hoops and his recruitment. Shortly afterward, he went and won the Elite 24 slam dunk competition and was an MVP in the game.

Two days later, Randle said he was considering 10 schools (notice I didn’t say “trim” because 10 schools is a lot to have on a list in September). The 6-foot-9 power forward will decide amongst Florida, Baylor, Duke, Kansas, Kentucky, North Carolina, NC State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Texas.

Here is the Q&A I had with him:

Where does the intensity come from?
"I just want to be the best player on the court. It comes from just watching great players like Kobe, LeBron and KD; you see what they do. Me as a competitor watching them it motivates me and I’m a self motivator."

There’s not much intensity out here, so what’s the Elite 24 like?
"This is more fun, it’s not too much of a reality of what basketball is. You aren’t going to face too much adversity out there. It’s more of an honor and you just want to enjoy yourself."

Over the years, who gave you the most trouble?
"Aquille Carr is always hard to play against. Andrew Wiggins, he’s tough. I’d say the player that I least expected to be that hard when we played against him was Tyus Jones. How he plays, he’s kind of like Chris Paul, he makes no mistakes on the court and it seems like he plays a perfect game. I really enjoyed playing against him."

When you look at colleges, what are the pieces that have to be there for you?
"Point guard, shooters and another big man. That’s pretty much it. I want guys who are going to play hard with me." How much has Matt Jones (Duke commit) leaned on you?
"He’s leaned on me a little bit. Matt’s a good person. He doesn’t care where I go. He’s a good person and a good friend. He wants me to come with him but down inside I know he wants what’s best for me."

Do you have a place in mind that you think is going to be hard to beat?
"It’s been like that at times but it’s changed from place to place. Then I say I want to go here and then six months later I want to go here. Sometimes I do, but my mind changes a lot. I just have to sit down and study the system."

What happens when you switch back and forth on a favorite?
"Maybe you see a player that’s gone there and done well or it’s the coach who is the hottest. You may go take a visit and say this is the place for me. Then once you sit down and think about it you have to take the emotional stuff out of it and think about a business decision."

You recently snuck up to Oklahoma State. Are they in there?
"For sure. I played with Marcus Smart on the USA Team and their coaches talk to me a lot. They kept texting Jeff Webster and he brought me up there. They have the best locker room, it’s a two-story locker room and it’s the best one I’ve ever seen."

Is the plan to wait until the spring?
Probably in the spring to see what players are going there, see what coaches leave and it gives me a last time to really study the system and see what kind of offense they run. It gives me time to look. I’ll probably save some of my visits; I want to go to some basketball games."

What’s been the best experience?
"USA Basketball. It was the longest time I was away from home. A lot of those guys are going to be freshman in college. I played for college coaches and it was the first time I went overseas. We bonded with other players and people I don’t usually hang out with. It helped me mature."
What’s the process been like?
"I’ve had fun with all of it. I don’t think I’ve stepped on too many toes. You don’t want everybody to think you don’t like them. You want to make everyone happy. I don’t want to be a jerk about it. I just want to be as civil as I can."



Reading between the lines here but it seems to work in our favor so far:joecool:

[REM08]

Not sure I've seen anyone talk about Tony Trocha on here, but he's another guy Donovan has offered. He'd be eligible in December. I'm not sure what this would mean for scholarships.

http://www.zagsblog.com/2012/08/30/tony-trocha-holds-major-offers/

[InstiGATOR1]

1. I agree those quotations from Randle are very encouraging. Of course I am a natural optimist.

2. I saw the Zagoria posting on Trocha. I am skeptical that UF could make room for him second semester this year. I could see a spot for him next year possibly.

[GatorPlanet]

Make no mistake, recruits are seeing the Gators in back-to-back Elite 8 games, and realizing that the program is that good and is gonna stay that good, and the 2 national championships were not a fluke.

The future gets brighter every day.

[HALLGATOR]

Last weekend, I had a chance to corner Julius Randle (Dallas/Prestonwood Academy), No. 3 overall in the 2013 class, and talk to him about hoops and his recruitment. Shortly afterward, he went and won the Elite 24 slam dunk competition and was an MVP in the game.

Two days later, Randle said he was considering 10 schools (notice I didn’t say “trim” because 10 schools is a lot to have on a list in September). The 6-foot-9 power forward will decide amongst Florida, Baylor, Duke, Kansas, Kentucky, North Carolina, NC State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Texas.

Here is the Q&A I had with him:

Where does the intensity come from?
"I just want to be the best player on the court. It comes from just watching great players like Kobe, LeBron and KD; you see what they do. Me as a competitor watching them it motivates me and I’m a self motivator."

There’s not much intensity out here, so what’s the Elite 24 like?
"This is more fun, it’s not too much of a reality of what basketball is. You aren’t going to face too much adversity out there. It’s more of an honor and you just want to enjoy yourself."

Over the years, who gave you the most trouble?
"Aquille Carr is always hard to play against. Andrew Wiggins, he’s tough. I’d say the player that I least expected to be that hard when we played against him was Tyus Jones. How he plays, he’s kind of like Chris Paul, he makes no mistakes on the court and it seems like he plays a perfect game. I really enjoyed playing against him."

When you look at colleges, what are the pieces that have to be there for you?
"Point guard, shooters and another big man. That’s pretty much it. I want guys who are going to play hard with me." How much has Matt Jones (Duke commit) leaned on you?
"He’s leaned on me a little bit. Matt’s a good person. He doesn’t care where I go. He’s a good person and a good friend. He wants me to come with him but down inside I know he wants what’s best for me."

Do you have a place in mind that you think is going to be hard to beat?
"It’s been like that at times but it’s changed from place to place. Then I say I want to go here and then six months later I want to go here. Sometimes I do, but my mind changes a lot. I just have to sit down and study the system."

What happens when you switch back and forth on a favorite?
"Maybe you see a player that’s gone there and done well or it’s the coach who is the hottest. You may go take a visit and say this is the place for me. Then once you sit down and think about it you have to take the emotional stuff out of it and think about a business decision."

You recently snuck up to Oklahoma State. Are they in there?
"For sure. I played with Marcus Smart on the USA Team and their coaches talk to me a lot. They kept texting Jeff Webster and he brought me up there. They have the best locker room, it’s a two-story locker room and it’s the best one I’ve ever seen."

Is the plan to wait until the spring?
Probably in the spring to see what players are going there, see what coaches leave and it gives me a last time to really study the system and see what kind of offense they run. It gives me time to look. I’ll probably save some of my visits; I want to go to some basketball games."

What’s been the best experience?
"USA Basketball. It was the longest time I was away from home. A lot of those guys are going to be freshman in college. I played for college coaches and it was the first time I went overseas. We bonded with other players and people I don’t usually hang out with. It helped me mature."
What’s the process been like?
"I’ve had fun with all of it. I don’t think I’ve stepped on too many toes. You don’t want everybody to think you don’t like them. You want to make everyone happy. I don’t want to be a jerk about it. I just want to be as civil as I can."



Reading between the lines here but it seems to work in our favor so far:joecool:


Thanks for posting this. Keep up the good work.

[gatorfan12]

Obviously we are going to find a way to take 5 if Randle or Parker want in. But out of Kuran Iverson, Isaac Hamilton, and Keith Frazier which one is at the top of your list?

Just based off highlight videos, I would go with Hamilton. Would gladly take Kuran Iverson or Keith Frazier though.

[don23lucia]

I like Wayne Seldon above all those guys not named Parker or Randle. We've never had a guard like him here. He attacks the basket so hard and is big enough to do it in college as well, he's just a bull.

[gatorfan12]

I like Wayne Seldon above all those guys not named Parker or Randle. We've never had a guard like him here. He attacks the basket so hard and is big enough to do it in college as well, he's just a bull.

So do I, but do we have a good shot at him? I know Frazier, Hamilton, and Iverson have us in there top 3 or top 5. I know we are on Seldon's top list, but I thought he has yet to narrow it down too much.

[InstiGATOR1]

I like Wayne Seldon above all those guys not named Parker or Randle. We've never had a guard like him here. He attacks the basket so hard and is big enough to do it in college as well, he's just a bull.

So do I, but do we have a good shot at him? I know Frazier, Hamilton, and Iverson have us in there top 3 or top 5. I know we are on Seldon's top list, but I thought he has yet to narrow it down too much.

Yeah it is hard for me to know who among the SGs to like. This is compounded by not knowing how M. Frazier and Graham are looking and how they will look on the court. Still I would be happy with any of the SG, K. Frazier, Hamilton, Hubbs if UF is really in on him, or Seldon.

I view Randle, Parker and Iverson in another group that UF would take the first two, if they want to come and might take Iverson if neither of the other two want to come. But then I am just guessing as a complete outsider.

[tampajack1]

At the City of Palms, Seldon played the point a good part of the time. IMO, he was the best point guard at that tournament. As I said quite a while ago, Nerlen Noels was the 3rd best player on his high school team, behind Seldon and George Niiang. Of course, Noels has the big upside.

[wci347]

How about this 7th grader. 6'7"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_V2sd-qAqXU&feature=player_embedded

[wci347]

Iverson quite frankly looks like he has the most pure talent of them all.

[MoscowGtr]

Yeah it is hard for me to know who among the SGs to like. This is compounded by not knowing how M. Frazier and Graham are looking and how they will look on the court. Still I would be happy with any of the SG, K. Frazier, Hamilton, Hubbs if UF is really in on him, or Seldon.

I view Randle, Parker and Iverson in another group that UF would take the first two, if they want to come and might take Iverson if neither of the other two want to come. But then I am just guessing as a complete outsider.

What is interesting (to me, anyway) is that we are the "other team" for two of the three in what is otherwise a more regional recruitment. (This is not to say that the true 'national' programs do not want them; perhaps it is down to Billy's recruiting):

Frazier is a from TX and is considering the three TX schools, Arizona Mephis and us.
http://espn.go.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/104886/keith-frazier

Hamilton is from Los Angeles and is considering three CA schools plus UNLV, Washington and us. http://espn.go.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/102231/isaac-hamilton

Iverson does not fit the pattern quite so well, be he is also considering CT (in state school) and Memphis, which is somewhat closer than UF.

It will be interesting to see what happens. All three have one or more alternatives under consideration that are much closer to home and at least two of them seem to have a general preference for schools in the same region.

[don23lucia]

ST. LOUIS -- The Nike Elite 100, formerly known as the Hoop Jamboree, was the setting for a gathering of 100 elite underclassmen from around the nation. Previously, the event has been the launching pad for a number of big-time players, including former No. 1 overall NBA picks Greg Oden and Derrick Rose.

This year, Allerik Freeman (Charlotte, N.C./Olympic) and

Wayne Selden (Boston/Tilton School) emerged as candidates for top performer.


He is a big, strong power guard who is a natural scorer and a smooth playmaker. His size and strength make him an excellent rebounder for his position. Plus, he can create off the dribble and is a monster in transition. He also has excellent range on his shot and can shoot well beyond the 3-point line. Selden was perhaps the most dynamic player at the Nike Elite 100 and a definite top 10 player in the 2014 class.

from ESPN.com

[gatordd]

Selden is '13??

[don23lucia]

Selden is '13??

He re classed to 13.

[gatormann]

I like Wayne Seldon above all those guys not named Parker or Randle. We've never had a guard like him here. He attacks the basket so hard and is big enough to do it in college as well, he's just a bull.

Just the kind of guy you want if you want to play a three guard lineup.

[InstiGATOR1]

What is interesting (to me, anyway) is that we are the "other team" for two of the three in what is otherwise a more regional recruitment. (This is not to say that the true 'national' programs do not want them; perhaps it is down to Billy's recruiting):

Frazier is a from TX and is considering the three TX schools, Arizona Mephis and us.
http://espn.go.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/104886/keith-frazier

Hamilton is from Los Angeles and is considering three CA schools plus UNLV, Washington and us. http://espn.go.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/102231/isaac-hamilton

Iverson does not fit the pattern quite so well, be he is also considering CT (in state school) and Memphis, which is somewhat closer than UF.

It will be interesting to see what happens. All three have one or more alternatives under consideration that are much closer to home and at least two of them seem to have a general preference for schools in the same region.

I see what you are saying though with Frazier though 'Zona certainly considers itself to be a national power in basketball. They certainly had a nice class last year and have a well thought of young coach. Also Gainesville is about 40 miles further from Dallas than Tucson. [States out west are mostly much bigger than the ones in the east.]

Also Memphis is further from Winsor, CT where Iverson plays high school ball than Gainesvile, by a bit less than 100 miles.

The good thing is with M. Frazier and Graham frosh this year, K. Frazier or Hamilton or any SG is needed but hardly a dire need for 2013.

[don23lucia]

I just had a great conversation with Sonny Parker, father of Chicago Simeon small forward Jabari Parker, who said his son is excited about the home visits, which started Tuesday night when Florida coach Billy Donovan stopped by. They continue with DePaul coach Oliver Purnell visiting on Wednesday and Kansas coach Bill Self making the trip on Friday to the top-rated senior, while other programs are working on dates to visit the Parkers.

Once the in-home visits are complete, Sonny said that Jabari could be ready to trim his list of 10 -- Brigham Young, DePaul, Duke, Florida, Georgetown, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan State, North Carolina and Stanford -- down to five.

"I am looking for how the coaches explain their style of play to Jabari," said Sonny, who was drafted No. 17 overall in the 1976 NBA draft by the Golden State Warriors. "I want to see how the coaches are going to set up a player of Jabari's size (6-foot-8, 220 pounds) and talent so he can handle the ball on the break and in the half court. Jabari needs to be allowed to make plays."

And making plays is exactly what Jabari Parker can do. He has the ability to rebound, lead the break, come off screens, pick and pop to drive or shoot the 3. Not to mention, if his defender is smaller than him, he will attack from the low post, where he has the feel, moves and footwork of an NBA veteran and the basketball IQ to go with it.

It will be fun to see what schools make the cut for the most versatile and toughest matchup in the Class of 2013.

What he is looking to do offensively sounds like a perfect fit for us.

[InstiGATOR1]

Once the in-home visits are complete, Sonny said that Jabari could be ready to trim his list of 10 -- Brigham Young, DePaul, Duke, Florida, Georgetown, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan State, North Carolina and Stanford -- down to five.

Ok I wonder which 5 are likely to make this list? First can we put these teams in some times of groups? I can think of several overlapping categories:

1. Blue Bloods: UK, Duke, KU, UNC

2. Big national state universities: UF, Mich State, UNC

3. Private schools: BYU, DePaul, Georgetown, Stanford [Note I have read that he and his family are Mormon meaning maybe BYU should be in a category by itself.]

4. Broadly local programs for Parker: DePaul, Michigan State [I have read his father does not fly.]

I see UF's only advantage might be Mike Miller, Christian Drejer, Corey Brewer and Chandler Parsons. That is Donovan has the best history of playing 6'8"+ guys at the wing and letting them makes plays and take shots.

[tampajack1]

Ok I wonder which 5 are likely to make this list? First can we put these teams in some times of groups? I can think of several overlapping categories:

1. Blue Bloods: UK, Duke, KU, UNC

2. Big national state universities: UF, Mich State, UNC

3. Private schools: BYU, DePaul, Georgetown, Stanford [Note I have read that he and his family are Mormon meaning maybe BYU should be in a category by itself.]

4. Broadly local programs for Parker: DePaul, Michigan State [I have read his father does not fly.]

I see UF's only advantage might be Mike Miller, Christian Drejer, Corey Brewer and Chandler Parsons. That is Donovan has the best history of playing 6'8"+ guys at the wing and letting them makes plays and take shots.
Gators have several advantages over many of the listed schools. One advantage is Donovan and his coaching staff. A 2nd advantage is the talent that will be on the team in 2013. Parker can be a one-and-done and still win a national title at UF. Conceivably, he could be the starting 2-guard on a team with a lineup of Kasey Hill, Parker, Dorian Finney-Smith, Chris Walker and Damontre Harris. Wow!!!!!!!

[don23lucia]

Gators have several advantages over many of the listed schools. One advantage is Donovan and his coaching staff. A 2nd advantage is the talent that will be on the team in 2013. Parker can be a one-and-done and still win a national title at UF. Conceivably, he could be the starting 2-guard on a team with a lineup of Kasey Hill, Parker, Dorian Finney-Smith, Chris Walker and Damontre Harris. Wow!!!!!!!

sounds good to me!

props now throw in Seldon and Randle and we have FAB 5 2.0

[gatordd]

Gators have several advantages over many of the listed schools. One advantage is Donovan and his coaching staff. A 2nd advantage is the talent that will be on the team in 2013. Parker can be a one-and-done and still win a national title at UF. Conceivably, he could be the starting 2-guard on a team with a lineup of Kasey Hill, Parker, Dorian Finney-Smith, Chris Walker and Damontre Harris. Wow!!!!!!!

That lineup doesn't lose a single game when you add in the idea of Yeguete (SR) Braxton, Frazier, Wilbekin(SR), Larson, Rimmer, Prather(SR), Graham, Walker coming off the bench... And yeah that's 14 but the numbers always work out.

[don23lucia]

Florida coach Billy Donovan met with Chicago Simeon's Jabari Parker on Tuesday, and DePaul's Oliver Purnell was scheduled to meet Wednesday with the nation's top-ranked senior.

Kansas also will be one of the first schools to meet with Parker and his family.

The 6-foot-8 Parker released a list of 10 schools he was considering in July. His list featured BYU, DePaul, Duke, Florida, Georgetown, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan State, North Carolina and Stanford.

Florida did not make the original list, but Donovan continued to recruit Parker and was able to secure the in-home visit.

"I hope other people take notice of that," Simeon coach Robert Smith said Wednesday. "(Other schools) may have opportunities. You kill your opportunities if you don't try. Florida was there. I don't think (the Parker family) is going to waste anyone's time now. Anyone who gets in with the home visit, they have a real big chance of getting an opportunity to be looked at."

Illinois also did not make Parker's initial list, but Smith said Illini coach John Groce has continued to recruit Parker. Smith was unsure whether Groce would be given an in-home visit.

Purnell will make his pitch to Parker and his family Wednesday. Smith thought what DePaul had especially going for it was its location.

"You never know," Smith said. "He loves the state of Illinois."

Kansas coach Bill Self will make his visit Friday. Self has had success in the Chicago area in the past decade by recruiting Dee Brown to Illinois and Julian Wright and Sherron Collins to Kansas.

[StrangeGator]

Illinois also did not make Parker's initial list, but Smith said Illini coach John Groce has continued to recruit Parker. Smith was unsure whether Groce would be given an in-home visit.

Purnell will make his pitch to Parker and his family Wednesday. Smith thought what DePaul had especially going for it was its location.

"You never know," Smith said. "He loves the state of Illinois."

I get it that he might love Chicago, but the state of Illinois is little more than a giant cornfield stretching south and west of Chicago. Go to DePaul, or get the heck out of the midwest. Preferably to UF.

[don23lucia]

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruitingon-the-trail/post/_/id/2597/no-3-recruit-randle-talks-kentucky-visit

The nation's No. 3 recruit in the ESPN 100, senior power forward Julius Randle (Dallas, Texas/Prestonwood), returned home Sunday from Kentucky after his first official visit.

All senior prospects are allowed five official visits that last no longer than 48 hours, and Randle shared his itinerary and thoughts from his first experience, on which he was accompanied by his mother, Carolyn Kyles.

[+] Enlarge

Courtesy Lori Young
Julius Randle is ranked No. 3 overall in the 2013 class.On Friday, Randle had dinner at coach John Calipari's house with the staff and team and spent an evening with the Kentucky players. On Saturday he met with an academic adviser, went on a campus tour, attended the UK alumni game at Rupp Arena, attended Kentucky's football game against Western Kentucky and had dinner with the coaching staff. Later Saturday night he went to the practice facility and did some late-night shooting from 1:30-3 a.m. with some Kentucky players. And finally on Sunday he had breakfast with the staff and attended team practice before departing.

Here were his initial impressions from his first official visit.

On your first official campus visit, what were your thoughts going into the visit?
"I knew everything would be great. I went with my mom and I really wanted her to enjoy it and she did. Going into the visit my thoughts were to make sure I hung out with the players and really get to know them off the court. Also, it was important to for me and my mom to get to know the staff even better."

What were your first thoughts about UK as you headed back home?
"Family. Everybody is so together and for each other. Coach Calipari really cares about his players and helps them reach their goals and dreams."

What really stood out about your visit?
"The people. Coach Cal and his staff (Kenny Payne and Orlando Antigua) were very genuine. That stood out to me. In fact, all the people I met were really nice."

What was one of the best things you did on your visit?
"Me, Archie Goodwin and Julius Mays went to the practice facility and put up shots at 1:30 a.m. to about 3 a.m. I love having access to the practice facility when I want to go into the gym and shoot."

How well do you know the Kentucky players?
"I know a lot of them through the AAU circuit. Especially Archie Goodwin, Alex Poythress and of course Nerlens Noel. And I know Ryan Harrow a little bit."

Will you be signing early or late?
"Definitely late. I want to take my time with the decision -- see how the coaches coach and make visits during their season."

What are your plans for future visits?
"I was scheduled to visit Florida in October and now they want me to reschedule it during the season so I can attend a game. I am also looking at Duke, Kansas, UNC, N.C. State and Texas to visit."

What were your impressions of the Kentucky alumni game?
"The atmosphere was exciting and Kentucky has great fans."

What were your thoughts on Kentucky's practice?
"It was really good. It was the first time they could practice together as a team. You see how the players listen to coach Cal, and I really like their style of play. They go up and down and guys handle the ball. I definitely liked it."

[tampajack1]

Julius:

What were your thoughts on the football game?

[InstiGATOR1]

Well with the Randle visit UK reportedly offered 6'9" PF Marcus Lee. With recruiting it is hard to know if one has to do with the other.

BTW, Robert Hubbs to UTn. I think UTn is having a solid class and I suspect they get Nichols. The SEC in general is stocking up this year.

[MJGator8104]

What was one of the best things you did on your visit?
"Me, Archie Goodwin and Julius Mays went to the practice facility and put up shots at 1:30 a.m. to about 3 a.m. I love having access to the practice facility when I want to go into the gym and shoot."

Don't all schools allow their players access to the practice facility 24/7/365? Sincere question as I would have no idea whether this is true or not and if it isn't true for all schools, does UF?

[REM08]

Don't all schools allow their players access to the practice facility 24/7/365? Sincere question as I would have no idea whether this is true or not and if it isn't true for all schools, does UF?

I can't imagine a competitive D1 program not making their practice facility available to players 24/7. The kids want to practice the game they were recruited to play and they're not able? Can't picture this. Dont' know for sure tough.

[don23lucia]

ESPN.com has confirmed that power forward Schuyler Rimmer (Orlando, Fla./Boone) is no longer committed to Florida.

Rimmer was expected to walk on in Gainesville and then receive a scholarship as a sophomore. Notre Dame, Vanderbilt, Stanford and South Carolina are schools after the three-star player.

Billy Donovan's Gators remain the No. 1 class on ESPN.com with commitments from top-10 players Kasey Hill (Eustis, Fla./Montverde Academy) and Chris Walker (Bonifay, Fla./Holmes County).

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/on-the-trail/post?id=2619

[CoachSayre]

Don't all schools allow their players access to the practice facility 24/7/365? Sincere question as I would have no idea whether this is true or not and if it isn't true for all schools, does UF?
Yes they can come in at anytime. They have cards.

[your_perfect_enemy]

Don't all schools allow their players access to the practice facility 24/7/365? Sincere question as I would have no idea whether this is true or not and if it isn't true for all schools, does UF?

maybe he's comparing it to high school? I bet some schools that don't have a dedicated practice facility have restrictions even for their players, like when we used to practice on the auxillary courts in the O-dome. I'm using that more as an example of how the situation would arise probably wasn't the case for us

[MJGator8104]

Yes they can come in at anytime. They have cards.

Thanks. His quote about his favorite part of the trip seemed to imply that he isn't aware that practice facilities are available anytime he wants in college. As your_perfect_enemy stated, his HS probably didn't allow practice 24/7. Hopefully, he'll have a better understanding about this by the time or at least after he visits UF. UK doesn't need any additional help with recruiting...

[Gator Mike]

FWIW, a little bird tells me that when Jabari Parker narrows his list to five schools, Florida will make the cut.

They're probably fifth, but they've still got a shot.

[don23lucia]

FWIW, a little bird tells me that when Jabari Parker narrows his list to five schools, Florida will make the cut.

They're probably fifth, but they've still got a shot.

Thanks for the inside scoop hopefully we make a run.

[don23lucia]

Senior shooting guard Keith Frazier (Dallas/Kimball), the No. 19 overall player in the ESPN 100, is one of the best shooters/scorers in the country regardless of class.

Right now Frazier likes Providence, Florida, Texas, Texas A&M, LSU, Arizona, SMU and Memphis. Frazier will likely commit in April, which will allow him to get a better feel for programs, coaches and players. Without a doubt he will be a prime target for many elite programs.

[+] Enlarge

Courtesy of Anthony Scott Kurtz
Keith Frazier is ranked No. 19 overall in the 2013 class.
"I am looking for a school where I can instantly play big-time minutes, the coach is loyal and with me when I do something good or bad, and someone that can help me get to the next level. Make me a pro," Frazier said.

Frazier played on the travel circuit with DJH5 and Houston Hoops. At 6-foot-5 and about 190 pounds, he is the type of guard who can get hot from deep. He spots up on the break, comes off screens and spaces to the open area on the side of dribble penetration. He shoots over smaller defenders with ease and has continued to improve at making plays off the bounce as well.

Frazier is a true shooting guard and fun to watch when he gets in a groove. Against man or zone, the defense better know where Frazier is at all times.

"I am a pretty good scorer, but I have to work on my on-ball defense," Frazier said. "But it is getting better."

Frazier has taken a few unofficial visits, but no officials or any in-home visits yet. He has been preparing to take the SAT on Oct. 27 and said school is going extremely well and that his favorite class is pre-calculus right now. "I have really started to like math," Frazier said.

Frazier has a special offensive skill in his ability to shoot, and this skill is at the top of coaches' lists when discussing prospects in a recruiting meeting. No doubt Frazier is at the top of many shooting guard lists that are on the board in many coaching staff conference rooms.

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruitingnational/post/_/id/3629/espn-100-sg-frazier-likes-eight

[don23lucia]

CHICAGO -- Simeon Career Academy forward Jabari Parker, the nation's No. 1-ranked senior, has added Connecticut to the list of schools he's considering, his father said on Thursday.


Parker released a list of 10 schools in July, and it included BYU, DePaul, Duke, Florida, Georgetown, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan State, North Carolina and Stanford.


ESPNChicago.com Colleges blog
The latest news and notes on the local college scene. Blog
Connecticut coach Kevin Ollie, who recently replaced longtime coach Jim Calhoun, will visit Parker's home in Chicago next week, said Parker's father, Sonny Parker.

"It was Jabari's decision," Sonny Parker said. "He's picking all the schools for the home visits. He's talked to Coach Calhoun previously before. That's one of the schools that showed some interest to him. He's had conversations with them previously. Of course, coach Kevin Ollie came in, and (Jabari) wanted them for a home visit."


Michigan State coach Tom Izzo will make his in-home visit Thursday, and Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski will come Friday. Next week, Stanford coach Johnny Dawkins, North Carolina coach Roy Williams and Ollie are scheduled to make visits. Williams' visit was originally scheduled for this week but had to be postponed because Williams had surgery on Wednesday to remove a tumor from his right kidney.


BYU, DePaul, Florida and Kansas have already made in-home visits, and no other schools are expected to come in for visits.


Sonny said he expects his son to narrow his list to five schools in the near future and then set up official visits.


As a junior, Parker was named the ESPNChicago.com Player of the Year, Illinois' Mr. Basketball and the national Gatorade Player of the Year. He averaged 19.5 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 3.3 blocks and 1.4 steals per contest.

[don23lucia]

Several of the nation’s top coaches have zeroed in on Wayne Selden (Boston/Tilton) as a recruiting target, with Kansas, Florida, UCLA, Ohio State, Syracuse and Missouri all in the hunt for the ESPN 100 small forward's services.

Earlier this week, Kansas’ Bill Self and Florida’s Billy Donovan became the first two coaches to conduct in-home visits with Selden.

[+] Enlarge

Courtesy of Nike
Wayne Selden is the No. 2 SF and the No. 13 overall prospect in the ESPN 100.
Self and assistant coach Norm Roberts were in town on Tuesday, visiting first with Selden’s mother in Boston and then continuing up to see the star swingman on Tilton’s New Hampshire campus.

Donovan arrived a day later and followed a similar plan alongside assistant Matt McCall.

“They both went well,” Selden said on Thursday.

The in-home visits are expected to be a critical part of Selden’s decision-making process since he said he was only expecting to take three or four official visits.

Another major development on Thursday: The star swingman might no longer sign during November’s early signing period.

“I was going to [sign early], but now I’m not sure it’s going to work out time-wise,” he said. “My mom is going to go on the visits with me and she has to find time in her schedule.”

Selden, who has earned a reputation for being one of the most dangerous perimeter scorers in the Class of 2013, said he’s looking for both an opportunity to make an immediate impact as well as a chance play with other high level players.

“I play my best when I’m with other great players,” he said, “and I’m trying to be an overall better player [aside from just scoring]. That was a big thing for me this summer.”

Selden will have every opportunity to prove his versatility this year at Tilton as his senior season will bring the unique challenge of leading an otherwise young team after having spent previous seasons playing with the likes of Nerlens Noel, Georges Niang and Goodluck Okonoboh, among others.

“I’m going to have to be the leader, definitely set the tone,” he said, “I’m going to have to rebound, defend and score.”

After Selden, there are only two other returning players from last year’s roster, both of whom were freshmen.

“Everything is going to be new,” he said. “We just want to come out, give it our all and set the trend for future seasons.”

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/national/post/_/id/3648/selden-sits-down-with-kansas-florida

[don23lucia]

Florida
Visitor: ESPN 60 C Dakari Johnson
This was supposed to be Schulyer Rimmer’s visit weekend before he decommitted this week. Johnson is a tentative visit but worth noting given his profile.

[MJGator8104]

[QUOTE]Selden, who has earned a reputation for being one of the most dangerous perimeter scorers in the Class of 2013, said he’s looking for both an opportunity to make an immediate impact as well as a chance play with other high level players.

“I play my best when I’m with other great players,” he said, “and I’m trying to be an overall better player [aside from just scoring]. That was a big thing for me this summer.”[QUOTE]

Sounds like we fit the bill....

[REM08]

Evan Daniels says Iverson to Memphis. I think I remember him coming up in this thread. If not, oh well.

[don23lucia]

Evan Daniels says Iverson to Memphis. I think I remember him coming up in this thread. If not, oh well.

It has been reported on ESPN as well I can't get on the site right now only the mobile site

[gatorfan12]

Evan Daniels says Iverson to Memphis. I think I remember him coming up in this thread. If not, oh well.

We had a real shot at this kid if we wanted him. He was never a take for us which is disappointing because I really wanted him.

[gatordd]

We had a real shot at this kid if we wanted him. He was never a take for us which is disappointing because I really wanted him.

Same. Kid wanted to be a Gator badly. Oh well, movin on to the next!

[Gator Mike]

Sonny Parker says "there is a strong chance" that Florida will get one of Jabari's five official visits.

Looking like Michigan State, Duke, DePaul, Kansas, and UF in Parker's top five at the moment.

[don23lucia]

Sonny Parker says "there is a strong chance" that Florida will get one of Jabari's five official visits.

Looking like Michigan State, Duke, DePaul, Kansas, and UF in Parker's top five at the moment.

Awesome do you have a link? Maybe this is why we didnt go after a kid like Iverson

[don23lucia]

he 6-foot-6, 235-pound small forward from Montrose Christian told SNY.tv he’s down to St. John’s, Texas, Baylor and Ohio State.

“I cut it down to four,” he said.

The Rivals No. 11 small forward in the Class of 2013, Wainright said he cut Duke, SMU, Florida and UCLA from his list.


No official visits are planned.

“We’re starting to work on that tonight or [Friday] night but I can let you know,” he said.

Wainright initially committed to Missouri but decommitted in June 2011.

St. John’s head coach Steve Lavin has made Wainright a priority, along with forwards Jermaine Lawrence and Jarell Martin, and point guard Rysheed Jordan.

St. John’s assistant Rico Hines played for Stu Vetter at St. John’s Prospect Hall and former Lavin player Earl Watson and Wainright are both from Kansas City. Watson backs Wainright’s AAU team, the KC 76ers,.

Lavin, Villanova’s Jay Wright and Virginia’s Tony Bennett will all speak at the Montrose Christian coaches’ clinic Oct. 6.

“First of all, the education [ at St. John's] is great,” Wainright said. “And the playing style. Coach Lavin said he’s going to let the wings basically run the team, the one through four is capable of playing a different position.”

He added: “And the exact same thing goes for really all of [the schools]. They basically let their wings play and they play defense a lot. That’s one thing I love to do is play defense.”

He hopes to make a decision in the fall.

“It’s possible the fall,” he said. “I’m not trying to go further down. I’m not trying to take it into the season because I want to play this season and have my mind cleared and just trying to win a national championship with my team.”

http://www.zagsblog.com/2012/09/27/ish-wainright-cuts-list-to-four/#more-80313

[don23lucia]

From zagsblog

As reported earlier today on my Twitter, two of the top prospects in the Class of 2013 — Jabari Parker and Beejay Anya — will take key official visits to ACC schools at the end of October.

The 6-foot-8 Parker, the No. 1 prospect in the Class of 2013, will take an official visit to Duke the weekend of Oct. 27, a source with direct knowledge of the situation told SNY.tv.

Duke and Michigan State have long been considered the frontrunners for the Chicago Simeon forward.

Parker was reportedly supposed to visit Michigan State this weekend for the football game against Ohio State, but CSNChicago.com reported he had rescheduled the visit.

“I think Jabari is going to take his time and maybe decide over the weekend what five schools he’s going to visit – if he does five,” Simeon coach Robert Smith told the Hartford Courant.

Parker has reportedly had in-home visits with eight schools – Florida, DePaul, BYU, Kansas, North Carolina, Michigan State, Duke and UConn.

Connecticut was just recently added as the 11th school on his list and new head coach Kevin Ollie met with him this week.

“If Jabari wasn’t seriously interested in UConn, he wouldn’t have them come for a visit,” Smith told the Courant. “They don’t waste people’s time, that’s not how Jabari and his family is.”

Meantime, it was reported that Kentucky — which never had an in-home with Parker — is no longer heavily recruiting him.

John Calipari and company are focusing more on other forwards, including Julius Randle, Trey Lyles, Marcus Lee and Andrew Wiggins, who may or may not reclassify to 2013 from 2014.

Parker previously told SNY.tv he will sign in November.

As for the 6-8, Anya, he now has officials set to Ohio State (Oct. 5), Indiana (Oct. 19) and N.C. State (Oct. 26-28) after slating the Wolfpack visit.

He is also considering Syracuse and Pitt.

Anya previously told SNY.tv that N.C. State commits Anthony “Cat” Barber and Kyle Washington are in his ear.

“They were both on my [Nike] Global Challenge team,” Anya said of the Wolfpack’s newest commits.

And Nima Omidvar, the N.C. State video coordinator, is also a former Team Takeover guy

[InstiGATOR1]

So it seems that UK is out with Parker. So who get his five officials? Duke is schedule and I guess Michigan State will be one too:

1. Duke
2. Michigan State

So who out of UF, BYU, UConn, DePaul, KU and UNC get the last 3? I doubt he goes to UConn but who knows. Still I am going to guess if he goes to UConn this is a courtsey visit to give cred to his fathers friend and knows where he is going. So whether he visits UConn I think may indicate a lot.

I guess the other 3 visits are:

3. BYU
4. KU
5. UF

But maybe the last is wishful thinking. He can certainly see all about DePaul without an official. That would leave UF, UConn and UNC competing for the last slot. I could see it going either way. Of course it probably does not matter as UF is hardly a favorite to get him.

[InstiGATOR1]

Eric Bossi tweets from "The workout in Sarasota" today:

Eric Bossi‏@ebosshoops

Joel Embiid clearly the class of the event. Really not anybody out there who can remotely test the 6-11 big. #dominating #THEworkout.

And Telep says:

Dave Telep‏@DaveTelep

Joel Embiid has come a long way since last March. Rapidly improving. Ways to go but he's gonna pass a lot of guys. #THE

More Telep:

Dave Telep @DaveTelep

Joel Embiid in drill work was eye opening. Guards had more issues in elementary handling drills than he did. #the

ave Telep @DaveTelep

I'm buying my shares of Joel Embiid stock right now. Florida, Kansas and Virginia are definitely in there

More Bossi

Eric Bossi‏@ebosshoops

Put it like this. Embiid is costing somebody in #Rivals150 their spot. Just a question of how high to rank him.

[tupacbiff]

Dave telep @davetelep

If he doesn't choose an ACC school I will be downgrading him as per my normal routine.

[gatordd]

Yeah... Joel is really good. A lot better than anyone has acted up until late. He's just raw.

[bullish]

You can't teach, athletic and 6'11". Take him to the O'Dome and let him block 10 shots a game. LOL!

[don23lucia]

Joel Embiid (Cameroon/The Rock), C, 2013
This is the fastest rising big man in the senior class and arguably the most improved interior player since the end of the high school season. Embiid has all the physical attributes – length, size, and athleticism – to go with an aggressive streak. He doesn’t have a year of organized basketball under his belt but he's got the look of an elite big man prospect and he could be six months away from cementing himself as one of the premier centers in the country. Embiid is raw but it’s from lack of experience not ability or desire. He could conceivably be a contributor at the highest level as a rebounder, scorer and shot blocker. Embiid is far from perfect, but he’s laced with natural ability and hasn’t been spoiled by the process. He clearly wants to get better and Florida, Kansas and Virginia are expected to be solid contenders to receive official visits.


http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/national/post?id=3880

[don23lucia]

I didnt think that Florida had offered Embid yet but on ESPN.com its says that he has a offer from Florida already.

[tupacbiff]

ESPN also said dakari Johnson visited this past weekend.

[Gator Mike]

But maybe the last is wishful thinking. He can certainly see all about DePaul without an official. That would leave UF, UConn and UNC competing for the last slot. I could see it going either way. Of course it probably does not matter as UF is hardly a favorite to get him.
Maybe. But DePaul is pushing hard for an official visit, no matter how much time he spends on their campus already.

[tupacbiff]

He would be an absolute moron to even consider depaul.

[InstiGATOR1]

Sindarius Thornwell committed to SoCar tonight continuing the SEC talent grab this year.

[don23lucia]

After initially saying they would announce their college choice Oct. 29, the Harrison Twins have switched gears and will now likely pull the trigger for either Kentucky or Maryland Thursday on ESPNU.

“Thursday will be the toughest decision I ever had to make but I’m looking forward to it,” Andrew Harrison Tweeted.

The twins are ranked the No. 4 and 5 prospects on the Sheridan Hoops Top 20 Prep Prospects list.

After initially naming a Top 5 of Kentucky, Maryland, SMU, Baylor and Villanova, the twins cut their list to three, with SMU considered an extreme longshot.

During a video interview in August with SNY.tv, Aaron Harrison said of Kentucky: “I mean, they always have a good class of players. Coach [John] Calipari knows how to put a lot of great players together and make them win so he would just have another great class.”

The twins said they weren’t concerned with whether Kentucky might land a blockbuster class that could potentially include some combination of James Young, Julius Randle and Andrew Wiggins.

“I’m not sure about who’s going there [to Kentucky] and who’s not, so I can’t really answer that question,” Andrew said in August.

Since then, Young, the 6-6 shooting guard from Rochester (Mich.) has visited Kentucky and is considering a second trip Oct. 12 for Big Blue Madness.

A Division I source previously told SNY.tv that the twins and their father were split over where they should go and that they wanted to announce their decision before Young or any other player potentially picked Kentucky.

As for Maryland, they have remained a viable option for the Twins, who have family in Baltimore.

“Maryland presents a lot of things,” Aaron said in August. “It’s close to my family, Coach [Mark] Turgeon recruited me when he was at Texas A&M. It’s close to my family, I like the way they play.”

Added Andrew: “It’s a family atmosphere. The ACC is a great conference and Coach Turgeon is a good coach. Coach Bino [Ranson], I like those guys.”

The world will find out on Thursday what they have decided.

And whichever program gets them will have a pair of potential one-and-done players for the 2013-14 season.

www.zagsblog.com


This should have a trickling effect on the rest of the recruits after the twins decide this week.

[REM08]

After initially saying they would announce their college choice Oct. 29, the Harrison Twins have switched gears and will now likely pull the trigger for either Kentucky or Maryland Thursday on ESPNU.

“Thursday will be the toughest decision I ever had to make but I’m looking forward to it,” Andrew Harrison Tweeted.

The twins are ranked the No. 4 and 5 prospects on the Sheridan Hoops Top 20 Prep Prospects list.

After initially naming a Top 5 of Kentucky, Maryland, SMU, Baylor and Villanova, the twins cut their list to three, with SMU considered an extreme longshot.

During a video interview in August with SNY.tv, Aaron Harrison said of Kentucky: “I mean, they always have a good class of players. Coach [John] Calipari knows how to put a lot of great players together and make them win so he would just have another great class.”

The twins said they weren’t concerned with whether Kentucky might land a blockbuster class that could potentially include some combination of James Young, Julius Randle and Andrew Wiggins.

“I’m not sure about who’s going there [to Kentucky] and who’s not, so I can’t really answer that question,” Andrew said in August.

Since then, Young, the 6-6 shooting guard from Rochester (Mich.) has visited Kentucky and is considering a second trip Oct. 12 for Big Blue Madness.

A Division I source previously told SNY.tv that the twins and their father were split over where they should go and that they wanted to announce their decision before Young or any other player potentially picked Kentucky.

As for Maryland, they have remained a viable option for the Twins, who have family in Baltimore.

“Maryland presents a lot of things,” Aaron said in August. “It’s close to my family, Coach [Mark] Turgeon recruited me when he was at Texas A&M. It’s close to my family, I like the way they play.”

Added Andrew: “It’s a family atmosphere. The ACC is a great conference and Coach Turgeon is a good coach. Coach Bino [Ranson], I like those guys.”

The world will find out on Thursday what they have decided.

And whichever program gets them will have a pair of potential one-and-done players for the 2013-14 season.

www.zagsblog.com


This should have a trickling effect on the rest of the recruits after the twins decide this week.


Agreed. They're important, one way or another, for quite a few teams.

[Gator Mike]

He would be an absolute moron to even consider depaul.
I think we've established that this is your belief.

That said, he's seriously considering DePaul. They might even be one of the favorites.

[tupacbiff]

I think we've established that this is your belief.

That said, he's seriously considering DePaul. They might even be one of the favorites.

If he doesn't choose UF I hope he picks DePaul. This way we don't have to worry about seeing him in the tourney since he will be NIT bound.

[don23lucia]

If he doesn't choose UF I hope he picks DePaul. This way we don't have to worry about seeing him in the tourney since he will be NIT bound.

Cosign

[Gator Mike]

If he doesn't choose UF I hope he picks DePaul. This way we don't have to worry about seeing him in the tourney since he will be NIT bound.
We'll see. I sorta think they've got a shot at an NIT birth this year.

[REM08]

Per Randle's school - He's cut Duke and UNC from his list and narrowed his 6 down to UK, NC st, UF, Texas, KU, Oklahoma.

[don23lucia]

On Monday, power forward Julius Randle (Dallas/Prestonwood Academy) picked up the phone and called Baylor, Duke, North Carolina and Oklahoma State. Those four programs did not make the next round of cuts for the nation’s No. 3 overall prospect in the ESPN 100.

However, six programs did make it to the next round and remain in the mix to land Randle, a 6-foot-9, 225-pound power foward. Kentucky, NC State, Florida, Texas, Kansas and Oklahoma remain.

This weekend, Randle will take his second official visit. The Florida Gators host him. Randle’s connection to Florida was crystalized last summer when Gators coach Billy Donovan had Randle on the United States' under-18 national squad.

You have to believe that Randle is going to attempt to make the most of his likely singular year in college. That means the pursuit of a national championship. Not everyone on his list is built for that type of run. Florida's recruiting class and transfers who are sitting out, combined with Randle's existing relationship with Donovan, makes it a formidable foe that hasn't received the same attention as some of the other names on the list. Obviously, this is a significant weekend coming up.

Randle’s first visit was to Kentucky on Sept. 15. According to Jeff Webster, Randle’s mentor, no other official visits have been scheduled.

Trimming Duke and North Carolina is big news. North Carolina's home visit last month drew plenty of media attention, and Randle clearly was a priority. The Heels getting sliced from the list stands out more than Duke not making the cut for that reason. Programs, when recruiting elite-level guys, don't publicize priorities, but it certainly looked as if UNC was further down the road with Randle than Duke, while the Blue Devils had made No. 1 overall prospect Jabari Parker their go-to-guy. All we know for sure now is neither is getting Randle.

The Wolfpack had a hook that neither Duke nor UNC had: family connections. Randle and his family are close with Pack freshman guard Rodney Purvis and his mother. So far, that connection, plus coach Mark Gottfried’s pursuit of Randle, has gotten the team this far and just boosted it onto a shorter list.

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/colleges/oklahoma/post?id=14402

[don23lucia]

Jabari Parker will take official visits to Duke and Michigan State — his two perceived leaders — and will add three more officials, according to a report on ESPNChicago.com.

The 6-foot-8 Parker will visit Duke the weekend of Oct. 27, as previously reported on SNY.tv. A date for the MSU visit has not yet been set.

North Carolina coach Roy Williams will have an in-home with Parker Tuesday and Florida coach Billy Donovan visits Chicago Simeon that same day, ESPN reported.

“From there, we’ll probably sit down and evaluate all his home visits and decide which will be his official visits,” Sonny Parker told the site. “It’s a process. He’s had quite a few home visits. He’s going to start taking his visits. It’s the month of October already. It’s going to take time.”

Parker initially released a list of 10 schools: BYU, DePaul, Duke, Florida, Georgetown, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan State, North Carolina and Stanford.

He had in-home visits with everyone except Georgetown and Kentucky. It appears that Kentucky has moved on to other targets at the forward spot, including Julius Randle, who trimmed to six, including Kentucky, on Tuesday.

Parker recently added UConn as his 11th school and last week had a home visit with new coach Kevin Ollie.

“It was a great home visit,” Sonny said. “Kevin Ollie, him being a former player, being in the NBA, now the coach at UConn, they have a great program. Jabari chose to have UConn come in.”

http://zagsblog.com/articles/parker-to-visit-duke-michigan-state/#disqus_thread

[StrangeGator]

Starting to feel better about our chances with Randle. Kentucky dropping out of the Parker sweepstakes is good news, but he still has a long list and I have a bad feeling about Michigan State. I think the family will want him close but DePaul doesn't give him a big enough stage.

[jshaas]

Is bullis still around. Bullis your thoughts??

[don23lucia]

Parker will be here the first weekend in NOV for a official. Many believe that we are behind Duke and Mich St. are leading but this has to be good for Coach Donovan and staff. Randle is coming this weekend for the LSU games as well. The next couple months should be very interesting.

[gatordee]

Imagine what this kid would do for this class! However, I have a feeling we come in 3rd out a 6 man race.

[don23lucia]

Randle tweeted pic from the gator locker room today.

[jshaas]

Copy of pic?

[jeffphillips21]

it's just a shot of the football players, he's not in it. but he did just tweet this:

Julius Randle ‏@J30_RANDLE
S/O to my bro @KaHill11 !! Follow him !

[GatorInSC]

Dillion Graham just twitted that Randale will be joint the class, don't put to much stock in it but its a good sign

[InstiGATOR1]

Dillion Graham just twitted that Randale will be joint the class, don't put to much stock in it but its a good sign

As I remember, Graham was quite accurate in his tweet about Chris Walker joining the class.

[tupacbiff]

Graham = recruiting savant.

He could supplant Telep tomorrow.

[don23lucia]

Simeon Career Academy (Chicago) forward Jabari Parker, the nation's No. 1-ranked senior, cut his list to five schools Friday: BYU, Duke, Florida, Michigan State and Stanford.

Parker in July had revealed a list of 10 schools he was considering, which included DePaul, Georgetown, Kansas, Kentucky and North Carolina.

Of that list, Georgetown and Kentucky did not make in-home visits. Connecticut wasn't on his first list but was allowed a home visit.


Parker
Parker now will set up official visits to his final five schools and is expected to commit in November. He's scheduled to visit Duke on Oct. 27 and Florida on Nov. 2.

"He thought about it and looked at the programs. That's the five he had," Simeon coach Robert Smith said Friday. "It took him a long time to find. Everyone was really good, but he had to make a decision. He really respected everyone recruiting him and wanted to thank them for their time. He knew he couldn't make everyone happy.

"He's just ready to go out and visit the campuses and get a real feel for the players and the campuses. Him, his family and myself will sit down and see what he comes up with. This is Jabari's decision. We're just making sure he's being guided. I tell him to follow his heart."

Smith understands BYU is the one school that seemed out of the ordinary on Parker's list. Smith said Parker, who is Mormon, didn't include BYU out of generosity.

"All five schools are schools he's really interested in and really thinking about attending," Smith said. "He's really thinking about BYU. I know his faith has a lot to do with it. The coaching staff has been great with him. They've been a winning program. That's one of his choices."

Smith said Parker's hardest decision was not including DePaul, his home school, on his final list.

"I think that was the hardest one of them all because he talked about coach (Oliver) Purnell and things of that nature," Smith said. "It was hard for him to call them and let them know. I understand that. That's his home school. That's a rough decision."

Smith also praised Parker and his family for the way they've handled the recruiting process.

"People call me all the time and tell me, 'I know it's difficult situation, but they've handled it well,' " Smith said. "His mother and father have been doing a good job."

As a junior, Parker was named the ESPNChicago.com Player of the Year, Illinois' Mr. Basketball and the national Gatorade Player of the Year. He averaged 19.5 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 3.3 blocks and 1.4 steals a game.

[don23lucia]

Dillion Graham just twitted that Randale will be joint the class, don't put to much stock in it but its a good sign

@DillGraham12: Tonight>>>> #Gville is wild!!! And my guy @J30_RANDLE is about to be part of this Family #GatorNation

[don23lucia]

Florida already has two of the nation's top 10 players in the Class of 2013 committed, and more could be on the way this weekend.

"Billy Donovan is hosting a prospect party a week early, and he's invited five five-star recruits," ESPN's Dave Telep said. "Seriously, you have to be a bona fide stud to be in Gainesville this weekend."

According to Telep, the visitors include: commits Kasey Hill (No. 8 in 2013), Chris Walker (No. 9 in 2013) and recruits Julius Randle (No. 3 in 2013), Dakari Johnson (No. 4 in 2014) and Karl Towns (No. 1 in 2015).

Oh, and did we mention 2013's No. 1 player, Jabari Parker, has the Gators in his final five and will visit Gainsville on Nov. 2? Gaining a verbal from any of the aforementioned recruits would solidify Florida?s elite status for years to come. All are potential one-and-done players.

Kentucky coach John Calipari is the name mentioned when thinking about the nation?s best recruiter. Billy Donovan, who's doing this at a school known for football, isn't far behind.

[Bradass]

Is Graham just being hopeful/trying to sway Randle or do we think there's actually some truth to this?!?!

[MadduxFanII]

I assumed it was the former when he was Tweeting about Walker, Brad, and that worked out fairly well. Maybe Dillon's prepping for a post-basketball career as a recruiting insider.

[don23lucia]

So far he's 100%

[don23lucia]

Twitter is saying Randle cancelled trip to UK ill post a link if i can find anything confirming this.

[flwgator2]

http://www.allkyhoops.com/2012/10/julius-randle-to-skip-big-blue-madness.html

[don23lucia]

On Saturday, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints made a rather momentous announcement: Going forward, the minimum age requirement for church members' missions would be lowered. The new rule will allow men to take their missions at age 18, instead of 19, and allows women to embark at age 19, down from 21.

It didn't take long to measure the impact this wholesale change could have on the recruitment and collegiate careers of LDS athletes at all schools, but particularly schools in Utah, and -- most obviously -- Brigham Young. The football team alone has 38 players serving in 17 different missions around the world. The Deseret News's Dick Harmon did the math:
To say this new decision impacts BYU sports is an understatement. It changed the world for LDS athletes who are now 17 and juniors or seniors in high school.

"We've already received tweets from people on this," said Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the LDS Church's Quorum of the Twelve. "They can go sooner and return sooner and play four straight years."

Which brings us, not for the first time today, to 2013's No. 1 overall recruit, Jabari Parker. Parker is a devout Mormon who listed BYU on his final list of five schools (alongside Duke, Michigan State, Florida and Stanford); Parker's father told ESPN Chicago's Scott Powers his son isn't merely listing BYU as lip service, but genuinely considering Dave Rose's program alongside the rest.

But the new rule might completely change the nature of Parker's recruitment. As NBC's Rob Dauster notes, because the NBA's age minimum merely requires a player to be older than 19 -- it doesn't require one year of college; a year of college is still merely the path of least resistance -- it is conceivable that Parker could choose to embark on his mission after high school and return to the states able to join the NBA draft without ever having played a game of college hoops.

This seems somewhat unlikely, because it would require Parker to interrupt his hoops career at arguably the most inopportune time. Likewise, Parker has yet to commit to a mission in the first place. His most recent predecessor in the "high-profile Mormon athlete" category, former BYU star Jimmer Fredette, chose not to go on a mission, instead playing an uninterrupted four years at the school before heading to the NBA draft. (There has been debate on this among Mormons, with some arguing that Fredette's talent and popularity inherently serve the purpose of his mission.) Parker could choose a similar path. It's possible the new rule will have no influence on his decision either way.

But from a larger perspective, the rule change is bound to revolutionize the way Mormon athletes -- especially those at BYU and Utah, but theoretically at any university -- treat their recruitment and collegiate sports schedules. For the first time, those athletes can avoid the somewhat awkward (but no doubt rewarding) calculus of arriving at school, playing one season, leaving for two years and returning to finish later than most athletes. It's a big deal.

http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/64988/new-mission-policy-could-change-byu-recruiting

[tupacbiff]

I thought they would address the societal benefits of multiple wives first since its such a clear no brainier.

[dailydoublecat]

I'm hearing that Randle and UF has a big chance. This will go to the bitter end.

[Singaporegator]

I thought they would address the societal benefits of multiple wives first since its such a clear no brainier.

You are not married, are you?

[jshaas]

Daily so you think UF gets Randle? or do you think UK in the end? also when does he announce?

[StrangeGator]

You are not married, are you?

No one who has never been married has even an inkling of the downward spiral their life would take having two wives.

Mormonism sounds great to a 17 year-old single mormon. Mormonism sounds like the Nine Circles of Hell to a 54 year-old married Jew.

[ugaGator]

http://www.allkyhoops.com/2012/10/julius-randle-to-skip-big-blue-madness.html

Well, good for Julius! Enjoy high school while you can (and college too)! Hope he enjoyed his time this past weekend!

[UFreak]

No one who has never been married has even an inkling of the downward spiral their life would take having two wives.

Mormonism sounds great to a 17 year-old single mormon. Mormonism sounds like the Nine Circles of Hell to a 54 year-old married Jew.

Brilliant!

[tupacbiff]

Might be married might not. Read my post. I am talking about tge societal benefits not male benefits.

[DeBigLeezard]

A little known fact about the Mormon faith is that only 2% of the men in that religion practiced having more than one wife.
Secondly...as I understand it... a man was "called" by the leadership to take on another wife. This was done because the woman's former husband had died, leaving her with a farm to work and small children to raise.

Many times, the husbands were also killed through pursecutions and their homes were burned in the process. No other religion was pursecuted more severely in the history of America... than the Mormons.

I know of this because I had a friend (Glenn Cameron) who was a Latter-day Saint on the team (All SEC and All-American linebacker) while I attended Florida back in the mid to late 70's.
He had a Great-Grandfather who lived in Utah and had two wives. The man kept a journal of his life. He was called by the Apostles in Salt Lake City to take on another wife. His first wife (and children) lived in Salt Lake. His second wife lived 30 miles south in Provo who had a farm and several young children.
One Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, he would be in Salt Lake and work his farm and be with his first family.
On Wednesday, he would then, travel all day by horse to Provo to be with his second wife and "family." He would work that farm the rest of the week and then, travel back on Saturday by horse to get back to Salt Lake City.
He mentions in his diary that he did not care for all that he had to do in having a second wife and all the work that was involved.

Basically, it showed me a different life than what I preceived, at first... to be pretty cool.
Glenn was never pushy with his religion on me. But being around him certainly opened up my eyes to what the Mormons have gone through... even in a country that was founded on religious freedom.

[StrangeGator]

Since UF is not a Mormon school, maybe we should offer him two girlfriends so he feels more at home.

[InstiGATOR1]

I too thought StrangeGator's description of having more than one wife quite apt. I also found DeBigLeezard's post on Cameron really interesting. You can learn something about Gator and related history on the internet almost every day.

Now back to recruits, I wonder if this investigation of Myck Kabongo at UTx will hurt their chances with Randle at all. I doubt it does much if at all, but it can not be a good thing for UTx in his recruitment.

[Osiris_DPM]

Since UF is not a Mormon school, maybe we should offer him two girlfriends so he feels more at home.

Don't have to be Mormon to pull that move off in G'ville. It is, after all, when women like to "experiment" lol. ;)

[dailydoublecat]

Daily so you think UF gets Randle? or do you think UK in the end? also when does he announce?

I think Florida is a real player--the UK people I trust belive that to be the case. it will go to the bitter end--April, May or even later. Of course he could call a press conference tomorrow.

Jeff

[Osiris_DPM]

I think Florida is a real player--the UK people I trust belive that to be the case. it will go to the bitter end--April, May or even later. Of course he could call a press conference tomorrow.

Jeff

I'v been saying this on here for a while, I don't know why people keep asking as if it's a foregone conclusion and well-hidden secret. The kid is still working through the process, and has a lot to consider before deciding which school is the best fit. Florida has a real shot, so does UK, and so does Texas.

The UF visit went a long way towards making him feel good with location like he already felt about the coaching. Gotta let that sink in, let the coaches and our recruits keep working on him, and hope that in the end, this is the place he wants to call home (rather than splitting the difference and just calling "home" home by staying at Texas, which a lot of recruits close to their families end up doing).

[GatorLurker]

Maybe today's news will make Texas less attractive. We will see.

[Juggernautz]

Twitter is saying Randle cancelled trip to UK ill post a link if i can find anything confirming this.

Excellent!

[Osiris_DPM]

Maybe today's news will make Texas less attractive. We will see.

What happened? Been at work all day and haven't been on the net much

[GatorsGators]

Twitter is saying Randle cancelled trip to UK ill post a link if i can find anything confirming this.Randle didn't cancel a visit to UK this weekend... He was never scheduled to visit. He visited UK about a month ago.

[ETGator1]

UK picked up another top 10 ESPN player today. They now have 3 of the ESPN top 5 with Randall still oit there.

UF has 2 of the ESPN top 10.

Arkansas has 1 of the ESPN top 10.

The SEC is cleaning up in national recruiting. Randall would put UF on par with UK's #1 rated class. I think Billy Donovan intends to compete for the #1 spot in the SEC and nationally again and soon.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/8492054/james-young-no-5-prospect-2013-class-commits-kentucky-wildcats

[GatorLurker]

What happened? Been at work all day and haven't been on the net much

Current player linked to a agent. It may be a tempest in a teapot or it may be more. Hard to say at this point.

[don23lucia]

Randle didn't cancel a visit to UK this weekend... He was never scheduled to visit. He visited UK about a month ago.

He did visit but folks were saying he was going to attend midnight madness as well but opted for homecoming.

[Osiris_DPM]

@EvanDanielsFOX
Like Texas & Florida for Julius Randle RT @swhite1121 I want to know what @EvanDanielsFOX thinks on where Julius Randle will go!

[InstiGATOR1]

@EvanDanielsFOX
Like Texas & Florida for Julius Randle RT @swhite1121 I want to know what @EvanDanielsFOX thinks on where Julius Randle will go!

A KU site I go to said they thought it was down to UF, UTx and KU the other day. So there is some growing thought around the internet that UK will not get Randle. We shall see.

[tupacbiff]

Well you would have to be a moron to opt to play for Rick Barnes. You would have to be a super moron to pick UT now in light of the NCAA investigation.

[dailydoublecat]

A KU site I go to said they thought it was down to UF, UTx and KU the other day. So there is some growing thought around the internet that UK will not get Randle. We shall see.

UK has a big chance with Randle and I also think Florida has a BIG shot as well. I think it comes down to UK and UF for his services.

Jeff

[Nicho]

Well you would have to be a moron to opt to play for Rick Barnes. You would have to be a super moron to pick UT now in light of the NCAA investigation.

Rick Barnes... Doing less with more since '98. And prior, I guess.

[flwgator2]

@TheRecruitScoop: RT @JayhawkSlant: After visiting Kansas, 2013 Florida big man Joel Embiid says Jayhawks are his leader

[don23lucia]

[QUOTE="flwgator2"]@TheRecruitScoop: RT @JayhawkSlant: After visiting Kansas, 2013 Florida big man Joel Embiid says Jayhawks are his leader[/QUOT

Im guessing Norm Roberts is making a impact with this one.

[ugaGator]

Perhaps we're very good on one of our other targets?

[REM08]

Selden to Kansas per Evan Daniels.

Telep adds that Selden is the kind of kid that may attract other top players to Kansas.

[don23lucia]

It took only one official visit for ESPN 100 small forward Wayne Selden to find the right spot to play college basketball.

The nation's No. 14 overall recruit in the Class of 2013 committed to Kansas on Monday.

After attending Late Night in the Phog -- Kansas' Midnight Madness celebration -- over the weekend, Selden knew Kansas was where he wanted to be and chose the Jayhawks over Syracuse, Florida, Missouri and UCLA.

"It is the right fit for me as a person and a player," said Selden, a Boston native who plays high school ball at the Tilton School in New Hampshire. "When we walked in the arena (for Late Night in the Phog), the roar of the crowd was insane. I was filled with excitement and to a certain extent overwhelmed."


The Jayhawks, who move to No. 2 in the 2013 class rankings behind Kentucky, are now loaded on the perimeter for the future, as Selden will join fellow ESPN 100 recruits Conner Frankamp, a point guard out of Wichita, Kan., and Brannen Greene, a shooting guard from Monroe, Ga. In addition, Kansas has a commitment from two-star point guard Frank Mason of Petersburg, Va.


Selden believes that attending the Tilton School has prepared him for this decision, as he is comfortable in a small-town setting.

"Growing up in the city (Boston), which I love, but there are always distractions both positive and negative," Selden said. "Tilton helped me stay focused on academics and basketball. Lawrence, Kansas, is a great college town and has the same feeling as Tilton."


The 6-foot-5, 220-pound Selden has dominated high school and the summer circuit thanks to his size and strength.


This past spring and summer Selden started to make individual improvements with the help of Steve Hailey, a former Boston College player who trains him. He and Hailey worked together to enhance his scoring and ballhandling skills.

Selden is also a good passer with terrific vision and unselfishness. In addition, his long-range jumper is now a weapon and no longer a weakness. Whether it's a drive, post up or an offensive rebound, when he gets near the basket, he can physically punish opponents.


Still, he knows there are holes in his game and understands there is a huge learning curve from prep school to the Big 12.

"I must work on my lateral speed to defend better and keep working on my ballhandling," Selden said.

He will now head to play for one of the most successful coaches in the nation in Bill Self, who Selden hopes will continue to help him improve his game.

"Coach Self is a great coach," Selden said. "They made me feel welcomed and wanted. He has a plan for me."

During his visit to Kansas this past weekend, Selden couldn't help but notice the family atmosphere.

"I noticed the connection between the players, coaches and the fans, as well as the family members of the players," he said. "It was special."


http://espn.go.com/college-sports/recruiting/basketball/mens/story/_/id/8507893/wayne-selden-espn-100-no-14-recruit-commits-kansas-jayhawks-2013

[tampajack1]

I will not be at tall surprised if this kid becomes an NBA All-Star, possibly, as a point guard. As a said a while ago, Nerlens Noel was the 3rd best player on his high school team behind Selden and George Niang. Of course, Noel has huge upside.

[don23lucia]

I will not be at tall surprised if this kid becomes an NBA All-Star, possibly, as a point guard. As a said a while ago, Nerlens Noel was the 3rd best player on his high school team behind Selden and George Niang. Of course, Noel has huge upside.


Totally agree, I watched him a few times over this past EYBL and he would dominate with or without the ball. Extremely good at driving to the hole and taking the contact and finishing. His jumpshot will only get better, I know we are pretty set at the 1 and 2 for now but he would have been a huge get for us, a bigger star in the making then I think people realize.

[InstiGATOR1]

Randle's latest blog is up. It is post UFvisit:

http://www.usatodayhss.com/news/article/julius-randle-blog-cutting-list-duke-unc-harrison-twins

[StrangeGator]

Sounds like he had great time at the football game. Really surprised that Coach Muschamp took time to talk to him. Sounds like it made quite an impression. Shark diving with Coach Donovan? That would be cool. (not for me though)

Sounds like we're in the thick of it. Doubt anybody will be able to duplicate the experience he had at the football game. Don't know how that will play. Wish he'd mentioned Walker and Hill. He probably only mentioned the Harrison's to rebut the "beef" rumor. I think he'd be a better fit with Walker and Hill.

[UFG8rGuy3283]

Randle's latest blog is up. It is post UFvisit:

http://www.usatodayhss.com/news/article/julius-randle-blog-cutting-list-duke-unc-harrison-twins

Interesting. It was pretty great until all the UK love afterwards. I sort of hate to see that type of thing after an official here. Maybe I'm reading into it too much, but it almost felt like there was some curious timing with the Harrisons moving up their commitment right when Randle is set to visit UF.

[InstiGATOR1]

I think Randle's connection to Donovan being so broad is very important. I think he is not going to play with the Harrison twins at UK, but they are from his home state so why create waves?

I too found it curious that he mentioned how good the Harrison twins are without at the same time mentioning that Hill would be just as good to play with.

[InstiGATOR1]

Parker has decide NOT to sign early afterall:

http://espn.go.com/chicago/story/_/id/8513128/top-recruit-jabari-parker-commit-sign-early

[StrangeGator]

Parker has decide NOT to sign early afterall:

http://espn.go.com/chicago/story/_/id/8513128/top-recruit-jabari-parker-commit-sign-early

That's good, I think. When is Randle expected to decide?

[dailydoublecat]

That's good, I think. When is Randle expected to decide?

Randle will go to the bitter end!

[REM08]

That's good, I think. When is Randle expected to decide?

Gotta wonder if Marcus Lee's announcement tomorrow might impact Randles decision. Some gurus saying no but I still wonder.

[InstiGATOR1]

Randle will go to the bitter end!

Gotta wonder if Marcus Lee's announcement tomorrow might impact Randles decision. Some gurus saying no but I still wonder.

1. Randle consistenly said that he would probably sign in the late period, but might have enough information to decide in the fall. He has visited UK and UF. He has taken an unofficial to UTx and will take one late this month to his godfather's school OU. Will he feel the need to visit KU and NCSU or will he just decide?

2. Some sites see this as down to UF and UTx or UF, KU and UTx. If Lee commits to UK, it could be a sign they are not in the Randle sweepstakes any more.

[don23lucia]

I think Randle will wait to the last day unless lee and maybe gordan go to UK. Parkers will be done by dec and that should help randle figure it out too. I think we have a real shot at both, but all we can do is wait and see.

[REM08]

1. Randle consistenly said that he would probably sign in the late period, but might have enough information to decide in the fall. He has visited UK and UF. He has taken an unofficial to UTx and will take one late this month to his godfather's school OU. Will he feel the need to visit KU and NCSU or will he just decide?

2. Some sites see this as down to UF and UTx or UF, KU and UTx. If Lee commits to UK, it could be a sign they are not in the Randle sweepstakes any more.

The two national guys I think the most of are both in the Florida/Texas camp.

[jshaas]

Where do people think lee will be going?

[InstiGATOR1]

Where do people think lee will be going?

Most seem to think it is UK. I know most UK fans will be shocked if it is not UK.

[don23lucia]

It will more than likely be UK and we will see if this does in fact sway Randle one way or the other.

[StrangeGator]

I think Randle will wait to the last day unless lee and maybe gordan go to UK. Parkers will be done by dec and that should help randle figure it out too. I think we have a real shot at both, but all we can do is wait and see.

That would be insane.

[dailydoublecat]

Where do people think lee will be going?

Marcus Lee will announce for Kentucky. This will not effect Randle, or Gordon.

Jeff

[jshaas]

how could it not affect Randle.. arent they both PF or forwards?

[tupacbiff]

You have to remember that Jeff los a uk fan. Uk fans are inherently incapable of being rational

[MadduxFanII]

Would we be looking at Randle playing the four if we reeled him in? I assume that would make Walker a five? With a lot of flexibility in terms of shifting between four and five?

Lord, imagine that rotation between the two positions. Walker, Randle, Harris, etc.

[dailydoublecat]

how could it not affect Randle.. arent they both PF or forwards?

Lee is a 5--Randle is a 4--we would not take Lee if it did IMHO.

Jeff

[tampajack1]

Lee is a 5--Randle is a 4--we would not take Lee if it did IMHO.

Jeff

Things could be pretty crowded at UK if Cauley and Wiltjer come back. However, there also will be a crowd at UF with Harris, Walker, Yeguete, Finney-Smith and Prather.

[StrangeGator]

Would we be looking at Randle playing the four if we reeled him in? I assume that would make Walker a five? With a lot of flexibility in terms of shifting between four and five?

Lord, imagine that rotation between the two positions. Walker, Randle, Harris, etc.

Randle doesn't appear to be as long, but he's more muscular than Walker. I see it as the other way around, or Walker even playing the three. Athletically, he looks more like Corey Brewer.

[dailydoublecat]

Things could be pretty crowded at UK if Cauley and Wiltjer come back. However, there also will be a crowd at UF with Harris, Walker, Yeguete, Finney-Smith and Prather.

I'm not concerned about the UK situation they either step up or will be recruited over--it will be pretty cut and dry.

Jeff

[REM08]

You have to remember that Jeff los a uk fan. Uk fans are inherently incapable of being rational

Whether or not Jeff or any UK fan is capable of being rational, what he's saying lines up perfectly with what most recruiting "experts" are saying as well.

[tupacbiff]

Whether or not Jeff or any UK fan is capable of being rational, what he's saying lines up perfectly with what most recruiting "experts" are saying as well.

So?

[don23lucia]

I'm not concerned about the UK situation they either step up or will be recruited over--it will be pretty cut and dry.

Jeff

This is what happens at every level and school

[InstiGATOR1]

This article:

http://bustingbrackets.com/2012/10/18/recruiting-source-florida-texas-in-front-for-julius-randle/

says:

A source close to Randle’s recruitment informs Busting Brackets that Florida and Texas, not Kentucky, are the two leaders for Randle’s services at this time.

and further

Of the two schools, Florida, the source surmises, is the favorite at this juncture in the recruitment thanks to the strong bond Randle has developed with Donovan. Kentucky and dark horse NC State are also very much in the running.

[MadduxFanII]

I think I've always assumed Randle was a long shot, at best. Guess that's not the case.

[don23lucia]

I think I've always assumed Randle was a long shot, at best. Guess that's not the case.

We came into the picture late but we are making a great push right now.

[REM08]

I think his experience with Billy is helping you guys a lot. It takes a way a lot of the "what ifs" that these kids probably worry about when entering a new situation. I also think Beal's success last year helps - as many of you have suggested.

That being said, where are all the anti one-and-done gator fans out there? I still haven't seen a negative sentence about how Billy has "sold his soul." I can't count the number of past posts I've seen talking about how taking one every once in a while is TOTALLY different than the mockery of education that one particular coach has made out of taking so many of these kids...

Obviously I'm all for it. Its a dumb rule, but if Walker, Hill, Parker and Randle all have to attend school for a year, why not Florida? If they're only going to get one year of mentoring from a college coach, why not Billy? I'm not even being sarcastic here. Glad to see so many of you are coming around (and yes I realize others of you never made such ridiculous statements).

[tupacbiff]

I read the above post and can't believe you failed to mention Cal's cheating. Was it just an oversight?

[MadduxFanII]

That being said, where are all the anti one-and-done gator fans out there? I still haven't seen a negative sentence about how Billy has "sold his soul." I can't count the number of past posts I've seen talking about how taking one every once in a while is TOTALLY different than the mockery of education that one particular coach has made out of taking so many of these kids...

Obviously I'm all for it. Its a dumb rule, but if Walker, Hill, Parker and Randle all have to attend school for a year, why not Florida? If they're only going to get one year of mentoring from a college coach, why not Billy? I'm not even being sarcastic here. Glad to see so many of you are coming around (and yes I realize others of you never made such ridiculous statements).

When Satan is beating you down, there's no shame in stealing his sword.*


*This is a joke.

[tupacbiff]

I thought jokes by definition should be funny?

[dailydoublecat]

The name of the game is to win. You need to recruit the best of the best. It is up to the players to work their ass off to be a high NBA pick it isnt a given. The players will only be one and done if they work hard and earn it.

[tupacbiff]

The name of the game is to win. You need to recruit the best of the best. It is up to the players to work their ass off to be a high NBA pick it isnt a given. The players will only be one and done if they work hard and earn it.

So misguided and I'm not surprised. You don't need tge best players you need the best team. Our 04's proved that in spades. Where does Cal's cheating fit into your theory?

[dailydoublecat]

It is up to the coach to help mold the talent that they have to create a team first environment. Your championship teams did it as we did last year.

Jeff

[GatorLurker]

It is up to the coach to help mold the talent that they have to create a team first environment.

It is easier if you recruit kids with the right attitude before they step on campus.

[StrangeGator]

That being said, where are all the anti one-and-done gator fans out there? I still haven't seen a negative sentence about how Billy has "sold his soul." I can't count the number of past posts I've seen talking about how taking one every once in a while is TOTALLY different than the mockery of education that one particular coach has made out of taking so many of these kids...


Billy didn't sell his soul to get in it with these kids. Two of them are in-state players who had a high predisposition to stay in Florida. More than that, getting Hill put us in a good position to get Walker. We're in on the other two because Billy had the good fortune to coach them. They are both good kids who don't appear to be under the influence of shady characters. I don't expect this to be an ongoing trend for UF. We might see one or two more five star types next year, but I expect us to get back to signing UK, Duke and UNC leftovers in another two years.

[REM08]

Billy didn't sell his soul to get in it with these kids. Two of them are in-state players who had a high predisposition to stay in Florida. More than that, getting Hill put us in a good position to get Walker. We're in on the other two because Billy had the good fortune to coach them. They are both good kids who don't appear to be under the influence of shady characters. I don't expect this to be an ongoing trend for UF. We might see one or two more five star types next year, but I expect us to get back to signing UK, Duke and UNC leftovers in another two years.

Keep in mind that my "sold soul" comment was made very sarcastically. By it, I was referring to previous comments made about how bad OAD kids are for the college game - and for the educational system itself - comments that alluded to the games integrity or a schools status as an NBA farm league where they don't care of prospective students actually care about getting an education or maturing as a human being. I didn't mean it in any way related to the actual recruiting process.

I don't see why you'd say you expect a return to recruiting left overs though.

[tampajack1]

The one and done rule is a joke, and Calipari makes it worse by the way he capitalizes on it. UK's team is basically a non-student team. UF's team is a student team with occasional one and done's.

[REM08]

The one and done rule is a joke, and Calipari makes it worse by the way he capitalizes on it. UK's team is basically a non-student team. UF's team is a student team with occasional one and done's.

Just in case anyone was wondering what kind of nonsensical/contradictory/hypocritical statements I was referring to, Tampa has provided us with an example. Thanks.

[tampajack1]

Just in case anyone was wondering what kind of nonsensical/contradictory/hypocritical statements I was referring to, Tampa has provided us with an example. Thanks.

Really? What do you call it when your guys who get the bulk of the playing team go to school for 1 semester and then turn pro? I call that a non-student team.

[REM08]

Really? What do you call it when your guys who get the bulk of the playing team go to school for 1 semester and then turn pro? I call that a non-student team.

We disagree on that, but this isn't the point. Also, every single freshmen under Cal has gone to school for at least two semesters except for the freshman that wasn't originally recruited by Cal.

If you're consistent, than you must be hoping that Randle and Parker do not choose to play for your gators. Furthermore, you're upset that both Walker AND Hill chose Florida in the same year. The fact is that Billy (a coach you must not like anymore) would LOVE to depend heavily on Hill, Walker, Parker, and Randle next year. 4 guys in one year, who does that sound like? He wanted Poythress badly as well - although that might mean no ship for Parker. He's gone after multiple OAD's (potential at least) in years past as well. Would your roster look differently if he'd landed each one he wanted? Definitely.

Hope you have fun cheering for this years team, cause you must hate the idea of next year when you'll have multiple freshmen that attend classes, are quality kids, and are good enough that they may decide to enter the draft as a lottery pick after only one year. Oh the humanity!

[tupacbiff]

We disagree on that, but this isn't the point. Also, every single freshmen under Cal has gone to school for at least two semesters except for the freshman that wasn't originally recruited by Cal.

If you're consistent, than you must be hoping that Randle and Parker do not choose to play for your gators. Furthermore, you're upset that both Walker AND Hill chose Florida in the same year. The fact is that Billy (a coach you must not like anymore) would LOVE to depend heavily on Hill, Walker, Parker, and Randle next year. 4 guys in one year, who does that sound like? He wanted Poythress badly as well - although that might mean no ship for Parker. He's gone after multiple OAD's (potential at least) in years past as well. Would your roster look differently if he'd landed each one he wanted? Definitely.

Hope you have fun cheering for this years team, cause you must hate the idea of next year when you'll have multiple freshmen that attend classes, are quality kids, and are good enough that they may decide to enter the draft as a lottery pick after only one year. Oh the humanity!

Talk about a total lack of perspective. You are solidifying the UK stereotype of being totally irrational.

[don23lucia]

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1378651-college-basketball-recruiting-sizing-up-the-best-uncommitted-recruits?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=florida-gators-basketball#/articles/1378651-college-basketball-recruiting-sizing-up-the-best-uncommitted-recruits/page/9

Its been pretty quiet in regards to the top targets on our list so far this week.

[don23lucia]

John Calipari sits on top of the mountain in the world of college basketball. However, being king doesn’t make him immune to a problem. This is elite recruiting, and every action comes with a reaction.

And there’s reason to believe a recent addition in Lexington is cause for a little case of nervousness typically uncommon at Kentucky.


Ned Dishman/Getty Images
No. 1 junior Andrew Wiggins has seen his recruitment change since Kentucky picked up senior wing James Young.The good news for UK fans is that wing James Young (Rochester, Mich./Rochester) is a Wildcat. The bad news for UK fans is that James Young is a Wildcat.

At least it could be from the perspective of another elite player.

Did No. 1 junior Andrew Wiggins (Thornhill, Ontario/Huntington Prep) alter his view of Kentucky once it landed Young? Is that why other schools are probing him this week?

“I think that’s what it was,” Huntington coach Rob Fulford said. “Andrew’s never said that I’m down to Kentucky and Florida State. That’s never come out of his mouth. They were perceived to be the favorites, and I think other schools didn’t want to recruit against Kentucky because they didn’t think they could beat them. Florida State is in there because mom and dad went there.

“When James Young committed, schools thought UK had a small forward and they wanted to start recruiting him. Ohio State started reaching out to him. North Carolina’s always been in there. Kansas called and had been trying (to recruit him).”

From an outsider’s perspective, there’s little denying that Young’s commitment caused a ripple. Calipari has been to see Wiggins twice this fall. Florida State’s Leonard Hamilton has been once. North Carolina’s Roy Williams came this week, and Ohio State and Kansas will have sent assistants by the time you finish reading this blog.

Young’s pledge to Kentucky cracked the door open for others to attempt to recruit Wiggins. At the very least, it offered up a ray of hope. “I think that’s fair to say,” said one coach trying to nudge into the mix. “When we saw that, it’s why we tried to get involved.”

Let’s be honest, Ohio State and Kansas hadn’t previously been major players with Wiggins. North Carolina had been recruiting Wiggins, but during the summer it was Kentucky and Florida State that went out of their way to watch Wiggins in Canada while other head coaches were assigned to domestic targets.

What happens from here and who gets into his recruitment is still to be determined. Regardless, that’s not the biggest issue on Wiggins’ plate at the moment. Behind the scenes, Wiggins and his family are weighing the issue of whether to move into the senior class or remain a junior.

Here’s something to think about: Would Young’s commitment to Kentucky cause as much of a ripple or mean anything to Wiggins if he was staying in the 2014 class?

My take is that when you combine the commitment by Young and the subsequent interest being ramped up by KU, UNC and OSU you have at least reason to wonder about Wiggins reclassifying as a senior. If he remains a junior he’ll be ineligible for the 2014 McDonald's All-America game and another year away from the NBA draft. Both are issues a typical elite recruit will consider.

What remains to be seen is how Kentucky manages the situation. Fulford admitted Young’s addition to Kentucky definitely affected Wiggins’ recruitment.

“It’s in direct correlation with James Young that the other schools have picked up," Fulford said. "Now they figure they have a sales pitch.”

Kentucky has made its pitch to Wiggins clear in advance of any commitment.

“Calipari told him upfront that they’re going to have other guys, and if you’re not willing to play with other superstars then this isn’t the place for you,” Fulford said.

Wiggins knew Kentucky wouldn't pass up an opportunity to add a top-10 player. Regardless of Young's addition, the Wildcats will be in the mix.

Kentucky doesn’t need Wiggins -- but it sure would like to have him. No good general wants the opposing army to have a game-changing weapon. Kentucky isn't used to going into battle without the best weaponry.

The question is: Can it shoehorn another high-flying weapon into its arsenal?

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/dave-telep/post/_/id/2567/new-schools-emerge-for-no-1-junior-wiggins

Interesting article on Wiggins, I think where ever he lands he will make a huge impact immediately.

[GatorLurker]

Why would any potential UK recruit worry about somebody recruited to their position the year before them? If the guy in front is not good enough to be 1-and-done and your are, then you take their place. If he is 1-and-done he is gone. What am I missing here? Isn't that the Coach C model?

[REM08]

I'm not sure I expect Young to be one and done. Whether he is or isn't, I don't think UK necessarily has him penciled in as a starter whether they get Wiggins or not.

Wiggins doesn't have to worry about ANYBODY. He can go to any school and start from day one. He's unreal - a totally different level than anyone else in either of his classes. Hypothetically, Wiggins wouldn't have to worry about having a primary role on UK's team even if UK added Parker on top of Young. Watch a video of this kid.

That being said, I'm not sure he's necessarily UK bound. I love Cal's pitch to him. It goes against how most people think Cal deals with recruits (panders to them). Its the same pitch he always makes and I think it comes across as a challenge to kids who are ultra competitive. I also don't think desperation from a coach appeals to many recruits (unless they've got ego issues) these days. I think UK has a good shot and nobody I know (who might know) thinks Young's committment will scare him away. Don't underestimate his interest in FSU though. I know some UK fans (like Jeff I think) are confident, but FSU worries me with him.

Recently Wiggins has invited other schools to recruit him. Anyone think Donovan would contact him?

[InstiGATOR1]

Recently Wiggins has invited other schools to recruit him. Anyone think Donovan would contact him?

I am sure Donovan would contact him. What I wonder is when a kid whose parents both went to FSU wants more schools to recruit him, does more schools include UF? This is a business decision. So as we have seen in football and basketball at UF, kids with a tie to another rival, FSU, UGa, Miami etc at times picks UF.

[don23lucia]

Why would any potential UK recruit worry about somebody recruited to their position the year before them? If the guy in front is not good enough to be 1-and-done and your are, then you take their place. If he is 1-and-done he is gone. What am I missing here? Isn't that the Coach C model?



Hes more than likely going to reclass to this year instead of waiting another year.

[jshaas]

Huh?? ^^^^^

[GatorLurker]

Well, that changes things a bit.

[don23lucia]

Huh?? ^^^^^

He was supposed to graduate in 2014 now he is graduating in 2013 and will sign with a college and be playing college ball next fall instead of being a senior in high school....

Andrew Wiggins, the nation's top basketball player in the Class of 2014, is reclassifying into his original 2013 class.

More from ESPN.com
Now that he's moved into the 2013 class, there are some who believe Andrew Wiggins is the frontrunner to be the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NBA draft, writes Paul Biancardi. Blog

No. 1 prospect Andrew Wiggins deciding on Thursday to reclassify to the 2013 class is a game-changing recruiting development, writes Dave Telep. Blog

• 2013 Recruiting Rankings

The move by Wiggins, a native of Thornhill, Ontario, comes with a new ranking -- No. 1 prospect in the senior class.

Huntington (W. Va.) Prep coach Rob Fulford confirmed Wiggins and his family decided Thursday to announce the decision. The 6-foot-7 small forward was the best prospect at last summer's LeBron James Skills Academy and was the clear-cut choice for the top spot in 2014.

Wiggins moving to No. 1 in 2013 means senior small forward Jabari Parker of Chicago Simeon moves to the No. 2 slot. Parker, a three-time Illinois state champion and two-time USA Basketball gold medalist, is one of the strongest No. 2 overall players ever in the ESPN 100.

Wiggins, an athletic specimen whose father played at Florida State, is strongly considering the Seminoles and Kentucky. North Carolina coach Roy Williams visited his school this week, and Ohio State and Kansas are expected to be at Huntington Prep this week.

Wiggins, who is a month older than Parker, had been contemplating this move since the summer. By coming back into his original class, Wiggins is now eligible for the McDonald's All-American game next March and any other postseason all-star events.

[+] Enlarge
Chris Williams/Icon SMI
Andrew Wiggins became the top overall recruit for 2013 when he reclassified from the Class of 2014 on Thursday.
Parker's father, Sonny Parker, told ESPNChicago.com that he did not understand why Wiggins passed his son in the recruiting rankings.

"Based on what? That's what I'm asking," Sonny Parker told ESPNChicago.com. "Based on a few weeks of AAU? The AAU stuff is overrated. Jabari was the national freshman of the year, the national sophomore of the year, the Gatorade national player of the year as a junior.

"High school is more important to Jabari. He's won three straight titles and wants to win a fourth this year. You talk about athleticism. Jabari can play the 1 through 5 at 6-foot-9. It's just peoples' opinions."

Regarded as one of the finest athletes in high school basketball, Wiggins would have been the No. 1 player in 2012, 2013 or 2014. A scoring ace with tremendous size, he consistently demonstrated deep range, the ability to finish and exceptional long-term potential.

The move by Wiggins causes a ripple effect throughout the rankings. The new No. 1 player in 2014 is Tyus Jones of Apple Valley, Minn., formerly the nation's No. 2 prospect in 2014. Meanwhile, junior forward Victor Law of Chicago cracks the ESPN 60 for the first time.

http://espn.go.com/college-sports/recruiting/basketball/mens/story/_/id/8551419/andrew-wiggins-reclassifies-class-2013-new-no-1-recruit

[dailydoublecat]

I feel rather confident with UK people I trust Wiggins will be at Kentucky. I'm sure there will be smoke and many articles that mention new players in his recruitment but he will choose Kentucky in the end.
Jeff

[madgator]

Wiggins will definitely be going to a Nike school.......BANK on that!

which eliminates Kansas

[jshaas]

So can Kentucky also take randle along with wiggins

[dailydoublecat]

So can Kentucky also take randle along with wiggins

The answer is yes but Randle is strong with Florida.

[REM08]

So can Kentucky also take randle along with wiggins

Kentucky has 12 players on scholarship this year. 3 of them are walkons who only get a scholarship if one is unused. 2 of them graduate at the end of this year. That leaves us with 7 who have a scholarship if they return. Hood will return, Wiltjer will too. This leaves the 5 potential early entry candidates. My guess is 3 or 4 go and 1 or 2 come back. Obviously Kentucky has scholarships to work with.

I don't, however, think this means its inevitable that UK lands everyone they're going after. It only means they have the scholarships available if they did.

[your_perfect_enemy]

I feel rather confident with UK people I trust Wiggins will be at Kentucky. I'm sure there will be smoke and many articles that mention new players in his recruitment but he will choose Kentucky in the end.
Jeff

I know we play uk 2 or 3 times a year and fsu only once, but I hate fsu so much I'd rather him go to uk and beat us every time than fsu have any sliver of success.

[don23lucia]

The answer is yes but Randle is strong with Florida.

Sounds good to me

[jshaas]

Double that sounds a little promising. Something change or do you have more info?

[dailydoublecat]

Double that sounds a little promising. Something change or do you have more info?

Jshaas the people I trust keep saying don't sleep on Florida and Randle. Not new info but great news for UF fans.
Jeff

[don23lucia]

Duke fans welcomed Jabari Parker on his official visit this weekend with a sign that read, “Jabari Welcome Home” and chants of “Jabari Parker” from the Cameron Crazies.

(The photo was Tweeted by Mark Joseph Baden.)

The 6-foot-9 Parker — who lost his top spot in the 2013 recruiting rankings to Andrew Wiggins — recently cut his list to Duke, Michigan State, Florida, Stanford and BYU.

He has now visited Michigan State and Duke, with Florida (Nov. 2-4), Stanford (Nov. 9-11) and Brigham Young later in November all set up.

His father, Sonny Parker, has already said his son will not sign until the spring period.

“He’ll probably commit if he can’t sign on those days (in November),” Sonny Parker told the AP. “That’s what I’m hearing from him. And he’ll sign in the spring.”

But while Duke and Michigan State remain the perceived favorites, there remains the question of whether Parker will ever step foot on a college campus.

Because Parker may take his Mormon mission beginning next year, he could theoretically do his two-year mission beginning at age 18 and then head straight to the NBA two years later — perhaps for the 2015 NBA Draft.

Would he still be as attractive to the NBA at that point?

“Sure he would,” said one NBA Director of Scouting. “But he would unquestionably lose a bit of luster, having not played. But not playing for a year didn’t hurt [former Kentucky player Enes] Kanter that bad.”

After missing an entire year at Kentucky over eligibility issues, Kanter was the No. 3 pick in the 2011 NBA Draft and averaged 4.6 points and 4.2 rebounds in his rookie season with the Utah Jazz.

http://zagsblog.com/articles/duke-hosts-jabari-parker/#more-81971

[don23lucia]

We're coming down the homestretch, streaking toward the early signing period, which begins Nov. 14 and runs through Nov. 21. We know that not every guy on this list is going to sign early, but some will. The purpose of this composition is to point out which programs are prime contenders for the ESPN 100 players who have not yet made a verbal commitment or have decommitted and opened up their recruitment.

We've added four-star Joel Embiid (Gainesville, Fla./The Rock School) to this list, even though he's not currently in the ESPN 100. That'll change in January when the rankings are re-evaluated. Also included is Nigel Hayes (Toledo, Ohio/Whitmer), who got bumped from the 100 when a pair of 2014 stars jumped back into the 2013 end of the pool.



Florida
Top targets: SF Jabari Parker, PF Julius Randle, C Joel Embiid, SG Keith Frazier

Florida is the only school involved with both Randle and Parker. The Gators have been bumping into Kansas a lot on the recuiting trail (see Randle and Embiid).

[don23lucia]

Thanks to a pair of top 10 ESPN 100 prospects, Florida's Billy Donovan has already put together one of the top recruiting classes in the country.

With local products and AAU teammates Kasey Hill (Eustis, Fla./Montverde Academy) and Chris Walker (Bonifay, Fla./Holmes County) already on board, the Gators have one of the best point guards and power forwards in the country heading to Gainesville next year.

This weekend, the rich will look to get richer as the Gators host No. 2 senior Jabari Parker (Chicago/Simeon) officially and No. 9 junior Justise Winslow (Houston/Saint John’s) unofficially.

[+] Enlarge

John F. Rhodes for ESPN.com
Jabari Parker is ranked No. 2 overall in the 2013 class.Parker, of course, long held the title of the best overall prospect nationally in the Class of 2013 until Andrew Wiggins (Thornhill, Ontario/Huntington Prep) recently reclassified. This will be Parker's third official visit after seeing Michigan State and Duke the last two weekends.

While Parker’s trip to Duke reportedly made a big impression on him, there's a lot to like about what Florida has to offer. The skilled 6-foot-8 forward would fit in nicely with Hill’s ability to attack off the dribble and Walker’s high-wire act around the rim. The combination of Walker and Parker would be particularly intriguing along the Florida frontline because they would give Donovan the versatility to go with a big lineup -- playing them at the four and three, respectively -- or go small with them at the five and the four.

The fact that Parker could very easily be a one-and-done lottery pick isn’t lost on anyone, most of all the staff at Florida, and that’s why they have no problem bringing in Parker and Winslow on the same weekend. Winslow is rated the No. 2 small forward prospect in the ESPN 60.

Assuming Parker will already be in the NBA two years from now, Winslow would have every opportunity to step into the starting spot. If Parker remained in Gainesville, that’s where the versatility of a Parker/Walker frontline would be crucial as it would allow all three talented youngsters to play together in Florida’s frontcourt -- a point that undoubtedly will come up at some point this weekend.

Regardless of how well this weekend may go for Florida, there is no expectation of a commitment in the next 48 hours. This is Winslow’s latest unofficial visit after taking recent trips to Baylor, Arizona and UCLA while previously seeing Kansas, North Carolina, Stanford, Texas A&M and South Florida.

As for Parker, he appears poised to play this process out. He’ll take his fourth official visit (to Stanford) next weekend before making his final trip to BYU later this month. The possibility also exists that Parker could delay college by two years -- or bypass it altogether -- if he elects to take his Mormon mission following his high school graduation, after which he would then be eligible to go straight to the NBA draft according to the collective bargaining agreement.

But even without the likelihood of a commitment, there's no doubt this is a big weekend for Florida hoops.

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/national/post/_/id/4327/gators-host-top-10-recruits-parker-winslow

[jagervol01]

Austin Nichols committed to Memphis today. His sister is a student at Tenn and we thought we had him. She kept tweeting that he was coming but I guess she is either a tease or doesn't know her bro that well. Lol Anyway their class is looking just as good as yours at this point.

[gatorfan12]

Well Dakari Johnson just reclassed to 2013. This is very interesting. His top 4 are Syracuse, UK, UF, and Georgetown. I'm not sure whether I want him or Joel Embiid. Thoughts?

[StrangeGator]

Well Dakari Johnson just reclassed to 2013. This is very interesting. His top 4 are Syracuse, UK, UF, and Georgetown. I'm not sure whether I want him or Joel Embiid. Thoughts?

They're not even close. We take Johnson in a heartbeat if we can get him. He's already the best center in the 2013 class.

[StrangeGator]

I like this scenario because we can slow play Embid and go full bore after Johnson. We take Embid if Johnson goes elsewhere and still go after Okafor for the 2014 class. Rivals has him ranked #1 overall in the 2014 class and I believe he's already visited UF. Must be a great student too. I think you have to be in the 90th percentile on the ISAT to get into Whitney Young. They have a good hoops program, plus I think he plays for the Mack Irvin Fire during AAU season.

[GatorsGators]

I like this scenario because we can slow play Embid and go full bore after Johnson. We take Embid if Johnson goes elsewhere and still go after Okafor for the 2014 class. Rivals has him ranked #1 overall in the 2014 class and I believe he's already visited UF. Must be a great student too. I think you have to be in the 90th percentile on the ISAT to get into Whitney Young. They have a good hoops program, plus I think he plays for the Mack Irvin Fire during AAU season.If we slow play Embiid, then we won't get him. You don't wait on UF when you have an offer to Kansas.

I honestly don't know who I would take between the two. Johnson is undoubtedly better RIGHT NOW, but Embiid may have the edge on Johnson in potential. Embiid would also fit our system better. It'll be interesting to see how Donovan handles this situation.

[don23lucia]

Unless Johnson has fallen in love with UF we werent even in the picture six months ago. His roots are in the northeast and my bet is that he will go there for college as well.

[don23lucia]

Joel Embiid, a 7-foot, 220-pound senior center from the Rock School in Gainesville, Fla., has cut his list to three schools.

“Down to Florida, Kansas and Texas,” Embiid, who has been playing basketball for less than two years, texted SNY.tv Wednesday night after Tweeting it.

He had also visited Marquette and Virginia. DePaul, Wake Forest, UCLA, GW and SMU were also involved.

Embiid is being assisted in the recruiting process by fellow Cameroon native Luc Mbah a Moute of the Milwaukee Bucks.

“We’re going to narrow it down to three schools next week,” Mbah a Moute told the Racine (Wis.) Journal-Times last week. “We’ll be looking for an opportunity to play a lot right away. He hasn’t played that long and needs to continue his development. And, of course, we’re going to look at academics and what these schools can offer him.”

[don23lucia]

Jabari Parker, the nation's No. 2 senior out of Chicago's Simeon Career Academy, does not have a favorite in the recruiting process, and teams after him might not see him in the Dec. 1 opener due to a fracture in his right foot.


Parker has visited Michigan State, Duke and Florida the past three weekends and still plans to visit Stanford and BYU in November. His final visit will be to BYU the weekend of Nov. 24. His father, Sonny Parker, said his son will commit after the early signing period (Nov. 14-21) and then sign in the spring.


"They've all been good," Sonny Parker said of the visits. "(Florida) coach (Billy) Donovan has a good team. They got some good players. Florida, they're doing well in all sports, and the weather was nice (last weekend.) Michigan State is good. You got coach (Tom) Izzo. You got Coach K (Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski.) They've all won national championships. He's selected some good schools.


"I talked to him the other day. He's got to choose what is going to be the right fit for him. That's where we're at. Once we get through the visits, he'll start deciding where everyone is, start doing the comparisons."


Aside from making visits, Parker has been busy with rehab on his right foot, which he fractured during the summer. According to Sonny Parker, his son will have another MRI taken on Nov. 19, and there is a possibility he won't be ready for Simeon's season opener on Dec. 1.


"We don't know a target date," Sonny Parker said. "He's still in a boot. He hasn't played in four months. He has got to get back and perform and get in shape. It doesn't give him much time from the 19th to the 1st. He's never been out this long. The worst thing to do with an injury is come back too soon and now you reinjure it and it could be his season. We're in no rush. We'll probably know something on Nov. 19."


As a junior, Parker was named the ESPNChicago.com Player of the Year, Illinois' Mr. Basketball and the national Gatorade Player of the Year. He averaged 19.5 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 3.3 blocks and 1.4 steals a game.


Parker was ESPN's No. 1-ranked player until Andrew Wiggins reclassified from the Class of 2014 to the Class of 2013 recently.

[StrangeGator]

Unless Johnson has fallen in love with UF we werent even in the picture six months ago. His roots are in the northeast and my bet is that he will go there for college as well.

We're in his top three, along with Syracuse and Kentucky, and we were the only one to offer. That was before he reclassified. Syracuse is the only northeastern team in his top three and they still haven't offered him a ship, nor has Kentucky. Kentucky only has one ship left for this class and they're still waiting to hear from Wiggins and Randall. I don't know if he's fallen in love with UF, but we appear to be in good shape.

[REM08]

We're in his top three, along with Syracuse and Kentucky, and we were the only one to offer. That was before he reclassified. Syracuse is the only northeastern team in his top three and they still haven't offered him a ship, nor has Kentucky. Kentucky only has one ship left for this class and they're still waiting to hear from Wiggins and Randall. I don't know if he's fallen in love with UF, but we appear to be in good shape.

Kentucky only has one remaining scholarship if absolutely everyone (that can return) returns. I think a conservative estimate is having 2 or 3 early entrees - which would mean 3 or 4 remaining schollys.

That being said, I dont' know anything about UK's interest in this player.

[StrangeGator]

Kentucky only has one remaining scholarship if absolutely everyone (that can return) returns. I think a conservative estimate is having 2 or 3 early entrees - which would mean 3 or 4 remaining schollys.

That being said, I dont' know anything about UK's interest in this player.

Wasn't thinking about roster limits, but the 5/8 rule. Aren't there already four committed for the '13 class? Either Wiggins or Randle would put KY at five.

With Noel a likely one-and-done and Cauley waiting in the wings, Johnson was probably a good target for '14, but not a need for this year. Though it looks like you guys have already offered Okafor. That will be an interesting recruiting battle next year. His high schools is about six or seven miles from where I live, so I hope to see him play a few games this year.

[REM08]

Wasn't thinking about roster limits, but the 5/8 rule. Aren't there already four committed for the '13 class? Either Wiggins or Randle would put KY at five.

With Noel a likely one-and-done and Cauley waiting in the wings, Johnson was probably a good target for '14, but not a need for this year. Though it looks like you guys have already offered Okafor. That will be an interesting recruiting battle next year. His high schools is about six or seven miles from where I live, so I hope to see him play a few games this year.

The 5/8 rule doesn't exist anymore (I forget that also sometimes). Already 5 committed for 13 (willis, harrisons, lee, young).

I agree with what you seem to be thinking with Johnson though. My uninformed guess might be Syracuse or you guys.

[don23lucia]

The basketball early signing period begins next Wednesday, and RecruitingNation has got you covered with daily coverage of all the signings and commitments during the jam-packed week. We kick off our coverage today with a Twitter mailbag. We’ve enlisted the services of ESPN National Recruiting Director Paul Biancardi to shed some light on some of your recruiting questions leading up to the early signing period.

Let’s get to your questions.

[+] Enlarge

Nick Koza
Aaron Gordon is the second-ranked PF and No. 7 overall prospect in the ESPN 100.
Q: Where do you think Aaron Gordon will go? -- @LobbyBuu
A: He plays for the Oakland Soldiers AAU team and has former and current teammates playing everywhere. This weekend he visits Kentucky, where Kyle Wiltjer plays, and Nick Johnson is at Arizona. I think it will be between Arizona and Kentucky at the end of the day. And don’t count out Cal. Jabari Bird is committed to California.

Q: Does UF have a chance with Julius Randle and Jabari Parker? -- @GatorNation_15
A: Billy Donovan has done a tremendous job recruiting both guys. Here’s one thing to note. Randle played USA Basketball for Donovan and they won a gold medal together. Randle told me he credits Donovan for helping him see the game better. They developed a good bond and Julius spoke highly of him. They both really like Donovan. You get either of them along with Chris Walker and Kasey Hill -- that’s three top 10 guys. That’s an amazing class and would be one of Donovan’s best classes ever.

Q: Who should Kentucky focus on recruiting: The old or new 2013 kids? And what doors does this open for certain teams (Ex: NC State)? -- @tCannada
A: Of the reclassified guys, Kentucky is only pursuing Wiggins and Johnson. They should continue with their pursuit of the 2013 kids and these two guys as well. Don’t forget, each year Kentucky loses a lot. All of their targets can make an impact next year except Johnson, he needs more development before he impacts things at that level.

I think NC State will land BeeJay Anya, maybe during the early period.

Q: When do you think Brandon Austin will commit and what are UConn’s chances? -- @B_WRecruiting
A: Most likely, he will commit before the end of the Early Signing Period. Some of the schools in the mix for him are Providence, UConn, Texas, Georgetown, Temple and Rutgers. I think UConn is involved, but I think the other schools are in deeper with him. I’m going to go with Texas as the favorite.

Q: What other recruits are likely to commit to Ohio State? -- @bobbyjewell101
A: Nigel Hayes is the guy they have the best shot at getting. He’s from Toledo, the hometown of former Buckeye Jimmy Jackson. It’s between them and Wisconsin. His game in a nutshell: He’s a skilled combo forward who can shoot it, beat you off the dribble or spin away from defenders to score.

Looking at the ESPN 100, I know they’re trying with Andrew Wiggins, the no. 1 player in the country, Noah Vonleh after he reclassified and Dakari Johnson, the big guy. I think they’re going to work real hard to get one of those guys. Not sure if it will happen, but it’s a long time until April when those guys will commit.


Scott Kurtz for ESPN.com
Julius Randle is the No. 4 player in the ESPN 100 and has offers from KU, UK and Florida.
Q: Do the Sooners have a realistic shot with Julius Randle? -- @msturdy51
A: A lot of things would have to go right. Kentucky and Kansas would both have to get someone big. And there’s still Texas out there. The Sooners are a long shot; I wouldn’t put my mortgage on that one.

Q: When do you think Kennedy Meeks will announce his college choice? -- @ACblessed_7
A: Kennedy Meeks is warming up to his decision and it could be in the next week. Doesn’t mean he’ll pull the trigger, but I think he’s hot to make a decision. Roy Williams and Georgetown assistant Kenya Hunter were in the gym to see him Wednesday night. It’s a two-horse race for this stud of a center. Nobody has better hands than Kennedy Meeks.

Q: Point guard is a major issue for Arizona moving forward. Why haven’t they gone after one in 2013? -- @SterlinAndretti
A: I know Mark Lyons transferred there from Xavier and will be manning the point this season, but it's Duquesne transfer T.J. McConnell, a junior with two years of eligibility remaining, who will be the Wildcats' point guard of the future. And although they’re both shooting guards by nature, coach Sean Miller will most likely play Nick Johnson and Gabe York at point some in an attempt to groom them for a possible position change in the future.



http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/national/post?id=4401

[don23lucia]

Florida
Top targets: SF Jabari Parker, PF Julius Randle, C Joel Embiid, C Dakari Johnson

The Gators added a top-tier target to their wish list this week when Johnson announced his 2013 reclassification. They're going to get one of these guys; the odds are in their favor. They are involved with too many good players to miss on all four.

[unclepaulie]

Randle looking good for Florida...

:wink:

[StrangeGator]

Randle looking good for Florida...

:wink:

Really? That would be awesome. Would like to see us add Johnson or Embid as well. That would be a formidable class.

[jeffphillips21]

Florida
Top targets: SF Jabari Parker, PF Julius Randle, C Joel Embiid, C Dakari Johnson

The Gators added a top-tier target to their wish list this week when Johnson announced his 2013 reclassification. They're going to get one of these guys; the odds are in their favor. They are involved with too many good players to miss on all four.

according to Bullis Dakari and Embiid likely out, so down to Parker and Randle. i think we have a better/legit shot at Randle.

Here's to hoping

[rserina]

Randle looking good for Florida...

:wink:
Hopefully you are right on this one, too. Randle always seemed like a long shot to me because we have never done well with kids in that part of the country (great in northeast, midwest, less so Texas/SW), but his relationship with Donovan and the prospect of playing with Hill/Walker has us in position. He sure would fit nicely at the five for us.

[gulfgator]

Getting Randle could make UF the team to beat, seems to really like Billy.

C'mon my man, you could be the "Orange Julius" of the Gator nation ;)

[StrangeGator]

according to Bullis Dakari and Embiid likely out, so down to Parker and Randle. i think we have a better/legit shot at Randle.

Here's to hoping

I know Embid is probably out. Last I read about Johnson, he hasn't even started the process yet and won't make any official visits until after his season is over. If he is out, I'm guessing Syracuse is the leader.

[don23lucia]

Kansas won a significant recruiting battle, receiving a verbal commitment from four-star center Joel Embiid (Cameroon/The Rock). Bill Self's program edged out Florida and Texas for Embiid's commitment, which he announced Tuesday, less than 24 hours before the early signing period was to begin.


Embiid, a 6-foot-11 native of Cameroon, is not currently in the ESPN 100, but will make his debut in January when the rankings are re-evaluated after the summer he had. New to basketball, Embiid was learning the ropes before emerging late in the summer and then showing well in front of college coaches in the fall. It's reasonable to consider him a top-20-level recruit.


Embiid's commitment moves Kansas' Class of 2013 to second behind Kentucky.




More From ESPNRecruitingNation
Kansas' Class of 2013 received another boost with the signing of four-star center Joel Embiid. Story

• KU's Class: Up to second

Following a visit to Kansas, Embiid knew the Jayhawks would be difficult to beat.


"When I was visiting schools I wanted to go and see what they got," Embiid said. "After my visit I knew that Kansas was good. Luc talked to some people in the NBA and they said that the player development was good at Kansas."


The "Luc" Embiid referred to is Milwaukee Bucks forward Luc Richard Mbah a Moute. Also a native of Cameroon, Mbah a Moute served as a mentor to Embiid once the center graduated from the "Basketball Without Borders" program.


Embiid did a lot of homework. As a developing big man, he switched high schools this year -- from Montverde (Fla.) Academy to The Rock School (Gainesville, Fla.) -- in search of more playing time, and his college approach was measured. In the end, it came down to player development.


"For me, it was the first thing," Embiid said. "It's not about playing time. I'll get playing time if I'm ready. The first thing was the development. After looking and seeing what they've done I think Kansas is the best fit for me."


Justin Harden, Embiid's coach at The Rock, sees a hungry, intelligent diamond in the rough.


"It's his ability to learn and pick up stuff," Harden said. "Sometimes when kids are new to the game ... he's picked up the game faster than some of the guys I've had. His combination of size, athletic ability and coordination is something."


Embiid's more prospect than player at this stage. His senior season is big on a number of fronts. For starters, he's got to continue his development, which has been steady since the spring. He'll also need to establish himself in terms of consistency and production. This will be his first full season of organized basketball in which he's counted on to produce. The young center sees the big picture. He's hungry and patient.


"I would say I look forward to playing games against big guys my size," Embiid said. "I want to learn and make it to league."

[don23lucia]

Coveted power forward Julius Randle (Dallas, Texas/Prestonwood Christian Academy) will ultimately choose between Texas, Florida, Kentucky, NC State, Kansas and Oklahoma as the place where he plays college ball, and while it's never a good idea to rule out UK coach John Calipari when it comes to recruiting elite talent, at least one expert believes Randle won't end up in Lexington.

The Wildcats already have secured commitments from three of the top six recruits in the ESPN 100, and pledges from Marcus Lee and Derek Willis give them two power forwards in their 2013 class. That hasn't stopped them from recruiting Randle and Aaron Gordon, though, and the question now becomes whether either of the high-profile power forwards will be willing to battle for minutes and sign with the title-contending Wildcats.

In the case of Randle, ESPN's No. 4 recruit in 2013, Dave Telep of Recruiting Nation boldly predicts today that he ends up elsewhere.

- Joe Kaiser



Dave Telep
Bold prediction: Randle won't end up at Kentucky

"Randle won't join the Harrison twins in college. I know what everyone's saying, that they all wouldn't mind playing together. When the Miami Heat put its Big Three in motion, it helped that LeBron, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh were good friends. But I think it would be an upset if the three best players in Texas wind up at Kentucky."

[gatordd]

Randle is going to be a Gator or a Longhorn. My money is on the good guys.

[REM08]

Randle is going to be a Gator or a Longhorn. My money is on the good guys.

Everyone DOES seem to be saying Florida or Texas. I think I'd lean Florida also. I imagine tupac could come up with quite a post were Randle to consciously choose Texas to play basketball at.

[Osiris_DPM]

As of now, I do not think Randle will pick Texas.

#SWAG

[gatorcal]

"...Luc talked to some people in the NBA and they said that the player development was good at Kansas."

The "Luc" Embiid referred to is Milwaukee Bucks forward Luc Richard Mbah a Moute. Also a native of Cameroon, Mbah a Moute served as a mentor to Embiid once the center graduated from the "Basketball Without Borders" program.

"For me, it was the first thing," Embiid said. "It's not about playing time. I'll get playing time if I'm ready. The first thing was the development. After looking and seeing what they've done I think Kansas is the best fit for me."

Guess Luc forgot about those 2 a$$-whoopins that Donovan's big men put on he and his UCLA buddies.

[unclepaulie]

Randle will not sign or commit in the early period but we are looking real strong with this highly touted player. I am very excited :happy: and we never know how these things go but strong strong chance on him.

[InstiGATOR1]

Here is an article by Jeff Borzello at CBSsportsline.com:

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/recruiting/blog/eye-on-college-basketball-recruiting/20974266/whos-left-breaking-down-the-top-uncommitted-players

It predicts for various UF prospects:

Jabari Parker (No. 2)

Considering: Michigan State, Duke, Florida, BYU, Stanford

Parker does not plan on making a decision in the next few weeks, as he still plans to visit BYU and Stanford. Could Florida make a run?

Prediction: Michigan State

Julius Randle (No. 6)

Considering: Florida, Texas, Kentucky, North Carolina State, Kansas, Oklahoma

Kentucky has faded somewhat in Randle's recruitment, with Texas and Florida in the lead. Visits to NC State and Kansas are on the docket.

Prediction: Texas

Dakari Johnson (No. 8)

Considering: Florida, Syracuse, Kentucky, Georgetown, Kansas, Ohio State

The elite big man only reclassified recently, so his recruitment hasn't revved up too much. Florida, Kentucky, Syracuse and Georgetown are heard the most.

Prediction: Syracuse

[don23lucia]

Florida head coach Billy Dononvan announced the signing of two top flight prospects on Wednesday.

ESPN 100 prospects Kasey Hill (Eustis, Fla./Montverde Academy) and Chris Walker (Bonifay, Fla./Holmes County) - both ranked in the top 10 in the 2013 classs - officially signed their letters of intent with the Gators.

Donovan's class ranks 5th on ESPN's RecruitingNation.

[don23lucia]

Here is an article by Jeff Borzello at CBSsportsline.com:

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/recruiting/blog/eye-on-college-basketball-recruiting/20974266/whos-left-breaking-down-the-top-uncommitted-players

It predicts for various UF prospects:

Is this the same guy that Kenny Boynton called a clown or something to that affect?

[InstiGATOR1]

BTW, my guess is:

1. Parker will come down to UF and BYU. If he goes to college, I am guessing he picks BYU. [Clearly I do not see this as the expert conventional wisdom does.]

2. Randle, I agree it is likely UF and UTx. I think he picks UF, the safer pick for him.

3. Johnson, I think it is just way way way too early in the process to know where he will pick.

[don23lucia]

BTW, my guess is:

1. Parker will come down to UF and BYU. If he goes to college, I am guessing he picks BYU. [Clearly I do not see this as the expert conventional wisdom does.]

2. Randle, I agree it is likely UF and UTx. I think he picks UF, the safer pick for him.

3. Johnson, I think it is just way way way too early in the process to know where he will pick.

I agree with you, but I feel we have a better shot at Parker than people think.

I think we end with both Parker and Randle.

I said in this thread or another thread that Johnson didnt even have us listed till after the summer circuit. He is a kid from the Northeast and I think he ends up with Syracuse. However he is playing ball this year with Hill so anything could happen should we lose out on either Randle or Parker.

Does anyone know what happened to Keith Frazier did we withdraw the offer from him or did he cut us down at one point in August he had us listed as his favorite?

[REM08]

I agree with you, but I feel we have a better shot at Parker than people think.

I think we end with both Parker and Randle.

I said in this thread or another thread that Johnson didnt even have us listed till after the summer circuit. He is a kid from the Northeast and I think he ends up with Syracuse. However he is playing ball this year with Hill so anything could happen should we lose out on either Randle or Parker.

Does anyone know what happened to Keith Frazier did we withdraw the offer from him or did he cut us down at one point in August he had us listed as his favorite?

That would be unreal. While I want Randle at UK, it'd be fun to see a Walker, Hill, Randle, Parker class.

I think it was Jeff Goodman that Boynton called out though.

[don23lucia]

It would be crazy, lets be real they could go and play anywhere in the country with any program they choose and be successfull. I just feel like with Parker his dad had said that they want him to go where his skill set would best be utilized and I feel like the best place for that to take place is at Florida.

With Randle it seems like we are just the flavor or the week so far I havent heard anything from his camp either. Its all speculation at this point two months ago no one thought that he would eliminate UNC or Duke and he has already done that so we shall see what happens.

I think we are in good position right now with Hill, Walker, DFS, and Harris coming next year.

[GatorLurker]

I think we end with both Parker and Randle.

I like the way you think.

That would be a fun class to see for a year. That would be an unbelievable class to see for two years.

[Osiris_DPM]

I like the way you think.

That would be a fun class to see for a year. That would be an unbelievable class to see for two years.

May as well go ahead and eliminate part 2 of the above statement from your thoughts

[InstiGATOR1]

I agree with you, but I feel we have a better shot at Parker than people think.

I think we end with both Parker and Randle.

I said in this thread or another thread that Johnson didnt even have us listed till after the summer circuit. He is a kid from the Northeast and I think he ends up with Syracuse. However he is playing ball this year with Hill so anything could happen should we lose out on either Randle or Parker.

Does anyone know what happened to Keith Frazier did we withdraw the offer from him or did he cut us down at one point in August he had us listed as his favorite?

1. I could see UF getting Parker and Randle. My thought on UF and BYU is that he fits them better than MSU and Duke.

2. Yeah Keith Frazier is an odd situation. I thought he and UF parted ways months ago, but from time to time his name comes up.

[InstiGATOR1]

Randle updated his USA Today blog on signing day:

http://www.usatodayhss.com/news/article/julius-randle-blog-signing-day-oklahoma-recruiting

[StrangeGator]

Randle updated his USA Today blog on signing day:

http://www.usatodayhss.com/news/article/julius-randle-blog-signing-day-oklahoma-recruiting

That's the first I heard about Mickey Mitchell's injury. Hope he makes a complete recovery. I've already got him pencilled in for 2015.

[don23lucia]

This was also the first that I have heard of his injury. Hopefully he can come back and make a full recovery.

[uf1978]

From the article it sounds like an injury, but if I remember correctly, he was going to transfer to a school in Florida.

[MoscowGtr]

2. Randle, I agree it is likely UF and UTx. I think he picks UF, the safer pick for him.



Why would it be the safer pick for him (I am not challenging you; I know absolutely nothing about it--just wondering what you mean)?

[ufgator4ever]

What are odds for Parker. Riding train in chicago, some guys were really talking him up as a great one. They were saying florida is definitely in it. I said, if he goes to college at all.

[StrangeGator]

What are odds for Parker. Riding train in chicago, some guys were really talking him up as a great one. They were saying florida is definitely in it. I said, if he goes to college at all.

Surprised how much good info you can get on high school hoops players riding the CTA, especially on the Green line on the west or south side.

[don23lucia]

Kentucky’s dominance of the recruiting landscape has never been greater than it is right now, and for good reason. John Calipari’s won his first national championship last year, stars Anthony Davis and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist were taken with the first two picks of last year’s NBA Draft and the team has achieved unprecedented television exposure, giving college basketball’s greatest salesman a whole lot of new material to sell recruits on.

The Wildcats are so far ahead of everyone else in their 2013 recruiting class that our coverage of the early signing period has essentially removed them from the discussion, comparing Kentucky’s current recruiting class only to some of the best in history and, today, rating every other class in the country, after Kentucky.


Steven Maikoski-USA Basketball
Landing a commitment from No. 2 prospect Jabari Parker could lead to a significant rise in the ESPN class rankings.
The question that has yet to be asked is whether or not there is a program with even the slightest chance of catching Kentucky for the top spot in this year’s class rankings. And believe it or not, it is a possibility.

Florida is the only other program that has signed two top 10 prospects, with No. 9 Kasey Hill and No. 10 Chris Walker on board. The trio of Kenny Boynton, Erik Murphy and Mike Rosario are all graduating this year and the Gators have one more scholarship to play with as they hope to swing for the fences and land one of their remaining targets, with Jabari Parker, Julius Randle, and Dakari Johnson still on the board.

Here’s a quick disclaimer before we go further with any scenarios. Kentucky is also heavily involved with Randle and Johnson as well as No. 1 overall prospect Andrew Wiggins and Aaron Gordon. All they would need to do is land a commitment from one of those guys to mathematically guarantee their fourth top-rated class in the last five years. While it appears unlikely that Calipari will go 0-for-4 with the remaining elite prospects, let’s return to the scenario for arguments sake.

Let’s say Parker, the second overall prospect in the ESPN 100, picks Florida over Michigan State, Duke, Stanford, and BYU. Let’s also say that Wiggins chooses Florida State, where his parents were both college athletes and teammate Xavier Rathan-Mayes has already committed, over Kentucky. While both of those are legit possibilities, even in that scenario Kentucky would maintain its edge according to our ESPN formula.

Mathematically speaking, the only way that Florida could usurp Kentucky would be to land either Randle or Johnson, in addition to Parker. Now, for that to happen, Florida would need to come up with an extra scholarship, but attrition has become so common in this day and age of college basketball, that isn’t all that hard to imagine either.

So let’s say Wiggins to Florida State, low man on the Florida totem poll transfers, and Parker and Randle end up Gators. Now, Billy Donovan would have the top-ranked recruiting class in the country. All he would need then is to hope Gordon stays on the west coast at either Washington or Arizona (not farfetched considering Kentucky already has two PFs in their class) and Johnson to land with Georgetown (very reasonable given their need up front) or Ohio State.

So there you have it.

While Kentucky may be an Andrew Wiggins signature away from landing what could be one of the top recruiting classes in recent history, there is a potential scenario, albeit a long-winded one, that could give Florida the top recruiting class in the country.

Interview with parker if you checkout the link.

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/national/post/_/id/4524/can-anyone-challenge-kentuckys-no-1-class

[don23lucia]

Kentucky has been the center of the basketball recruiting universe this fall. The minute they picked up commitments from top-five twins Andrew and Aaron Harrison, the Wildcats vaulted into the No. 1 spot in the class rankings. And that position was only strengthened when they followed up by landing elite recruits James Young and Marcus Lee.

So when the early signing period began one week ago, much attention was paid to the Wildcats and the unstoppable recruiting juggernaut John Calipari has built.

But Kentucky isn't the only school putting together an excellent recruiting class. So as the signing period comes to a close on Wednesday, we wanted to dig deeper and give credit to some of the excellent recruiting classes that might have gotten lost in the Wildcats' shadow. Our panel of RecruitingNation experts is on the case.


Aside from Kentucky, what program had the most impressive early signing period?
[+] Enlarge
Courtesy of Andrew Shurtleff
Ridiculous hops and a penchant for big finishes should make Wayne Selden a star at Kansas.
Dave Telep: I'll take Bill Self and Kansas. We're talking about the No. 2 recruiting class in the country and the Jayhawks still have irons in the fire. To already have an elite class and still be involved with No. 1 prospect Andrew Wiggins, No. 4 Julius Randle and No. 12 Dakari Johnson is pretty scary. To me, the addition of Wayne Selden is the one that ensures Self will have a team guy who can embody winning, morph into whatever position they need and be a great host for recruits on their visits.

I also truly believe big man Joel Embiid has a legitimate chance to be a special talent. New to the country and the game, he's just scratching the surface. If we were to make a list of strictly long-term pro prospects, I can't think of a center in this class who would score higher. Now he has to go out and make it happen, but that's the kind of talent he is. Mix in a shooter and lead guard in Conner Frankamp, a tough point guard in Frank Mason and a long scorer in Brannen Greene and that's a heckuva class. Well done, Kansas.

Paul Biancardi: The SEC has been the dominant conference in 2013 recruiting, with by far more top-50 recruits (13) than any other league. And while Kentucky and Florida are the headliners in that group, what LSU is accomplishing can't be ignored with the No. 10 recruiting class. First-year LSU coach Johnny Jones has always been known as a relentless recruiter, and to have such recruiting success without yet seeing on-court success with the Tigers is a great sign for a program trying to move up.

Landing three ESPN 100 players who are not only talented but versatile is outstanding work. Equally impressive is that two of the three players are outside his backyard of Louisiana: Texas native Jordan Mickey and Georgia native Tim Quarterman. Mickey is a post with great upside and work ethic, while Quarterman is a scoring combo guard with a good feel for the game. Then Jones went out and secured a high-profile local standout in No. 15 prospect Jarrell Martin, who brings athleticism and shooting. Tigers fans will see the fruits of this labor in the future.

Reggie Rankin: The most impressive program from the early signing period after Kentucky is the No. 2 class from Kansas. The Jayhawks signed a group of talented and productive players across multiple positions who will be contributors from day one. Point guard Frank Mason is a terrific playmaker, combo guard Conner Frankamp can score and facilitate, and shooting guard Brannen Greene is a deep threat with size at 6-foot-6.

At the small forward position, Wayne Selden is as big and strong as most college wings right now, he scores through contact and he finishes above the rim with power. Down low, long and athletic center Joel Embiid runs, finishes, rebounds and blocks shots and has a huge upside. Bill Self has addressed his position needs with players who can provide immediate positive results.

[+] Enlarge
Courtesy of Adidas
Florida signee Kasey Hill is ranked No. 9 overall in the 2013 class.
Adam Finkelstein: I don't know that Billy Donovan could have hoped to be in a better position coming out of the early signing period than he is right now. With only three available scholarships heading into the 2013 class, Florida has not only signed two of the top 10 prospects in the country -- No. 9 Kasey Hill and No. 10 Chris Walker -- but the Gators have also refused to settle for anything less than an equally impactful player with that third and final spot.

Consequently, they remain in the hunt for some of the best remaining prospects in the class, like No. 2 Jabari Parker and No. 4 Julius Randle. Should Donovan land either of those two, he'll have his best class yet in Gainesville. If not, he's already assured himself one of the top classes in the country, currently ranked No. 6.

Joel Francisco: It was difficult choosing between Memphis and Kansas due to each school's recruiting haul. However, Kansas has been a traditional power for decades, while Memphis has been a tad inconsistent over the years. The Jayhawks are expected year in and year out to bring in upper-tier classes, and Bill Self has done that yet again. But Josh Pastner's No. 3-ranked class at Memphis is chock full of talent at multiple positions and includes four ESPN 100 players.

Power forward Austin Nichols, the No. 13 overall prospect, tipped the scales toward the Tigers, and rightfully so. Nichols is the most skilled post player in the class, and he can score in a variety of ways inside and out. And when it comes to overall talent, small forward Kuran Iverson is near the top of the class. Toss in fellow ESPN 100 prospects in wing Nick King and point guard Rashawn Powell and Pastner has his backcourt for the future. And don't forget about the vastly underrated Markel Crawford, a shooting guard who may start as a freshman due to his shooting prowess and physical intangibles.

[don23lucia]

Ever since Dakari Johnson announced earlier this month that he planned to move into the Class of 2013 from 2014, not much as been heard from the 6-foot-10 Montverde (Fla.) Academy big man or his family about his recruiting plans.

But his mother, Makini Campbell, spoke extensively to SNY.tv Tuesday about her son’s plans and the schools he’s considering.

Campbell reiterated that her son plans to sign in the spring period — along with fellow elite players Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker, Julius Randle and Aaron Gordon — and that he is considering Florida, Georgetown, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio State and Syracuse — for now.

“Because of the early signing period, we realize some things will kind of change,” Campbell told SNY.tv.

“Some schools will probably not be in the mix because of some players that signed, and also whether or not schools have availability [of scholarships]. We looked at some schools that they tend to have had verbal commitments from players that are very similar to Dakari, so now he’s kind of getting the thought, ‘Well, maybe that’s not really the school that I may want to consider.’ You know what I mean?”

**Kentucky is a major player for Johnson, in part, because he spent three years at Sayre’s Middle School in Lexington, Ky., and the family lived there “for about three, four years,” Campbell said. She confirmed that Kentucky had offered her son “weeks ago.”

“Kentucky is on his list,” Campbell said. “And we’re watching them. Most of the guys who signed there are not players like Dakari.”

Kentucky’s loaded class features guards, wings and forwards like Andrew and Aaron Harrison, James Young, Marcus Lee and Derek Willis, but no center.

“But we also noted you still have Nerlens Noel and Willie Cauley-Stein, which is similar to Dakari and so it’s a whole process, looking to see where you’re needed, what’s the best fit,” Campbell said.

She didn’t rule out Johnson joining forces with another big, such as a Noel or a Cauley-Stein, should one or both not go one-and-done.

“That could be good for him in a sense, you know what I mean?” she said. “Just like when he was at St. Pat’s and he had [recent Illinois commit] Austin Colbert. They complemented each other, especially in practice. It’s not that. You just kind of wonder if it’s the same kind of guy like yourself.”

Campbell said it’s also appealing that they have “friends and extended family” in Lexington.

“Actually, last Thanksgiving we spent time with his friends there, with his extended family,” she said. “So for him that is kind of like going back to something that ‘s very familiar and something that is likable.

“As a parent, with you not being there in the same place as your child, you always want, kids always say, ‘I have an aunt there’ or ‘I have an uncle there,’ there’s someone to kind of look after him,” she added. “So that’s comforting for me, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it might be the best fit for him, but I think that will definitely have an appeal for him.”

Kentucky’s record of one-and-dones to the NBA is also appealing.

“I’m sure it’s appealing,” she said. “One thing it says is that they are preparing for the guys for that next stage. I wouldn’t see why that wouldn’t be appealing…What he’s looking for in a school, too, is his development. Academically, he’ll be fine. He understands what he needs to do. He has a family of college graduates. He knows what he wants to study, he has his head on straight there but he does want to know that there’s going to be some development that takes place and that he’s going to play on a stage where he’s going to be recognized.”

**Syracuse has recently landed pledges from 2013 big man Chinonso Obokoh and 2014 forward Chris McCullough. They also have freshman big man DaJuan Coleman and sophomore big Rakeem Christmas, among others, on the roster.

“Well, I’m not clear, there’s a question mark on Syracuse,” Campbell said. “I’m not sure if one, a scholarship is available, two, whether or not, the players that were signed are very similar to Dakari, whether or not he can be an impact [player] there. That’s a question for him. He’s in analyzing stage right now.”

Campbell said she was uncertain if Coleman and/or Christmas might jump to the NBA after this season.

“It’s like if they’re there and the guys that they have signed are there, then it’s kind of like, does it make sense?” she said. “Would he be impactful there? Will there be a need for a player like Dakari?

“You kind of want to go somewhere where you’re needed.”

Still, Campbell pointed out that the family has a strong relationship with Orange assistant Adrian “Red’ Autry, who began recruiting Johnson when Autry was at Virginia Tech and Johnson was in middle school.

“It’s a longstanding relationship so that’s appealing,” she said of Autry.

**Another school that recently landed a 2013 big man is Kansas, which signed Joel Embiid as part of their class.

“One of his good friends, Jojo, who played for him last year, he just to committed to Kansas and so that’s a question mark for him right now,” Campbell said.

Still, she likes how Kansas “runs the ball through their bigs. They’ve been known to have bigs developed. Of course, Danny Manning is not there anymore, but that has been the appeal. And of course Coach [Norm] Roberts was here last year and he moved to Kansas. So he was recruiting Dakari for Florida and then went to Kansas…Of course, their history and tradition speaks for itself.”

**Florida is another option. He attends school in the state and his Montverde teammate, Kasey Hill, is headed to the Gators.

“We did an unofficial at Florida,” she said. “We met Coach [Billy] Donovan. He was probably one of the first coaches to sit us down the first time that they were able to come out and so it was really good because we were able to ask questions and talk about his offense.

“The point guard that he’s playing with this year is on his way to UF. I’m sure that’s appealing to him.”

**Georgetown is another option, and Campbell said her son was especially excited to watch the Hoyas play No. 1 Indiana Tuesday night in the Legends Classic final.

“He’s dying to watch them play Indiana,” she said.

He has also met with Coach John Thompson III.

“He presented his program and Georgetown itself, it speaks for itself,” she said. “Academically it’s a really good school. So their focus was on the big guy and of course they can back that up.”

**Ohio State is also in the mix and has had big men like Jared Sullinger make the NBA.

“Their tradition,” she said. “I spoke to their coaches and so that’s the appeal there. We’re going to explore that a little bit more, know more about that.”

To sum it all up, Campbell said, “I would say it’s even across the board. No one has stood out.”

[InstiGATOR1]

Why would it be the safer pick for him (I am not challenging you; I know absolutely nothing about it--just wondering what you mean)?

UF is the safer pick for Randle because:

1. He has already played for Donovan, he know what his practices are like, he knows his system some. Or put another way when all those coaches brought out their hardware, Donovan could send him to his room to get the gold metal Donovan coached him to. Seems to me that trumps.

2. Not only did Randle play for Donovan but he lead a team composed mostly of rising college Soph and Frosh in scoring while a rising high school SR. Other coaches can talk about how Randle might be successful in their system, Randle knows he has been successful in Donovan's system and under Donovan's coaching.

This particularly point 2, makes UF his safest choice.