Nice to have a top-100 prospect in your own backyard. Is Scottie Wilbekin's dad still the coach there?
Then there is Joel Embid from the Rock who considered playing for Florida but ultimately picked Kansas (in ?2013). A small Florida high school was part of Joel Embiid's NBA MVP journey Joel Embiid’s high school coach kicked him out of first practice
Hopefully this time, Florida will have better luck in landing a top Gainesville basketball product like Ryan Jones.
I was not aware that Embiid ever seriously considered Florida. He was only at The Rock for one year and had no other ties to UF.
Looks like he has a good feel for the game, understands where he needs to be, can hit the 3...but his lack of athleticism and explosiveness might not translate well at this level...guess we'll wait and see
i agree. i believe he was once considered a top-15 overall / 5 star in his class a year or two ago. seems like the evaluators have cooled on his game, but he would definitely be a welcomed addition.
I definitely think his teammate, Sammie Yeanay, has more upside. Super athletic and physical with a developing handle and shot. But Jones could be a very solid stretch four, or even small ball five in short stints. Not sure about his ability to defend the three, but could play there offensively, too.
Has The Rock evolved into one of these private high school basketball factories that recruits players nationally and plays outside the FHSAA?
Can any of the NIL groups offer players a deal if they attend The Rock with the "understanding" of signing with Florida at a later date? I'm wondering what the system will even allow or if it could be under deferred payments or some loophole. If so I could see The Rock as Florida's future development ground or feeder school for basketball. I understand lots of money flows thru IMG to get players there and back for the right plan, whether it be before they are famous or if success comes later. I would think The Rock would only be for a very select few on the roster. Besides the kids of the pastoral staff gotta get playing time too.
