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2008- April 10th- Verdell Jones Nearing Decision |
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By: Daniel Poneman and Mid-State Editor Cavan Walsh
2008- April 10th
 Champaign Central guard Verdell Jones remains one of the top uncommitted seniors guards in the country and his recruitment may come to a close very soon. Jones’ recruiting picture will materialize within the next few weeks amidst visits and a contact period with coaches.
This 6-4 guard clearly has a high ceiling with his long and lanky mold, and a good feel for the game. A number of high level programs have given Jones looks at some point in time, and yet three new schools have contacted him. “Indiana, Arizona, and Georgetown recently got involved,” said Jones. “Georgetown needs a point guard, and Arizona and Indiana both just need a guard. Both Indiana and Georgetown have offered, Arizona has not,” Jones added.
Former Marquette Coach Tom Crean was recently hired at Indiana, and a relationship is forging between Jones and the new Hoosier coach. “I talked with Crean a little bit when he was at Marquette, but mostly to Coach Buckley the head assistant,” Jones stated. “He (Crean) called when he got the Indiana job and just said they want me to be a Hoosier and are excited about me coming on a visit Friday.”
Indiana in the midst of an NCAA rules violation from their former coach Kelvin Sampson, and a potential penalty could include a temporary post season ban. “Yeah that worries me a little…an athlete chooses a school for the possibility to play in the tourney and have a chance for a national championship.”
With these new schools getting involved, is Jones scratching off the old schools on his list? Hardly. “Minnesota and Kentucky are at the top of my list. They have been there the whole time and have shown me the most interest. I have to take my other visits still and sort all my options.”
Jone went on to say that playing time, style of play, conference, and coach will all play a role in his decision. "Ill probably decide in about two weeks,” he added.
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