Jalen James commits to Illini
Strangely, Jalen James was the player that Klee talked about in his Illinois basketball chat today
URBANA — Jalen James, a 6-foot-3 point guard from Chicago Hope, gave an oral commitment to Illinois on Wednesday. James committed after being offered a scholarship following the Illini one-day team camp. The talented point guard is the first prospect from the Class of 2013 to commit to Illinois.
James said one main draw to Illinois was a core of new freshmen who all hail from the Chicago area.
“They got players from Chicago: Mycheal Henry, Nnanna (Egwu), Tracy (Abrams), Mike Shaw. I played with them a couple times. They’re from the city. The connection is real important,” James said.
James also cited the close distance to home and a strong relationship with UI coach Bruce Weber and assistant coach Jerrance Howard as reasons for his commitment.
“He’s explosive; he’s a gifted passer. He’s a point guard,” said Mike Mullins, head coach of the Illinois Wolves club team that James plays for. “He’s not a guy you have to make into a point guard. That’s what he is. And he’s a willing defender. A lot of guys don’t want to defend. He enjoys it.”
James made an unofficial visit to the Illinois campus last Thursday. He was scheduled to visit Michigan State Thursday but planned to cancel the visit. Prior to Wednesday, he had scholarship offers from Baylor and Cleveland State, though his list was expected to grow after the July evaluation period.
James met with the Illini coaches after the conclusion of the team camp and said Weber asked he and his family, “Do you want to come to Illinois?”
Less than an hour later, after talking it over with his family, James informed Weber of his commitment.
“It’s done. I’m committed to Illinois,” James said.
With idiots like Daisyj, happyhacker and rsaavedra expressing their negativity its no wonder we can't get top recruits here. My great grandpappy always said if you don't have anything positive to say don't say anything....
Weber has done very well with what he's been able to recruit. Now that he's getting better athletes his stock will rise.
Go Illini!!
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