It is that prime time of the summer when AAU tournaments are in full swing. And also when every single D-I basketball coach stocks up on their frequent flyer miles. Since the 2007 classes are all signed, sealed, and delivered; I guess it is time to start concentrating on the 2008 and beyond recruiting classes.
Everyone knows that Greg Monroe is the number one 2008 prospect in the nation, and that Duke has been on him since before he was on the radar. According to every journalist who covers college and high school basketball, Monroe continues to dominate in every tournament he plays in. I feel it is a four-horse race with Duke, LSU, Kansas, and Louisville being the favorites right now. Many have him leaning toward LSU, a good reason being he is from that state. However, Monroe has been pretty quiet about who are his favorites. He has announced that he will be visiting schools come August. I know Duke will continue to go after him hard. And even though he looks like a one and done, I would love to see him in the “Royal Duke Blueâ€.
The other target that Duke has been after in the 2008 class is Elliot Williams. I have seen a few videos of him, and really like what he brings to the table. Even though he is listed as SG, I think he would make a great point guard. He recently announced his final four schools. Duke, Memphis, Tennessee, and Virginia will be the schools vying for Williams services. I think right now we have a better shot at Williams then Monroe. Ideally we get both, but I hope for one rather than none.
As recently as a week ago, Duke offered a scholarship to another 2008 prospect. Olek Czyz is a 6’7†235ibs power forward from Reno Nevada. He is a native of Poland and has a long list of schools after him. Besides Duke, the likes of Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, and many more have offered him scholarships. It will be interesting to see if it is too little to late for Duke regarding this kid.
It is never too early to talk about the 2009 class. And Duke seems to be very busy regarding a couple players.
Duke is getting in early for C John Riek from MA, and Reeves Nelson from CA. Nelson has been a long target of Duke’s, but was recently offered a scholarship just a short while ago. Nelson is a west coast guy, so fighting against UCLA will be tough. However, are old friends UNC offered him as well. This looks like it could be a crazy recruiting battle. As far as Riek, he is one of the top prospects in the 2009 class. And his list of schools proves it. Duke, Georgetown, Florida, and UConn have all offered him scholarships. Duke looks like they are going to try to make 2009 another great recruiting year. However, they have plenty of competition.
It is only July, but November is going to be upon us before you know it. Hopefully by that time Nelson and Zoubek will be ready to go along with the rest of the Blue Devils. I am really starting to get excited about this season.
Continue checking Dukereport.com to see what is going on with Duke and its recruiting.
