Recruiting the Future

The semester is over and summer is in our sights. That means its time to talk recruiting. Phog.net looks at what’s ahead for KU in the immediate future, and for 2008.

Normally at this time of year talking 2007 would be a thing of the past. Thanks to a couple of early departures in Lawrence the class of 2007 may not be complete just yet. If Brandon Rush remains in the NBA Draft KU will have an available scholarship. But the question remains – can head coach Bill Self fill it? At this time of year the chances are slim. But remember Self pulled rabbit out of his hat named Brandon Rush a couple of summers ago. But that was before the current NBA age restriction was implemented. It’s no longer likely that a quality high schooler could be available after the June draft.

“You never say never, but from a high school perspective it would seem unlikely,” said Scout.com’s National Recruiting Director, Dave Telep. “Unless there was a big timer trying to get out of a letter of intent or something along those lines, I would think it’s reasonable to think KU is done for the year.”

If there’s one thing KU fans have learned it’s never count out Self in the recruiting trenches. You just never know. Self and his staff will keep their ears and eyes open for transfers and possible defections.

Though we’re not ready to close the door completely on 2007, 2008 will be the focus during the upcoming recruiting period. Self could have a bunch of roster spots to fill and as usual, the Jayhawks will begin their search at the top.

6-9 power forward, Greg Monroe is at the top of almost every program’s wish list and that includes Kansas. Monroe is a smooth athlete who possesses length and looks to have a high ceiling. After losing Julian Wright and possibly losing Darrell Arthur after next season this lefty would certainly help fill the void.

Travis Releford is no stranger to KU fans. The Bishop Miege High School star seems to fit the mold of a Bill Self recruit. But as our own Eric Bossi reported a week ago, the recruiting process has started to wear on the 6-5 junior. Releford has it all – he can pass, shoot, and looks extremely comfortable with the ball in his hands. The big time programs keep knocking on his door but who will he let in?

Willie Warren is a shooting guard from Fort Worth, Texas and at 6-4 possesses an extremely strong body. Warren raved about his visit to Lawrence back in March and was treated to one of the best games of the season as KU took out Texas to win the regular season title. Warren recently announced his recruitment is “wide open” so count on plenty of schools jockeying for position with this highly-touted prospect.

6-8 Romero Osby has had KU’s attention for quite awhile. The Meridian, MS native has certainly made his way up the rankings in the class of 2008. He continues to turn heads at the major programs. He’s strong and seems to be an adept finisher around the rim. Look out below when this kid throws one down!

Just a few of the names to watch for this summer and according to Telep, there could be even more.

“Kansas has a bit of an unusual season coming up on the trail. They have a slew of scholarships so you can expect in the neighborhood of 6 guys. Obviously, Travis Releford is a guy they’d love to lock up early and move on from there,” said Telep about the Shawnee Mission, KS star.

“Greg Monroe, the nation’s top prospect, is on the hitlist. Ditto for maybe a Willie Warren, Romero Osby, Phillip McDonald, Terrence Henry, J’Mison Morgan and basically any big that emerges this spring/summer. Mix in a little Rotnei Clarke, Tyler Zeller and DeAndre Liggins and you’ve got the starting point for the KU hit-list.”

Should be an active summer for the Kansas staff and there should be plenty to talk about.