The attention remains on the so-called national elite prospects, but many programs continue to add role players, or prospects with potential that could impact next year’s college basketball rosters. Some signings or commitments of note that have dropped over the last few days include:
- Baylor made a late move on forward Taurean Waller-Prince, an in-state power forward. Waller-Prince initially signed with Long Island, but was released from his letter of intent. Waller-Prince is the fifth member of the Bears class and was considered a top-10 prospect in the Lone Star state.
- Former Baylor commit Quevyn Winters is now set for Duquesne. He originally committed to the Bears several years ago, but took time in prep school to develop his game. He could be a nice pickup for the Duquesne as they rebuild with a new coaching staff.
- Marshall snagged former Louisville-commit Ryan Taylor, a prep school wing forward. Playing against strong competition, Taylor could be ready to see time at small forward next season for the Thundering Herd.
- Both Oregon State and Michigan signed wing men that may be better than advertised. Versatile wing Victor Robbins signed with the Beavers, while former Ohio-bound wing Caris LeVert, who had one of the best seasons in talent rich Ohio, signed with Michigan.
- While Golden Bears fans will have to give him some time, Denmark native Sami Eleraky is an intriguing 7-footer. He’s played on his country’s national team, and reportedly shown some flashes in international competition.
- Drake may have stolen one in strong forward Daddy Ugbede. The California high school prospect is known for his frame and power, which could make him an important addition for Drake as he could be a step ahead.
- He can’t sign for another year, but Mississippi State landed an important 2013 pledge from Imara Ready Jr. The slight point guard has reportedly played well on the spring circuit for the Arkansas Hawks, and is a former Nebraska commit. He plays for the father of a new Mississippi State assistant coach at his high school in Arkansas.
- Fordham was able to land 6-9 forward Ryan Rhoomes, who signed with TCU last year but did not gain initial eligibility. He starred in the New York City high school ranks before heading to prep school, and if he isn’t too rusty, he can help the Rams rebuild.
- North Texas has two interesting re-treads in the fray. Former Mississippi State signee PJ Hardwick, a point guard, and former Nebraska signee Keith Coleman, a highly rated JUCO center, are a solid start to new coach Tony Benford’s efforts on the recruiting trail. Coleman in particular could be a key player.
Kellon Hassenstab runs Hoopniks.com. Follow him on Twitter @hoopniks.