The new Indiana coach has signed four players who will be in Bloomington this year and also has four commitments.
In addition to the two kids that stuck with their commitments despite the
coaching change, Crean has added long point guard Verdell Jones, junior college
guard Devon Dumes, wing Nick Williams (who previously signed with Crean at
Marquette) and JUCO 7-footer Tijan Jobe.
Crean needed size and added Jobe, who he said can rebound, defend and give him
some length up front. Crean is also hoping to add Emmanuel Negedu, who was
released out of his letter yesterday by Arizona.
Negedu is looking at Tennessee, Indiana, Memphis and Georgia Tech.
After next season, look for Crean to get the program back to where it’s
competitive for a postseason berth.
Crean is also in the driver’s seat for Georgetown transfer Jeremiah Rivers, a combo guard who would be
eligible in 2009-10. He also has commitments from versatile wing Maurice Creek,
Ohio power forward Bobby Capobianco and a pair of in-state kids – point guard
Jordan Hulls and forward Derek Elston.
RANDOM NOTES: Joe Alexander was
raving about the talent of 7-footer Kosta Koufos, who is also working out in Las Vegas. “His skill level isn’t what you’d expect out of a
7-footer,” Alexander said.
Jeff Goodman is a senior college basketball writer for FOXSports.com - This is the only place you'll find continuous daily updates from the world of college basketball, so check back as often as you'd like.
