College Basketball Recruiting: Why Tony Parker Should Avoid the UCLA Bruins

Tony Parker, the 6'9" power forward out of Miller Grove High School, took a visit to UCLA back in October, but he would be wise to avoid the Bruins program.

Parker told the Atlanta-Journal Constitution that he would announce his college plans on April 11, but that plan hasn't come to fruition yet. Duke, Ohio State, Kansas, Memphis, Georgetown and Georgia have all been mentioned as programs that also have been vying for the services of the elite big man.

Here's why the highly coveted recruit should stay away from committing to UCLA.

1. Ben Howland

In nine seasons as head coach of the Bruins basketball team, Ben Howland has had his share of success. He's also had his share of players with off-the-court issues.

In a recent Sports Illustrated article, author George Dohrmann portrays the most recent season of Howland's tenure as a mess. Players disregarded the coach's requests to not go out, drink underage and use drugs before practice.

Howland has the propensity to lose control of the better players on the team if they are a bit immature. That's hardly an environment for a young prospect who is one of the best basketball players in the country.

2. Shabazz Muhammad

There are plenty of young athletes out there who just want to win, but there are also plenty of young athletes who want to be the center of attention in a new environment.

Now that Shabazz Muhammad has committed to UCLA, Parker would be wise to make a name for himself as part of a different program. 

Playing second-fiddle to one of the best players in the entire country may cause Parker to stray from the path and lose sight of his goals. Plus, Howland's inability to keep divas on his past teams focused wouldn't bode well for a player like Parker, who is accustomed to being "the" guy on the floor.

3. The Situation at Ohio State

While this isn't exactly a developing situation, the Buckeyes will lose Jared Sullinger to the NBA next season. 

The 270-pound Parker is similar to Sullinger, both in size and in his ability to create for himself on the block. Parker doesn't need a guard to run the pick-and-roll with, as he has his way with lighter opponents down low.

Talk about being the center of attention in a new environment.

Parker could pick up right where Sullinger left off and become somewhat of a savior for the Buckeye faithful. Not to mention he would have an opportunity to play under one of the best active coaches in Thad Matta.