Elite PF Jarell Martin Set to Make Decision Thursday Afternoon

Jarell Martin, a 6'9" power forward from Baton Rouge, LA, will announce his college decision Thursday at 1:30 p.m, according to Dave Telep of ESPN.com. Martin will pick between LSU, Texas A&M, St. Johns, Oklahoma State and Alabama at Madison Preparatory Academy.  

Martin was expected to make a spring decision.

The 5-star prospect is considered the fifth-best power forward by Scout.com and the 12th-best player in the 2013 class by Rivals.com.

Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress.com said of Martin, "He is a big man with solid size, a great frame and a pretty versatile skill-level. Plays with good energy. A bit rough around the edges, but has plenty to work with."

Last year, Martin averaged 19.4 points, 12.9 rebounds and three blocks a game as a junior.

"I want someone who is dedicated and works hard," Martin told Garrett Tucker of Future150.com of his preferences for a head coach and coaching staff. "As far as the school and team, how many guys play my position, how the team plays the game, TV time, that will all go into my decision."

St. John's has been recruiting Martin hard over the past couple of months and is thought by many to be his favorite. Head coach Steve Lavin has yet to pick up a commit for the 2013 class; Martin would be a great start and could give them momentum in adding other top prospects.

LSU is geographically the closest of the schools on his list. The Tigers have four talented commits already in the 2013 class, including two 4-star forwards: Jordan Mickey and Tim Quarterman.

Martin really likes the Texas A&M coaches. The Aggies have two commits for the 2013 class with 4-star power forward Derrick Griffin and small forward Davonte Fitzgerald.

Oklahoma State has three commits for the 2013 class. Picking up an elite player like Martin could really propel OSU's program.

Alabama head coach Anthony Grant did a great job on the recruiting trail over the summer. The Crimson Tide already has two quality commits in 4-star center Jimmie Taylor and Shannon Hale.

The college Martin commits to Thursday will get a player that can make an immediate impact.