Stephen Zimmerman to UNLV: Rebels Land 5-Star Center Prospect

Stephen Zimmerman, one of the most coveted recruits in the country, has chosen to play college basketball at UNLV. The decision provides a major boost to the Rebels' frontcourt.

Jeff Borzello of ESPN reported the decision was confirmed from Zimmerman's stepmother, and Zimmerman himself also tweeted his choice:

Credit: 247Sports

Zimmerman is a 5-star prospect who ranks inside the top 10 nationally for the class of 2015, based on 247Sports' composite rankings. He was recruited by many of the top programs in the country before making his decision.

The Bishop Gorman High School (Nevada) star possesses a highly intriguing skill set. Like most of the top big men in the class, he brings an exciting combination of size and athleticism to the table.

More impressive is the fact he's looked just as comfortable stepping outside the arc for a deep jumper as he does attacking the rim. He's even shown the ability to run the floor with advanced ball-handling skills for a player of his height.

Ben Roberts of the Lexington Herald-Leader spoke with Zimmerman about the impact going up against top teams has had on his development.

"I don't think it can get any better," Zimmerman said. "Playing with this team—my family—and against teams like Simeon and Montverde and Findlay Prep, that's already getting me ready for the next level."

Another interesting facet of his recruitment surrounds the choice to avoid signing a letter of intent when initially picking a school. Taylor Bern of the Las Vegas Sun reported he would sign a scholarship agreement, a less restrictive option that allows room for him to change his mind.

Of course, there was still no shortage of interest in him because of his incredible upside. He can score from anywhere, protects the rim and is still very much on the ascent.

Jamie Shaw of Phenom Hoop Report also raved about his distribution ability:

The only serious concern about Zimmerman is his strength. He's listed at 6'11'' and 214 pounds. In order to thrive at the next level, especially if he maintains his current track toward the NBA, bulking up will be absolutely essential.

Otherwise, the signs are overwhelmingly positive. He sports all of the raw tools a coaching staff looks for when it scours the country looking for the next wave of stars. It all starts with the terrific versatility on the offensive end.

A need for polish is evident, and as previously mentioned, he'll need to work with the strength and conditioning team to add some power without sacrificing his athleticism.

The bottom line for Zimmerman, however, is that his potential is sky high.

Recruit star ratings and rankings via 247Sports, unless otherwise noted.