Ohio State Buckeyes Land Four Top Hoop Recruits for 2011 Season

With the 2010 season just underway for the Ohio State Buckeyes, head coach Thad Matta paused to look ahead to the 2011 season last week by signing four high school seniors to a letter of intent.  6'2" point guard Shannon Scott, 6'7" guard/forward Sam Thompson and 6'9" forward Trey McDonald all signed a national letter of intent on the first day of the early signing period.  Another top player, LaQuinton Ross, gave Ohio State pause after giving his oral earlier this year and not signing with the others, but signed this morning after making his official visit.

Scott, Ross and Thompson are all consensus top 60 players.  McDonald isn't ranked, but is considered a player with a lot of upside, a huge wingspan, and the ability to play both center and forward.  Think Dallas Lauderdale.

Scott is a prototypical point guard.  He's fast, has a big basketball IQ and has a big wingspan to help defend.  His favorite move is to penetrate and kick the ball back out, but he can also stop and pop from about ten feet and in.  He needs to gain strength, and he can play "fast," but many think that he'll ultimately be a top fifteen player when it's all said and done.  His dad, Charlie, played the wing for North Carolina from 67-70.

Thompson is extremely versatile, and can play all three perimeter spots, including the point.  He has fantastic ball-handling skills for a big man, has a smooth and fluid jump shot, is solid off the pass or dribble, and can run the floor well.  His biggest asset may be his ability to defend.  He does need to work on strength and his three-point shot, but this should be a problem rectified during his senior season.  The big concern is his motor.  He's been known to not give 100% all the time, but Matta should be able to refocus his energy.

Ross brings a similar skill-set to Thompson, but is slightly more polished.  The major difference is that Ross can completely take over games with his multi-skill set.  He has a sweet three-point shot, but also plays well with his back to the basket.  He can also turn into a highlight reel on the fast break.  This kid has loads of talent.  Like Thompson, he can take "breaks" on the court, but Matta's never had a problem motivating his players.

McDonald is a long player, who plays best with his back to the basket.  His primary shot is a jump hook, and over the past year, he's perfected this shot with both hands.  He can also range out to about 15 feet with his pull up jumper.  He does move the floor extremely well.  His biggest strength is his rebounding, and seems to have magnets in his hands. He can also defend well, and is a good shot blocker.  He can play a bit robotic, and can get pushed around underneath, but he could be the sleeper of the bunch.

The bow on this draft class may come Wednesday, when 6'10" Amir Williams signs his letter of intent.  Ohio State is believed to be in the lead, with Florida a close second.  Williams made his official visit this weekend as well, and if he liked what he saw, likely has Ohio State in his cross-hairs.  Many felt that McDonald's signing was an indicator that Williams would be heading elsewhere, but that's just the opposite.  Reports are that Williams will sign, it's just a matter of time.  It is interesting that he'll make his decision on Wednesday, the day AFTER Ohio State plays Florida...in Gainesville.

Either way, Matta continues to be one of the top recruiters in the nation.  With 2010 looking bright, things will only get better in 2011.