SIU Recruiting: 2007 vs 2008

Southern Illinois’ 2007 class was one of the best in the school’s history. With two impact mid major (or possible high major players) and two solid mid major recruits, they pulled in a very solid group of recruits.

Justin Bocot 6’3” 170 lbs SG – Likely the most talented recruit at SIU in years. He’s a natural born scorer with a knack for putting the ball in the basket. His scoring ability is something rarely seen in a player at the mid major level. He is an offensively skilled player and a solid athlete who will add strength during his first season. Because he didn’t qualify, his first season at SIU will be a greyshirt year, in which he is not allowed to play, travel, practice, or do anything related with the basketball team. However, his second collegiate year, look for him to be an immediate impact.

Carlton Fay 6’7” 235 lbs PF – A strong post player who his very skilled. Fay has a great body. He handles it well for his size and can also shoot it. Also, he’s a good rebounder. His footwork is very solid around the basket. He will need to become faster but his skills and size are undeniable. He will be one of the few freshman under CLo (Chris Lowery) to play as a true freshman. In addition, he also has a chance to enter the starting lineup though if he doesn’t he will still be a major contributor.

Nick Evans 6’10” 240 lbs C – A strong post player who has learned to score on the interior. He rebounds well and runs the floor well for his size. He’s still working on his finishing but has shown potential. Will likely be a redshirt this season.

Brandon Woods 6’3” 170 lbs SG – A typical CLo recruit. Woods will be a solid four year contributor for the Salukis. He’s a hard worker that is very good defensively. He is also capable of knocking down shots and has the ability to play both guard slots.

The only class in the last few years challenging the 2007 class is the up and coming 2008 class. Though Torres Roundtree decommited, their class is still very solid.

Anthony Booker 6’8” 240 lbs PF – A strong and athletic forward that rebounds and blocks shots. He scores well around the basket and is learning to use his size and athleticism to his advantage. Booker is starting to show that he has the ability of a high 4-star prospect. If the Salukis can keep him, it will be their highest recruit in years (and maybe in their history).

Kevin Dillard 5’11” 160 lbs PG – He’s the reason to the success of Mike Dunigan (Oregon), Matt Humphrey (Oregon), and Josh Crittle (high major prospect). He’s a leader and a playmaker that does what it takes to win. A true point guard that makes things happen. As a high schooler he has yet to get the recognition he deserves. I honestly believe he has the skill, work ethic, and mindset to be a four year starter for the Salukis.

Chris Parrish 6’3” 195 lbs SG/SF – A strong swingman that can score inside and out. Parrish has good strength and finishes well. His midrange game is one of the best assets of his game along with his defense and, especially, his rebounding ability from the wing. He is improving his shooting ability and ball handling skills and will be a solid role player in SIU’s system.

The last scholarship will likely go to 6’3” wing Torres Roundtree (considering USC, St. Louis, and Illinois State, among others as well), 6’4” sharp shooter Kyle Kuric (considering Bradley, Butler, Evansville, Indiana State, and others), or 6’6” athletic wing Daimion Garrett. The final recruit will determine the strength of this class.