It wasn’t planned, but LaQuinton Ross verbally committed to Ohio State on Monday.
“Yes,” Ross, who averaged 18 points and 10 rebounds last season at Burlington (N.J.) Life Center, said by phone.
The 6-foot-8 Ross, a Murrah, Miss., native who last year transferred to Life Center, chose Ohio State over West Virginia and Baylor. He is the No. 14 small forward in the Class of 2011.
“He talked to Thad [Matta] and decided to commit. It was not planned,” said Life Center coach Wilson Arroyo. “He told me it just felt like it was the right decision. He liked the way Thad will use him on offense, like a guard.
“He will bring versatility on offense because he can shoot the long ball, mid-range jumper or post up. Defensively he has the ability to guard the big guards, small forwards in the post. He will bring instant offense and Thad Matta knows how to utilize wing players.”
DURAND JOHNSON TO PITT
Durand Johnson, a 6-7 wing from Baltimore who will play at Brewster (N.H.) Academy, chose to play at Pittsburgh.
“It was just a great all-around fit,” he said by text.
Johnson also considered Louisville, Marquette, St. John’s and Cincinnati.
“I’m going to bring scoring to the table,” he said. “I’m an all-around player.”
Johnson joins 6-1 guard John Johnson of Burlington (N.J.) Life Center Academy and 6-7 forward Jaylen Bond of Plymouth-Whitemarsh in Pitt’s 2011 recruiting haul.
Follow Adam Zagoria on Twitter
