By NICK MEDLINE
Special to ZAGSBLOG
RIVERSIDE, Ill.— The rankings make sense.
Glynn Watson can distribute, score, defend and create — part of what made him a Top-10 point guard in the Class of 2015.
Unlike some other elite prospects, though, Watson’s commitment could alter the future of several programs.
The 5-foot-11 Watson out of Westchester, IL (St. Joseph) is ranked No. 67 in the Class of 2015 by Rivals. He said that Purdue, Nebraska and Creighton are his three most intense suitors. All of them could use a program-defining upgrade.
After a poor 2013-14 season, coach Matt Painter needs to reestablish Purdue as a force in the Big Ten. He added point guard P.J. Thompson this offseason, but continued to recruit Watson — one of their longtime priorities.
“They were my first offer so that was big,” Watson said. “They still want me. I’m going back down for an unofficial visit and I’ve got a good feel with them.”
Purdue was the first to recognize Watson. While in-state schools looked elsewhere, Painter quickly offered the rising prospect.
But everything from last summer forward built Watson’s national profile. His quickness and natural feel, reminiscent of former Texas standout and NBA guard T.J. Ford, attracted new interest.
Nebraska contacted Watson throughout the recruiting process, making a strategic offer in late April. After an improbable run to the 2014 NCAA Tournament, coach Tim Miles can legitimize the program by landing an elite recruit.
“They came last year to the Proviso West [Illinois] tournament and watched me play,” Watson said. “They were always talking to me.”
Creighton tends to give out more offers than most schools. It’s for good reason: Greg McDermott lost his son Doug and a talented senior core to graduation, leaving several open spots.
Watson told Brian Snow of Scout.com that he likes how McDermott coaches. He could be an ideal point guard fit for a team fond of jacking threes.
Watson said he wants to make a college decision before his senior season begins. That gives him an opportunity to visit all of the three schools—even the familiar Purdue.
Watson is one of 20 prospects invited to the Stephen Curry Next Level Camp from June 31-July 2. Shortly after the camp, he plans to visit Creighton and Nebraska on one trip.
“I want to get a good feel for the coaching staff, the people and the players down there,” he said.
With three schools’ futures linked to one player, Glynn Watson’s commitment might be among the most pivotal decisions of the 2015 class.
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