By JEREMY WOO
Special to ZAGSBLOG
A pair of talented 2014 prospects came off the board Wednesday, as highly rated guard JaQuan Lyle pledged his services to Rick Pitino and defending national champion Louisville while rising forward Malek Harris announced he will play for Buzz Williams at Marquette.
Lyle, a skilled 6-foot-5 point guard from Bosse High School in Evansville, Ind., was a major target for schools including Illinois, Indiana and Ohio State. He joins two well-regarded prospects—guard Quentin Snider and wing Shaqquan Aaron—as part of another strong recruiting class for the Cardinals. His range of skills and above-average size at his position gives Louisville a big-time piece to work with.
With Lyle’s commitment comes speculation that highly-touted AAU teammate Trey Lyles, an elite 6-10 forward could follow him to Louisville, as the two have discussed playing together at the next level. Their Spiece Indy Heat teammate Trevon Bluiett also holds an offer from Pitino.
Harris, a 6-foot-7 forward from Sandburg High School in the Chicago suburbs, chose Marquette while visiting campus today. The Illinois Wolves AAU product is the first 2014 prospect to commit to the Golden Eagles, and fits their mold as a tough, versatile forward.
Comfortable on the perimeter and able to bang inside, Harris plays with a notoriously high motor. The Golden Eagles remain in the mix for several more top 2014 kids including centers Myles Turner and Goodluck Okonoboh, forward Paul White and guard Ahmed Hill.
Iowa had been notably aggressive in their pursuit of Harris, whose stock rose throughout the spring. He recently picked up offers from Northwestern and Purdue. Kansas State, Oregon State and DePaul were also involved, among others.
