2006 Hawes Hearing from Western Schools

2006 big man Spencer Hawes is preparing to play in the Nike Memorial Day Classic with his Friends of Hoop team. Hawes, 6-foot-10, 215-pounds first caught the attention of RivalsHoops.com with his skilled play in the Boo Williams Invitational. The center from Seattle (Wash.) Prep listed five schools that are recruiting him.

"I'm really wide open as of now,” said Hawes. “I haven't narrowed anything down yet."

Washington, Gonzaga, UCLA, Utah, and San Diego State are showing me the most interest."

As important as basketball is to Hawes, he stressed the importance of academics in his decision making.

"Academics will play a large role when it comes time for me to make my decision,” he said. “I put a lot of emphasis on my academics. I just want to go to a program that feels right for me, a program that is going in the right direction."

Hawes, who is still growing, is a nimble, skilled big man who can finish in the post with either hand. His most urgent need is to develop strength and explosiveness.

“I’m working on getting quicker and stronger,” he said. “I think it will help me fine tune my moves and help me on both ends of the floor. I’m trying to improve my shot, so I can be consistent when I’m asked to knock down the open jumper. I’m also working out on my legs to help me get stronger and to help prevent injuries."

"I think my footwork is my greatest strength and my ability to go either way when I get the ball in the post."