5-Star Recruit Focuses On Studies

CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA -- Charlie Villanueva certainly knows he has a chance to play on the highest level in the sport of basketball. But he is making sure that he keeps all of his options open regarding his college situation too.

Villanueva, a talented 6-9 forward from Blair Academy in New Jersey, missed the first night of competition for the Long Island Panthers at the Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions event. He made it in for Saturday morning's battle with the DC Assault. The Panthers lost a tough game against the Assault despite a great effort by Villanueva in the second half.

"I wasn't there last night because I had to take some tests," Villanueva said. "I had to do the same thing the last tournament. I want to make sure I keep my grades up. I have done pretty good this year."

Villanueva told us he has two more finals this week and then he can get a breather. "I have to be back Sunday night to study some more," Villanueva said. "I want to make it easier for my last year."

Villanueva said he will likely focus more on his recruiting process as the summer goes on. His list is pretty much set -- Hofstra, Tennessee, St. John's, Villanova, Syracuse, Seton Hall, Illinois, Maryland, and Kentucky. "My list hasn't changed in a while," Villanueva said. "There are some schools I might want to visit before I decide. But I haven't come to that part yet."

Villanueva added: "I don't have a leader right now. I do like something about each school I have on my list. They all have great programs and coaches."