ACC is the place for Loucks

Point guards are falling off the board faster than any other position in the class of 2008. The latest floor general to commit is four-star prospect Luke Loucks. He is headed to the ACC.

The 6-foot-4 point guard from Clearwater (Fla.) High School committed to Florida State. Loucks, the No. 8 point guard in the nation, is a major score for the Seminoles and he sees nothing but positives in Tallahassee.

"They have done a really good job recruiting me. Leonard Hamilton has always been a key factor. I think he's a great coach and I know they have something special going on over there," Loucks said. "It's a great opportunity not only in your home state but to play for a rising program in the ACC. We prayed about it a lot and talked about it a lot as a family and all of the arrows were pointing to FSU."

Loucks said he also considered Georgia Tech, South Florida and St. Joseph's. Florida State is only three and a half hours from his Clearwater home. Loucks said his father attended the ACC school and he has had family that has attended the school as well. The comfortably with the school played a part with his decision.

"I really felt comfortable with their staff and I got to know their players," Loucks said. "I felt really comfortable with them. They've always brought in great recruiting classes and I know most of the guys that will be going there next year. I know my class will be just as good. I'm really looking forward to getting an opportunity to get to know those guys."

Loucks, the No. 72 overall player in the class of 2008, is the first player to commit to Florida State this year. He said Andy Enfield was his primary recruiter for the Seminoles. Loucks said each of the coach's experience at the NBA level was a major plus.

"(Enfield) has helped develop a lot of players, Al Thornton being the latest guy. You can see what he's done. I've seen him work out kids. It's amazing. All of the coaches are good skill development. All of them want to help you grow as a player and a person. That was a big point."

The versatile guard can play both guard positions and because of his versatility and Florida State's flexibility in the backcourt, Loucks projects to play early and often.

"The pick and rolls are going to be great with all of the athletes that they have there," Loucks said. "That's something that they really preached. They really need a guy like me that can distribute the ball.

"I just can't wait to get up there."