Arkansas Big Man: One to Watch

2005 center prospect John Gourley has not been able to log many minutes this spring for the Arkansas Wings. He was out three weeks in April with a shoulder injury and then missed the state tournament with a sprained ankle. Despite the rough start to the spring, Gourley, 6-foot-11, 250-pounds, out of Subiaco Academy in Paris, Arkansas, is receiving interest from a Big Ten school and a Big 12 school.

“Illinois is really involved with John, and Oklahoma State is looking at him,” said Arkansas Wings head coach Mike Charles. “And of course Arkansas State likes him.”

Gourley has the potential to be a very good player. He is very skilled but lacks the quickness, explosiveness, and experience to be a dominant player inside.

“John has great hands, is a great passer, and can shoot the ball,” said Coach Charles. “He has a chance to be a nice player, even a chance to be a pro.”

“He just lacks the lower body strength, quickness, and seasoning to be a dominant player down low, but he is pretty good in the high post.”

Gourley is now healthy and will travel with the Wings to New Orleans for the Memorial Day Classic.