Benson Elevates Stock

Justin Benson, a burly yet skilled 6-6, 240 pound power forward from Gulf Shores Academy in Houston, Tex., was very impressive to RivalsHoops.com this summer. Benson recently concluded his play at the National AAU tournament but he was extremely solid at the Super Showcase. He showed he is one of the few big men in the class of 2003 that can step out and shoot the basketball proficiently.

"I am working on all parts of my game," Benson said. "Hopefully enough people saw my game and will be interested."

Benson, who played with the Houston Hoops also at the Nike Peach Jam Tournament, averaged 13.8 points and 5.8 rebounds in five pool games.

The one thing that sets Benson apart from other big men is his ability to shoot both around the basket and facing the basket. He's not afraid to venture out to three point land, yet he also uses his wide body effectively to rebound inside the paint. The one thing he isn't is very athletic, but the bottom line is that he produces throughout the course of a game.

Benson told us he is interested in St. Mary's (CA), Texas Southern, UTEP and Houston, schools who offered. Other schools looking include Baylor, Providence, North Carolina, Kent State, Colorado State, Tulane, New Mexico State, McNeese State, Charleston Southern and Texas A&M Corpus Christi.

The Heels though only have a few offers available over the next couple of years and are likely to use them for other purposes. But UNC did scout Benson pretty hard at the Super Showcase.

Benson averaged 31 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks per game this past season at Gulf Shores Academy. Benson said he carries a 2.9 GPA in the classroom and will take the SAT for the first time in October.