Big 12 offer for 2006 Kirk

Three-star 2006 prospect Kyle Kirk was an eye catching prospect at this summer's Nike Hoop Jamboree. Blessed with strong, live body and the ability to jump over the defense and knock down shots, the 6-foot-5, 218-pound small forward displayed the promise of a high-major recruit. As it turns out, Kirk, who plays for Kickapoo High School in Springfield, Mo., has a Big 12 offer and a couple other offers at this point.

"Right now I'm wid open," said Kirk. "I am getting the most interest from Purdue, Iowa State, Florida State, St. Louis and Southwest Missouri State.

"Iowa State has offered and Southwest Missouri State has also. St. Louis offered me as a freshman. All three of the schools that have offered me have been to see me play this year."

On the season, Kirk is averaging 15 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists per game for his 11-1 team.

Kirk has the ability to attack the rim, where he is an explosive leaper off two feet. He also has a difficult to guard midrange game with his leaping ability and high release. As he moves away from the basket, however, he lacks consistency and has a flat trajectory because of his shooting mechanics.

Strong with the ball when slashing to the basket to score, Kirk does need to improve his all around dribbling and passing skills.

Being more of a straight ahead athlete, Kirk also needs to improve his lateral quickness on the defensive end.

Kirk noted that he is focused on improving both his jump shot and his quickness.

When it comes to choosing a school, the campus environment and an opportunity for early playing time are the top two criteria.

"I'll start taking visits some time after the season," he said. "I just want to got to a campus and look around and see how it is. I'd like to go somewhere and play early if at all possible."

Carrying a 2.7 GPA, Kirk will take the ACT for the first time in February.