Big Man Says Big Ten Better For Him

It was a couple of months ago that 6-11, 240-pound center John Kelly from DePaul Catholic High School in Wayne, New Jersey, committed to Penn State. Since his commitment, RivalsHoops.com has watched Kelly play five times.

Kelly had a solid tournament at the Rumble in the Bronx two weeks ago. This past weekend he played at the Metro Classic on the campus of Seton Hall.

Kelly also played a pivotal role in the New Jersey Roadrunners' run to the finals of the CYP Tournament by attacking the glass and establishing himself as a defensive presence. In the Roadrunners' opening round

win Kelly matched up with Holy Cross-bound BF Kevin Hyland from Stepinac High School in White Plains, NY, and chipped in 13 points while making a substantial impact at the defensive end with his shot blocking.

In the finals of the tourney against Riverside Church, Kelly turned in an inspired effort against undersized but tough post player Willie Irick from Teaneck High School, crashing the boards and making his presence felt defensively.

Kelly told us that the difference in styles between the Big Ten and Big East was the reason why he decided to head to Penn State. "The Big Ten focuses more on getting the ball to the center and allows the center to be more involved in the offense," Kelly told us. "The pace of the Big East is faster and they don't get the big people involved like the Big Ten."

Kelly had heard early on from Seton Hall, Syracuse, Villanova, Penn State, Providence, and Boston University.

Kelly averaged 17 points, 14 rebounds, 6.5 blocks, and 4 assists at DePaul Catholic this past season.

John carries a 3.0 GPA. He has already qualified academically. "Penn State is a great school academically too," Kelly said. "I think I can go in and help them out right away. The coaches are great there too. It's going to be a great place to go to school."