Rice big man Shagari Alleyne made it official tonight at a press conference in New York City -- he's committed to Rutgers. "Shagari is very happy with his choice," Alleyne's mom told us tonight. "We're happy we will have a chance to watch him play in college."

This also means that Rutgers has a player who can be a major impact recruit on the college level. Alleyne was a dominating force in the NYC Catholic league playoffs last Spring as he led Rice to a title win. Alleyne was unstoppable in the paint with his short hooks and jumpers.

However, during the summer, Alleyne didn't have the same punch to his offensive game. But RivalsHoops.com has seen Alleyne play several times to understand that Shagari can be a big time college basketball player. He has the size at 7-3 and has vastly improved his fundamentals and skills under coach Maurice Hicks the last three seasons.

Alleyne committed to Rutgers over Kentucky and Pepperdine.

At one point during his recruiting process, it looked like Louisville was the school to beat (during the summer). But Alleyne has taken other trips and appears now to be leaning to Rutgers, according to some New York City sources.