Big Ten, Pac-10 Like CA Big Forward
Chris Henry, a developing 6-foot-9, 240 pound center/power forward from Mater
Dei High School in Santa Ana, Calif., is a legitimate big man. He's also a
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good student, which makes him attractive to many colleges. Henry has gathered
some high-major interest after a solid summer and currently has a short list of
favorites.
According to Mater Dei head coach Gary McKnight, Northwestern and Washington
State are Henry's top two schools. Both have offered. Others that have been
in the mix include Texas Tech, Arizona State, San Diego State, as well as most
of the schools in the Big West and West Coast conferences. One thing that has
made Henry particularly attractive this summer has been his ability to shed
some extra pounds off his frame.
"He lost about 20 pounds this summer," said McKnight. "He dropped from 260
pounds to 240. He's running the floor and moving a lot better. He's gotten a
lot more athletic, and people are paying attention."
With the added athleticism, McKnight was able to be even more effective this
summer banging, defending, and scoring with his strength and size. McKnight
broke down the positive qualities of his big man.
"He's powerful inside, but he's also got a nice touch from 15," said McKnight.
"He's also got good hands, which is a little unusual for someone of his size."
In addition to keeping the weight off, Henry will need to continue developing
his offensive game for the collegiate level.
"He just needs to work on his overall game," said McKnight. "Learning the
instincts of the game."
Henry played with the Southern Cal All-Stars this summer in various events, and
also participated in Nike All-American Camp in Indianapolis. Location is not a
factor with Henry, who will sign during the fall signing period.
Jed Tai is a senior writer with Hoopville.com