Big Ten programs ramp up recruitment of Carton
MEQUON, Wis. – The July recruiting period is a three-week stretch that allows unheralded prospects to prove just how good they really are. During his time at the NY2LA Summer Jam, D.J. Carton more than showed how valuable he is, and now a handful of Big Ten programs have started to pursue.
A 6-foot-2 combo guard with an explosive first step, scoring prowess that can take over a game and the ability to defend multiple spots, Carton has seen his stock soar within recent weeks.
“Schools that are really involved are just some Big Ten schools right now like Wisconsin, Iowa, Marquette, UNI, Minnesota, Creighton and Nebraska are just beginning to talk to me right now,” he said. “Wisconsin, Marquette, Nebraska, UNI, North Dakota and IUPUI have offered me.”
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IN HIS OWN WORDS
Carton elaborated on a few of those involved.
Wisconsin: “They are just telling me that I have the talent that is out of this gym. They think my leadership skills are something that you cannot teach. They really like the way that I play the point and how I get people involved, along with my characteristics off the court.”
Marquette: “I really like Marquette. I really like the coaching staff down there with Coach (Brett) Nelson and Coach Wojo (Steve Wojciechowski), people like that. They are really good coaches with experience. They know the game really well and could really mentor me well.”
Iowa: “It is the closest school to me that is high-major. I have been talking to Iowa quite a bit, at least four or five times a week. They have been checking in on me and I am pretty close with them.”
Nebraska: “I really like Nebraska. I went on a visit down there sometime in November or December. Their facilities are really nice and they have guys like Isaiah Roby who went through this program. They have really good pieces that fit together and a really good, successful team.”
WHAT'S NEXT
Carton will finish his junior summer with the Quad City Elite 16-under unit this month.
No visits are planned at the moment, though he did mention a potential trip to Iowa before his high school year resumes in August.
RIVALS' REACTION
Carton has the makings of an early contributor at a high-major program. Displaying a college-ready body and a complete scoring package to go along with an underrated feel for the game, expect his recruitment to soar in the months ahead.
Wisconsin and Marquette were the first two offers for Carton, and each has laid down the proper foundation to potentially securing his commitment down the line. However, a bunch of other Big Ten and Big East programs are due to jump into the picture any day now.
