Can Duke Grab Shelden Williams This Weekend
It's a big weekend for Duke University. A star-studded charity game plus Shelden Williams, one of the country's top players in the class of 2002, officially visiting Coach K and his staff.
It's a big weekend in the sense that it's likely Duke will push on all buttons to convince Williams, a multi-talented and hard-working 6-9, 240-pound forward from Midwest City High School in Oklahoma, to make a verbal commitment before he leaves the Durham area.
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Williams has stated anything is possible. So with that in mind, what are the chances? Well, remember when Chris Duhon said he would not verbal on his visit to Duke? Of course, as history has shown, he did make a verbal commitment to Duke on his official visit.
Duke has been amazingly successful in convincing high profile recruits in recent years to verbal after their visits. This will be the ultimate test. As most visitors know, this program and school is rich in tradition and possesses academic firepower. Both of these features are attractive to Williams.
If Williams is not to decide and make some more visits. Illinois, Oklahoma, and North Carolina are also being seriously considered. But make no mistake about it -- Duke will look to nail down this one this weekend.
When talking about deciding early, Williams previously stated: "There is always that possibility," Williams said. "Duke is my leader. Coach K is one of the best coaches ever. It's a great academic school."
Williams, who averaged 20 points and 13 rebounds per game last season as a junior, is a legitimate McDonald's All American candidate because he has an impact on both sides of the court.
He plays tough inside and can go out and drop down the jumper. Williams is also a good defender, works hard on the glass, and blocks shots.
"I want to make sure that I go to a school where there is a chance to win it all," Williams said. "I also want to make sure I go to a school where I can fit in to a system and enjoy playing."