Carlwell ready to make his name

Brian Carlwell will debut on the Rivals150 on Wednesday as a high four-star prospect. He's sure he'll hear the whispers - both good and bad - about his national recognition around town in Maywood, Ill. That's okay with the 6-foot-10, 235-pound power forward/center from Proviso East High School. He uses the chatter as his motivation for his game. Just be sure to get out of his way when he decides it's time to show people what he's all about.

Carlwell is one of the more intriguing prospects in the class of 2006 because of his size, soft hands, long frame and raw potential. Not to mention, he's a one of the strongest players in his class. Just ask any defender that has caught one of his shoulders in the chest.

The big man said he's still yet to tip the scales on what he can become. And people constantly let him know that, too.

"I have a lot left in me. I want to keep working hard and proving to people that I'm a good player," Carlwell said. "When I get home, I hear the people that say I'm overrated but that makes me want to play even harder. It pushes me. It's nice having something to fuel your fire."

In between national tournaments with his Ferrari AAU club, Carlwell has been busy working on his game and improving his stamina and post work.

"My offense still needs some work," Carlwell said. "I'm scoring a lot but I still have to do more overall. A lot of my stuff comes off tip backs and offensive rebounds. I need to expand on what I can do."

Carlwell said Illinois, Michigan State, Florida State, Virginia, Arizona, Purdue and Ohio State all came to Proviso East High to see him in action in the spring. He also said all of the schools have offered. Three programs have made their way to the top of his list early on.

"Right now, I'm planning on taking all five visits. I know I'll go to Illinois, Michigan State and Florida State right now and I'll take the final two but I'm keeping those open for now," Carlwell said. "My schedule is really busy right now but I want to work (the visits) out as soon as possible. I'm trying to squeeze them in this summer."

While no official dates have been established, Carlwell is busy building bonds with those that are recruiting him.

"For me, the decision is going to have a lot to do with the coaches and me. Our relationship is key," Carlwell said. "Plus, I want to go somewhere with a nice campus but the coaches are big."

Carlwell will play in front of college coaches at the Nike All-American camp at the beginning of July and then it's the nationwide tour, making stops at the Peach Jam, Las Vegas or Orlando and other events. Carlwell said he's got one thing in mind in July.

"It's time to make my name. I'm ready."