Not only has three-star 2005 prospect DeAndre Thomas lost over 30-pounds since this summer, the combo forward from Westinghouse High School in Chicago, Ill., also recently scored a 20 on his ACT, making him academic qualifier. Just as impressive, is the list of schools now recruiting the 6-foot-7, 270-pound Thomas. Out of this group of schools, Thomas has a solid top six with two leaders ahead of that pack.

"Florida State, Kansas, Illinois, Oregon, Georgia Tech, Georgia, Oklahoma State, Miami and Purdue have all been in to see me or are coming in soon," said Thomas. "Kansas, Florida State, Miami, Illinois, Purdue and Seton Hall have already watched me and have offered me. Those are my top six schools."

When the summer ended, Thomas' situation was not nearly as positive as it is now. The highly skilled big man weighed more than 300-pounds and had not yet made a qualifying score on the ACT. Determined to change his situation, Thomas has since shed the pounds, got the score and now has a number of options opening up for him.

"I'm playing good and we are 11-2 right now," said Thomas, who is averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds per game. "I'm rebounding and scoring and being a leader for our team. I'm always trying to motivate my teammates and do the little stuff on the court."

The agile big man has great hands and feet and is blessed with very good skills with the basketball. He passes well, can put the ball on the floor and has a soft shooting touch. As he continues to improve his conditioning, his lift off the floor will certainly improve.

As far has his school list is concerned, Thomas has two favorites but insists that he is still open to other schools.

"I'm open, but I have a strong top six," he said. "I really like Kansas and Illinois. Any school get sneak into the top, though. I am not just set on these two schools.

"But I have liked Coach Self since I was a freshman and he was at Illinois. He saw me in the summer before my sophomore year and has watched me play against Julian Wright. I really like Julian and his style of play.

"And you have to like the Illinois' coaching staff. I also like the school and am feeling all the players. I basically know all of them. It could be a good fit."

Don't look for a decision soon, however, from Thomas. He wants to take his visits first and has his high school team at the forefront of his thoughts.

"I will wait till the season is over," he said. "I am focused on my teammates and trying to win the state right now. After the season, I do want to visit Kansas, Illinois and Florida State."