Duke, Kentucky showing interest in five-star Shittu

INDIANAPOLIS – Five-star Simi Shittu has established himself of a top target of several programs, and now the No. 10 player in 2018 is hearing from the top programs.

Duke and Kentucky called Shittu’s parents last week and started the process of getting involved with the junior.

“If they were to offer me, they would jump in immediately,” Shittu said. “Obviously, they are a top team and it would help me a lot. It would show that the bluebloods are interested and it is going to help me blow up a little more on the circuit.”

Running with the CIA Bounce 17-under team for his final travel basketball season, Shittu has been phenomenal through two sessions of play on the Nike circuit. Averaging over 19 points, 11 rebounds and close to three assists per game. The 6-foot-9 power forward that is graced with excellent length, improving ball skills and quality finishing abilities.Vanderbilt is the latest to offer Shittu, with Notre Dame, Michigan, Texas, Oregon and UCLA also already involved.

While there had been murmurs of a potential reclass into the 2017 class, Shittu has remained steadfast on remaining in the 2018 class.

The recruiting process remains more in the wait and see stage for Shittu, despite holding over 20 scholarship offers, as the idea of Duke and Kentucky getting more involved has definitely caught his eye.

Shittu has an idea about his timetable for a decision and what he is looking for in a school.

“Probably after the summer I will narrow it down, around August or September,” he said. “I guess (I want to go) where I can play my game, a lot of development, a lot of NBA alumni and a coach that lets his players play.”

It is anyone’s guess as to where Shittu might attend college. It does look like he will definitely return to Vermont Academy this fall for his senior year and if either Kentucky or Duke were to jump into the picture with an offer, either blueblood program may then become a heavy favorite for the five-star power forward.