Earl Clark, a man for all positions

It is difficult to pin a position on 6-foot-8,, 200-pound Earl Clark. The junior out of Rahway (N.J.) High School is probably best described as a point forward. He is not a great shooter on the wing, but he can penetrate, pass and handle the ball remarkably well for his size. Presently ranked No. 39 in the class of 2006, Clark made a strong case for rising in the rankings.

Clark played a fair amount of point guard for The Playaz and did a very good job at that the position. The main problem with him playing the point, however, is that he is not around the basket enough. With his length, savvy and athleticism, Clark can be both a potent rebounder and scorer in the paint.

In addition, no matter where he plays on offense, he does not have the quickness to defend a guard but is built perfectly to guard either forward position.

Clark is best suited for the power forward position, where he can bring the ball inbounds and be an extra handler up the court against pressure. The offense can still go through him in the half court. After a few passes he gets the ball in the high post and then operates as a playmaker. He would also be able to exchange with the post player and operate in the low or mid-post. Defensive match ups would stay intact as well with Clark at the four.

The beautiful thing about Clark, however, is that he can play four positions offensively, allowing a coach to create mismatches and tweak lineups.

This weekend Clark named Villanova as his favorite, while also listing Miami, Louisville and Kentucky. Look for this list to expand, along with his offers, after his performance at the Real Deal on the Hill.

Coming into the weekend, Villanova and Miami had extended offers to Clark.

Here is what Clark, who averaged 18 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists per game this high school season, had to say about his top school.

"Villanova produces great guards," he said. "I can play the one through the four, but I see myself as a point guard. Right now I am working hard to improve my outside shot."