Fields Eyeing July Return

Levance Fields was off to a great start on the AAU trail but then a sprained ankle sidelined him and forced the 5-foot-10, 170-pound point guard to watch from the sideline. The Xaverian (N.Y.) High School product has taken a new approach to the game and has plans for a big return and an even bigger splash on the recruiting scene.

“I should be back by Nike camp,” he said. “It’s been hard but in a way, I’ve sat back and relaxed. I’ve missed some tournaments but I’ve also been able to watch and learn more about my teammates. You know, what their strengths and weaknesses are. I feel that will help us in July.”

Fields, who runs the show for the New York Gauchos, has his sights set on the Nike All-American camp for his return. The event is also the first time coaches can get out and observe players. Fields said he isn’t worry about playing through the cobwebs in front of the recruiters.

“I’ve been hurt before so I know I can go in there with the confidence I’ve had before I was hurt,” Fields said. “I’ll be alright.”

He has reason to be at ease. Miami (Fla.), Pittsburgh, Georgia Tech, Villanova, Kentucky, Ohio State, Rhode Island, St. John’s, UNLV, Rutgers, Seton Hall and a number of others have sent letters, Fields said.

“I have no favorites right now,” Fields said. “I’d like to get out there and visit some schools. I’d like to visit Miami (Fla.) and Syracuse.”

Fields has taken the SAT and said he’d like to take the test two more times. On the court, he displayed solid court skills and knows how to utilize his teammates effectively all with a bit of the famous New York City flair.

Stay tuned to RivalsHoops.com for more updates on the rest of the class of 2005.