Five-star James Wiseman drumming up big time interest

COLORADO SPRINGS – Nobody at USA Basketball's U16 National Team tryouts had the blend of size, length and fluid athleticism that top five rising junior James Wiseman possesses. Already a top five player in the class of 2019, Wiseman's stock is soaring and some big names are watching closely.

Wiseman was very impressive at the U16 tryouts over the weekend so it wasn't a surprise to see him named to the team late Monday night. He credits having been to an October USA Basketball event for making a difference.

"It's a great experience," Wiseman told Rivals.com. "The first time I came was back in October and there were guys like P.J. Washington and all of these five-star upperclassmen to help through the drills and stuff. I knew a lot from that camp, but this camp has been mostly people my age so it's been a lot more competitive."

Most recently, Indiana and SMU have offered. Also taking closer interest in his play and expected to evaluate him closely in July are Duke, Kansas and Kentucky. Wiseman already holds offers from Alabama, Vanderbilt, Tennessee, Texas, Florida, Oklahoma State and many others.

USA Basketball: Fresh faces

Indiana: "Archie Miller has been talking to me lately and saying that he wants me to come over there and visit. He thinks I would fit well in their organization, their system."

Vanderbilt: "I think I would have a great relationship with Bryce Drew if I went there. He said that I would fit in their system and he really wants me to help recruit some players if I were to go there."

Alabama: "Coach (Avery) Johnson just wants me to come down there and compete. He says that I would like it there, once I step on the court and feel the atmosphere. The environment is good and he thinks I would like everything about it."

Tennessee: "I feel good about them. I feel like Jordan Bone and I would play well together. It would be great."

After playing with USA Basketball in June, Wiseman will be busy playing with Team Penny on the Nike circuit. He mentioned Duke, Kentucky, Indiana and Texas as programs he may look to set up unofficial visits with but he's in no rush.

"All schools are really equal to each other so I don't know what I'm going to do yet," Wiseman said. "I'll probably sit down with my family and talk about that stuff after the Peach Jam (in July)."