Four-star Ayala considering reclassifying to 2017

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The talk surrounding the Putnam Science Academy basketball program in recent months has often centered around Hamidou Diallo, who is now enrolled at Kentucky. However, this winter has become a season of growth for four-star Eric Ayala, a super steady and efficient playmaker from the 2018 class.

Although not the most athletic and quickest of guards, Ayala's skillset, intellect and versatility have enabled the Delaware native to produce with the best of them, regardless of the opposition. A capable shot maker who does his best work off the drive to the basket, Ayala has become the face of the Connecticut prep school.

During his time at the Hoophall Classic, Ayala showcased just what makes him such a priority recruit. Showing off crafty abilities in the lane, a good feel and pace for the game in creating for others and two-way production as a versatile perimeter defender, the Putnam junior filled up the final box score. All seven of his field goals came from at the rim as he finished with 20 points, six rebounds, five assists and three steals.

Now entering the last several weeks of his junior campaign, the thought of reclassing back into the 2017 class, his original graduating class, has been brought to the table.

“I’m still up in the air right now, just trying to get through the high school season and make myself more of a leader,” Ayala said.

“Just where I am at the moment after the high school season and where I am mentally (will influence my decision). Physically, I know I can play, but mentally I need to know if I am ready or not.”

When it comes to the recruiting front, a number of schools have shown their hand in relaying to Ayala how much they really want him.

“Everybody, from Kansas, UConn, Syracuse, Louisville, Texas, N.C. State, Maryland, Indiana, and Arizona; everyone is in the mix right now,” the top-100 junior said.

Diallo, who made an abrupt decision to leave for college earlier than expected, has remained a sounding board of sorts for Ayala.

“We talk about it a lot but we are going down different paths," Ayala said. "He did what was best for him and I have to do what is best for me. You know, at the end of the day you need to control what you can control and I am always leaning on him for advice. He is a really good big brother for me.”

A number of schools would love to have Ayala next season, and thanks to the recent misses by Syracuse and UConn, one would expect that either program would love to have the 6-foot-3 guard immediately. However, don’t expect a decision pertaining to his reclassification anytime soon.

Additionally, after the decision might be made to jump back into the 2017 class, another few weeks would have to be given for Ayala to sift through the recruitment process and take official visits to some of his potential landing spots.

For some, quickly changing plans and jumping into the college ranks a year early might be difficult. However, thanks to the style of play that Ayala exhibits in the backcourt and his ability to score, make plays and defend, the efficient junior has the skillset to make the move into the college level and help a high-major program next year.

Ayala has made a great jump with his game this winter and whether he decides to go 2017 or not, the four-star recruit looks to have the toughness and consistent mindset that should make him a solid contributor at the highest of levels, whenever the time might permit.