JUCO Power Forward Has Several Offers

College of Southern Idaho head coach Gib Arnold has been put on speed dial for Division I recruiters because of the talent on his roster. One player that coaches have inquired about is Bruno Claudino, a 6-foot-8, 225-pound power forward from Sao Paulo, Brazil. The junior college sophomore has been the target of several programs this summer.

“Everyone is talking about our bigs here,” Arnold said. “We’ve had about 25 to 30 coaches in over the last three weeks just to see our guys.”

That is no surprise considering the skills Claudino brings to the table.

“He’s a very athletic power forward that is well-built and uses his size to his advantage down low,” Arnold said. “He’s going to be a very important player for us this coming season because he is so strong. He’s very bouncy and has good hands. I’m expecting a lot from him.”

Arnold said BYU, Iowa, South Carolina, Utah and Utah State have all extended a scholarship while Oregon State and a number of other West Coast schools are also keeping close tabs on him.

Claudino broke his wrist and missed nearly 20 games of action to begin the season. Arnold said he used the power forward slot in choice situations only because the rotation was deep and proven for the talented Eagles. Expect that role to increase this year. In fact, expect his role to be known across the Scenic West Athletic Conference.

“Both (he and Mohamed Kone) will be high-majors,” Arnold said. “(Bruno) could be an all conference player and then we’ll look at the options after the season.”