Maniru playing big in Alabama

Although he missed 15 games in the middle of the season with a broken foot, 2008 prospect Bawa Muniru made significant contributions in his first season of high school basketball towards Madison Academy's run to a Alabama state championship. Both his in-state schools and others across the country are tracking the 6-foot-11, 250-pound center.

"Alabama, Auburn and UAB have seen him play this year," said Madison Academy head coach Dan Petty. "Illinois has called about him, and we've also heard from UCLA, Kentucky, Tennessee and a bunch of others."

Set to run with the Southeast Elite this summer, Manuri averaged 10 points, 6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks for the Alabama 3A state champs.

"It was Bawa's first year to play school ball, and he's getting better everyday," said Petty. "He has a nice shot and can really run the floor. He also has a great basketball body.

"He needs to continue to work on everything. The problem he has right now is that he is thinking everything through, which slows him down. He just needs to learn the game and get more aggressive.

"We are really encouraged about his future. He is an unbelievable kid, and everyone loves him. The best thing he has going for him is his attitude and work ethic."