Maryland adds Rivals150 guard Eric Ayala

Maryland added its third piece to its nationally ranked 2018 recruiting class on Saturday with the commitment of Rivals150 guard Eric Ayala. A 6-foot-4 combo guard that can be used in a variety of capacities, Ayala brings a mature skillset and a competitive mindset to College Park.

Ayala chose the Terps over Oregon and Miami and is another strong pick-up for Mark Turgeon’s bunch. He recently enrolled at the famed IMG Academy program where he should have the chance to gain greater experience during his prep season this winter.

The Rivals150 standout spoke further on why he chose the Big Ten program.

“It is home. I have been there plenty of times and I am comfortable with the coaching staff. The players, I have a relationship with, and really the opportunity that they have for me to slip into a role to play and compete,” he said. “I can play either guard spot and with a few seniors leaving and Justin Jackson maybe going to the NBA, the opportunity is definitely there for me.”

A member of the We R1 unit on the Under Armour circuit, Ayala was a major cog for his team winning consecutive UA championships the past two summers. Averaging over 14 points, six rebounds and two assists per game, Ayala can be leaned upon for his half-court scoring skills, playmaking and on the ball defense.

The third commitment in the 2018 class, Ayala joins fellow Rivals150 guard Aaron Wiggins, creating a strong and versatile backcourt for the years ahead. Jalen Smith, a five-star big man, completes the class thus far, cementing their standing as a top-25 unit heading into the early signing period next month.