Michael Clarke Decides
One of the more overlooked players that remained in the class of 2002 was Michael Clarke, 6-5 and 215 pounds. However, Central Connecticut State never overlooked this warrior on the glass. Clarke accepted a scholarship offer from Central Connecticut State, a team that advanced to the NCAA tournament last month.
Clarke (pictured right) doesn't receive the big pub but he produced many valuable minutes, points, and rebounds for New Hampton and head coach Jamie Arnesault.
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Clarke will battle you for loose balls and do a lot of the dirty work inside for you. His work is rarely recognized but Arnesault understands his team is able to win a lot of games because of Clarke.
"He works hard for us inside and gets a lot of second chances because of his hard work," Arnesault said. "Mike is a valuable member of our team. He is a tough competitor and works hard on both ends of the court."
Clarke also considered Rider. Many mids to low majors did evaluate him. Drake had a representative on hand to watch Clarke last month but did not get seriously involved.
"He can play division one ball," Arnesault said. "He uses his body well in the low post."
Arnesault is correct. Clarke uses his wide frame to outmatch bigger bodies. He shields his opponents with his body and is able to score close in by virtue of his basketball smarts.