Mix of schools tracking Harden

Senior small forward Joe Harden of St. Mary's High School in Stockton, Calif., is one of the mid-major/high-major bubble prospects whose stock becomes more valuable as the late signing period nears. Averaging a double/double for his 23-3 team, Harden, 6-foot-6, 195-pounds, has a healthy mix of schools recruiting him.

"I'm interested in Notre Dame, Oregon, Santa Barbara, San Diego, USC, Arkansas and Loyola Marymount," said Harden. "Every school but Arkansas has been to a game this year. Arkansas has been talking to Mats (Coach Matsubara of the EBO/EA Sports AAU club)."

Harden, who has an offer from Santa Barbara and has officially visited the school, plans to visit San Diego once the season ends.

"I'll probably take a couple more visits, but I'm not sure," he said. "I want to play for a good team where I can compete right away for playing time. I also want to play for a coach I get along with and one that will make me better as a player."

Harden brought the intangibles and a solid skill set off the bench for the very successful EBO squad this past summer. Refining those skills and improving his athleticism are the focus of Harden's development.

"I'm working hard on my shooting and ball handling," he said. "I also want to get faster and stronger before college. I've put in a lot of extra work this year."

On the season, Harden is averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds.