N.Engl. Shooting Guard Is A Sleeper

Native New Englanders don't always generate as much attention as their prep school counterparts in the region, at times slipping through the cracks. Dwight Brewington (Providence) didn't burst onto the scene until relatively late. America East Conference player of the year TJ Sorrentine was an unheralded prospect out of Rhode Island who emerged as a standout at Vermont.

Another player who has generated a bit of a buzz out of New England is Jeff Xavier. The 6'1'' 165 pound combo guard from St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, is a member of the class of 2004 who is poised to break through with a quality spring and summer on the AAU circuit, on the heels of a terrific junior season. This member of the class of 2004 has averaged 28 points, 7.9 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 4.4 steals for coach Tom Sorrentine, the father of Vermont's TJ Sorrentine. Xavier has shot 48% from the field, 39% from three, and 82% from the line.

At this point, most of the programs that have taken notice are out of New England. Providence has come in to evaluate Xavier, while Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Rider have all expressed interest. New Hampshire has offered. Xavier has been up to check out Providence's campus this winter.

Xavier can play either guard slot, but according to Sorrentine, he plays off the ball because he can really score.

"He's pretty quick with the ball, and he can shoot the three," said Sorrentine. "You can't play off him, because he'll go by you."

At this stage of Xavier's development, his strength is probably the one thing that needs the most work, although Sorrentine expects him to fill out, as Jeff's older brother has.

"He's a worker," said Sorrentine. "He needs to get stronger to play in a conference like the Big East. But the athleticism is there."

Xavier gained some recognition last summer playing in the Eastern Invitational Camp. He plans to attend Eastern again this summer. Xavier competes on the AAU circuit with the Rhode Island Breakers and coach Jim Fields.

Along with TJ Sorrentine, another alumnus of St. Raphael is St. Joseph's redshirt freshman Mike Williams.

Xavier carries around a 2.5 GPA in the classroom.