Offers galore for Whiteside

If you haven't heard the name Hassan Whiteside, that's okay. There is a good chance his name is thrown about over the next six months. The 6-foot-11, 210-pound center from the Patterson (N.C.) School is emerging as one of the top centers left on the board in the 2009 class.

The three-star big man was one of the top players from last weekend's Elite 75 Prep showcase in his hometown of Gastonia, N.C. He showed off his ability to his length on the defensive end of the floor and is one of the top shot-blockers still on the board. He showed off his face up game and knocked down a number of jumpers.

If college coaches were allowed in the gym, there is a good chance he went back to Patterson with at least a half dozen offers. He already has plenty of free rides though. College coaches have made the trek to his school tucked away in the North Carolina mountains and have came away impressed with his play.

Whiteside is claiming offers from Auburn, Charlotte, Kentucky, Mississippi State, Nevada, Seton Hall, South Carolina, St. John's and Xavier. Whiteside said he is also being recruited by Florida State, Louisville, Memphis, N.C. State and West Virginia.

"Everyone is coming by the school," a beaming Whiteside said. "That's cool but I'm trying to get qualified. I've got the SAT coming up and here's the bottom line, if you aren't qualified then you aren't going to school. I can't get caught up in recruiting until I get my grades straight."

Whiteside apparently gets it. He understands his purpose in the classroom. Whiteside he doesn't have any visits set up and doesn't foresee any trips popping up in the near future.

With Patterson playing a big and aggressive schedule, Whiteside will be seen. That won't be a problem. He's already been seen plenty this fall as coaches stop by the school. The offers prove it.

Now it's up to the big man to do his part in the classroom.