One of 2013s elite taking his time
The spotlight has already been shining on Jabari Parker for quite some time. Heralded before he even began his high school career, Parker continues to shine.
Now in his junior year at Chicago (Ill.) Simeon, the 6-foot-8 Parker has emerged as the second ranked prospect nationally in the class of 2013.
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Because of his complete game, he's been compared to the likes of Paul Pierce and Grant Hill and he can see the comparisons.
"I try to play that all around game and work hard," Parker told Rivals.com. "I feel like I can shoot the ball, pass and I have a good game in the post."
As good as he is, Parker hasn't been one to sit around and let the hype build. He's been hard at work each step of the way as he looks to lean up and improve his explosiveness.
"I think I've worked real hard on my body," said the five-star. "Getting my weight down has opened up my game. I'm moving a lot faster and making decisions a lot faster. I think that's going to help me when I get to the college level."
Ask him to name the schools recruiting him and Parker gladly rattles off 20 or so programs including the likes of Kentucky, Michigan State, Kansas, North Carolina, Illinois, Washington, Duke, Texas A&M, Ohio State, Villanova, Georgetown, Arizona and several more.
Of course, Parker knows that he can't list upwards of 20 schools forever. That's why he'll look to cut things down to a more manageable list this winter in hopes of working his way to a senior year decision.
"I think in the wintertime I'm going to think about it more," said Parker. "Maybe cut it down to a top five then because I need to be able to start thinking about it and focusing on it."