Oregon Junior Has Top Looks

LaTravis Turner, a 6-foot-4, 180-pound swingman from Lincoln High School in Portland, Ore., could be the most electrifying performer in Oregon's talented Class of 2005. His travels this summer with the Portland Elite Legends program have brought about a lot of major college interest, even this early stage of the ballgame.

"My summer has been going good, basketball and everything. I've been getting a whole lot of letters," said Turner. "Arizona, UCLA, Texas Tech, USC, Missouri, Florida State - I'm real open."

Turner is an outstanding run and jump athlete who leaps out of the gym. Ever since middle school, his dunking exploits have been legendary in the Portland area. He is a tremendous finisher on the break and is an alley-oop threat every time down the floor.

Like some natural athletes, Turner's basketball skills are still a bit raw and are in development. While he excels in transition, works hard on the glass, and is a factor defensively with his athleticism, Turner is still putting together a complete offensive game. Capable of scoring in the post and from mid-range with the one-handed runner his specialty, Turner has been working on extending his range and improving his ball-handling.

"I've been really working on my handle and my shot," said Turner.

As a junior, Turner averaged 9.1 points while leading the team in rebounding. With Lincoln next season, Turner should see his role increase as one of the main offensive threats along with classmate point guard Omar Leary. While last year's head coach Troy Berry (incidentally, also Turner's coach with the Legends) has moved on to coach back at his alma mater, Benson Tech, Turner holds no grudges.

"He coached (Lincoln) for six years, his daughter graduated, so I think it's a good move for him," said Turner. "I'm going to miss him when he's gone because he's a good coach. I'm happy to see him over there at Benson."

Turner is looking ahead to playing for his new coach, Jeff Bair.

"He's going to be a good coach and a good influence on the kids on our team," said Turner. "I like his coaching style too. I think he'll replace Troy well."

Be sure to keep an eye on Turner's development over the next two years.

Jed Tai is a senior writer with Hoopville.com