Osbys list taking shape

While five-star prospect Romero Osby is taking his game to higher levels, his recruitment is also hitting another gear. Offers are rolling in and some big boys in the Big 12 are making a serious push for the 6-foot-8, 230-pound small forward from Meridian (Miss.) Northeast Lauderdale High School.

"I'd say Kansas and Texas are recruiting me the hardest right now, and of course Mississippi State also," said Osby. "I've already visited Memphis, Georgia Tech, Ole Miss, Mississippi State and Alabama, so when I get my spring schedule straight, I'd like to see Kansas, Texas, Florida and Texas A&M."

Out of all the schools mentioned by Osby, all but Texas A&M have offered. Texas A&M just got involved in the last month. Although the offer hasn't come yet, Texas A&M is, nonetheless, in Osby's top five.

He is listing Kansas, Texas, Texas A&M, Memphis and Florida as his top schools. The second tier is made up of Tennessee, Mississippi State and Alabama.

Part of Osby's draw to the Big 12 has been the success of freshman Kevin Durant.

"I want to make sure I will have a chance to play everywhere on the court," said Osby. "I love what Texas is doing with Durant. He posts up and also gets out on the perimeter. When he has a chance, he also pushes it in transition. I don't want to play in a limited program."

A multidimensional forward, Osby averaged 25 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, four blocks and two steals per game during his junior season. Along with his versatile scoring ability, Osby also feels he can bring leadership to whatever college program he chooses.

"Number one, I can add leadership to a team," he said. "Sometimes you have to get on teammates, and I'm willing to work hard and avoid mistakes, so I can be that leader. I can also help a team out with my ability to score in a lot of different ways.

Romero Osby scouting report:

A jack of all trades type of player, Osby has the size and versatility to impact the game both inside and outside. Developing into a point forward type of player, he is very good at penetrating (loves to go left) and then finding open teammates. Needs to improve the consistency of his outside jumper and improve his lateral quickness defending the perimeter.