Pateev looking at his options

Over the years, Montverde (Fla.) Academy has become a big man factory for college coaches. This year is no different.

Head coach Kevin Sutton is expecting big things from Ruslan Pateev, a 7-foot, 240-pound center from Russia. The lone starter from last year's successful team that sent off a number of players to the Division I level, Pateev is expected to step up even more this season.

"He is very talented. He runs the floor well, skilled, can step out and knock down shots but also very good with his back to the basket," Sutton said. "I expect for him to be one of my leading scorers, especially with what he can do in the interior. He had a great summer and I'm expecting him to be one our leaders this year."

Schools have caught on to the three-star big man. Sutton said Pateev will visit Arizona State on Oct. 25. A trip to Florida State is likely, too, Sutton says. Pateev will take the SAT this weekend for the first time.

SMU, South Florida, Central Florida and Georgia Tech are also interested, Sutton said. None of the schools have offered a scholarship yet. Arizona State and SMU were in to see the big man on Thursday.

While not in a rush to make a decision, Sutton said Pateev will look at every option closely.

"I think he'll look at everything after he takes his visits and he'll have to decide on what he likes and whether or not he'll go early or he'll go late," Sutton said. "That's on him."