Promising forward to Rutgers

Most high major programs either overlooked the very young 2005 three-star prospect Zach Gibson or wanted to wait till after the early signing period to offer him. The 6-foot-8, 190-pound combo forward from Grand Blanc (Mich.) High School certainly needs to gain weight and strength, but Rutgers realized the enormous upside of the skilled Gibson.

“I think committing to Rutgers is a great move for him,” said Grand Blanc assistant coach Brad Morris. “He was hoping [Michigan] State would do something, but I just don’t think that would have been a great fit. He is not really their type of post player, and State is loaded with big men. Plus, Zach did not want to redshirt, and Rutgers gave him an opportunity to come in and play right away.”

Gibson was strongly recruited by most of the schools in the MAC, and several high majors were hoping he would wait until the spring to make a decision.

“Zach had offers from every MAC school,” said Morris. “Toledo was on him really hard. In fact, it probably came down to Toledo and Rutgers. Vanderbilt was beginning to show interest. And Pittsburgh started recruiting him as well.”

Blessed with good hands and coordination, Gibson has nice touch around the basket and from the outside. He is effective in the high post as both a scorer and passer. He also runs the floor well and is an active offensive rebounder.

He has a tone of upside as he is young, skilled and mainly just needs to get stronger.

“Zach has been in the weight room and working with a trainer on his quickness and jumping,” said Morris. “It has really helped his explosiveness. He is jumping quicker and is more balanced going to the basket.

“He is a young senior, who either just turned 17 or is getting ready to turn 17. He really has unlimited potential. He is a great kid and is going to have a great season.”

Gibson, who played for the Michigan Mustangs 16-under team this summer, averaged 14 points and 10 rebounds per game as a junior last season.