Published May 3, 2003
Purdue Recruit Opens Up Process
Russ Blake
RivalsHoops.com Recruiting Analyst
Robert Vaden, a sharpshooting 6-5, 200 pound small forward/shooting guard from Pike H.S. in Indianapolis, told RivalsHoops.com on Friday night that he is looking to reopen his recruitment this spring.
Vaden gave a very early commitment to Purdue University, and while he still considers the Boilermakers his leader, he said he wants to look at some other options before signing a national letter of intent.
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"I think it will be fairer to myself to take a look around and see what's out there," he said after pumping in 33 points to lead Spiece Top Prospects to a victory on Friday night. "If none of the schools are right for me, then there's always Purdue."
Vaden gave RivalsHoops.com a list of schools that he would be interested in hearing from. Among that group are Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Kansas, Louisville, Florida and Kentucky.
"I want to go somewhere that they get up and down the floor and play defense," he added.
Vaden has his shot radar working in an easy win over Compton Magic. He connected on seven three pointers in the lopsided win.
This past season at perennial power Pike, Vaden averaged 13.4 points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals per game. He said he has a 2.5 GPA but has yet to take the SAT or ACT.
Vaden said he has had a chance to unofficially visit both Purdue and Indiana during the past year, taking in basketball games at both campuses.
Vaden has a good basketball body, can finish with both hands at the rim and is a surprisingly adroit passer. His handle is just adequate, but his shooting ability is what sets him apart from many other players in the Class of 2004.