IMG Academy small forward Ricky Sanchez has seen his stock continue to rise this summer after touring the AAU circuit with Puerto Rico Pump-N-Run. Despite the many overtures for his signature the 6-foot-11, 205-pounder has narrowed his list of favorites down to five.

“Memphis, Florida, Miami, Texas and UCLA are the five schools that I am focused on,” Sanchez said. “I had a lot of good colleges to choose from but I wanted to get my list to an easier number to manage. Everything has been overwhelming and it was hard for me to focus with so many people calling.”

Sanchez, who previously listed Indiana, Kansas, Louisville, Oklahoma and Texas among his favorites, had good things to say about his five finalists.

“Coach (John) Calipari is a big reason I like Memphis. He’s coached in the NBA and I know he can get me ready for a professional career.

“Miami is an up-and-coming program. I love the atmosphere and their style of play.

“I like Florida for the same reasons I like Miami. It’s a good program with a coaching staff that coaches an exciting style of basketball.

"Texas has a nice hispanic community and the coaches have put a good team together.

“The weather in Los Angeles is beautiful. You get 12 months of sunny weather and UCLA has a good program and tradition.”

Sanchez, who is rated the nation’s 11th best small forward by Rivals.com, indicated that he wasn’t ruling out an early commitment.

“I’m going to start setting up my official visits and if I’m blown away at one school I will go ahead and make my decision,” he said. “All five schools give me a great opportunity for not only basketball but also education and lifestyle.

“I’m looking for a school where I have a trusting relationship with the coaches. Not just a basketball relationship but where I feel I can turn to them for advice. I also want to feel comfortable with the players and students.”

Sanchez, a native of Puerto Rico, is excited to be moving to Bradenton, Fla., to attend IMG.

“IMG give me the perfect situation to improve my game and focus on the class room. It’s really nice,” Sanchez said. “I’m working on my post moves and footwork. I have to get bigger and stronger to play college ball and they have the facilities to help me.”