Roundtree to the MVC
2008 three-star prospect Torres Roundtree had a strong mix of mid-major and high-major schools pursuing him. But the versatile guard out of McCluer North High School in Florissant, Mo., ended his recruitment before the high-majors offered with a commitment to Southern Illinois.
"I've been comfortable with Coach Lowry since day one," said Roundtree. "He's an up and coming coach running an up and coming program. I've liked the way he's been talking to me, and I liked the campus when I visited."
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Roundtree chose one of the top programs in one of the hottest conferences over offers from St. Louis, Illinois State, Indiana State and Southeast Missouri State. Purdue, Illinois, Missouri and Baylor were all tracking Roundtree in expectation of further evaluating him in the summer.
Along with his ability to play multiple positions, Roundtree's prowess as a defensive stopper was a mutual attraction between the two parties.
"Coach Lowry said he would use me mainly at the one, but I'll also slide over to the two and three," Roundtree said. "He also wants me to be a defensive stopper for them. I take pride in my defense, and that is one of the reasons I chose Southern Illinois. I love their rugged, grinding style of play."
Roundtree, who is averaging 18 points, seven rebounds and five assists per game this year, played for the St. Louis Eagles last summer but is considering a change for the coming travel circuit.
"The Eagles have their top prospects in Scott Suggs and John Brandenburg, but I feel that I'm the best player in Missouri," he said. "It's nothing against those guys. I like them a lot. I just feel that I need to play against them to prove what I can do."