SoCal swingman names a favorite

Being the sixth man on your AAU team isn't so bad when that team happens to be the SoCal All-Stars.

Junior small forward Darrington Hobson joined the mega-talented squad, which includes top 10 prospect Kevin Love, Duke-commit Taylor King and highly-touted sophomore guard Brandon Jennings, earlier this month, and came off the bench to help them win the Las Vegas Easter Classic two weeks ago and the prestigious Houston Kingwood Classic last weekend.

"This is probably the best experience I have ever had," Hobson told Rivals.com. "At first it was tough, because I was used to getting the ball a lot. Everyone on this team is. But, I realized I can do a little bit of everything from helping rebound to bringing some energy to the defensive end. I've found my role and settled into it."

Hobson, a versatile 6-foot-7, 180-pounder from Calvary Baptist Christian in Pacoima, Calif., is settling into the role of a major prospect as well. Ranked the No. 51 prospect in the class of 2007, he de-committed from Wyoming in November and has been receiving much more interest since.

Hobson said Texas, Texas A&M and UNLV have all offered scholarships, and Arizona, Georgetown and UCLA have all begun to show interest.

Out of that group, Hobson already has a favorite.

"I really like Arizona," Hobson said. "I can't explain why. I've just always really liked them."

Hobson, who played his first two seasons at Gulf Shores Academy in Houston, says that he wants to go somewhere he can play right away.

"Playing time is probably the most important factor," Hobson ssid. "Plus, I want to come in as a freshman and have a chance to win and go somewhere that can help me get to the next level."

Hobson will get a chance to play at the University of Arizona during the Arizona Catcus Classic on May 19-21.