TEANECK, NEW JERSEY -- Taquan Dean, one of the top shooters in the class of 2002, who made a commitment on May 21st to Rick Pitino's Louisville basketball program, had a solid game last night in front of his soon to be coach.

Pitino spent the game watching his new recruit and also taking a look at Francisco Garcia, who happens to be an AAU teammate's of Dean.

Dean, 6-3, 175-pounds, plays at Neptune High School near the Shores of New Jersey. "I committed to Louisville because of Rick Pitino," Dean said. "I grew up watching Pitino and when I got an opportunity to play for him I could not turn that down."

And Pitino was there last night lending his support. Dean will fit in nicely with Rick Pitino's style of offense. Dean loves to take the ball and head to the hoop. He also has the ability to shoot the three-pointer.

What Dean does so effectively is force two or three defenders to play him when he penetrates. This opens up spaces inside for the big people to get free for easy layups or putbacks.

Dean, who averaged 20 points a game last season, said he has appreciated the support he has received since his commitment to Louisville. "Rick Pitino showed me how down to earth he is," Dean said. "He loves shooters."

Dean dropped in 17 points last night against the Pacers. He also had a solid floor game. This has to impress Pitino watching the game.

And Pitino will love Dean who can shoot with the best of them. Dean likes to push the ball up in transition and punish defenders who lag behind.

Dean is expected to play with the Long Island Panthers in the 3 Stripes Charity Event at Hofstra University later this week. We will keep you updated on how he performs.