Texas lands another top prospect

Right on the heels of landing the No. 2 prospect in the country, the Texas Longhorns have secured a verbal commitment form the No. 79 ranked player in the Rivals150 Justin Mason. The 6-foot-2, 175-pound combo guard from Palo Duro High School in Amarillo, Texas, is a slashing, physical guard custom built for the Big 12.

"Yes, Justin committed to Texas," said Mason's AAU Coach Erven Davis of the Dallas Showtyme. "He's very excited about it. Justin went to Texas this weekend for an unofficial visit and liked it a lot. He got along great with the players and coaches. Justin also likes the facilities a lot.

"Justin was also considering offers from Texas Tech, SMU and New Mexico. They are all great programs, and I dont think he could have made a bad decision, but he just feels like Texas is the best place for him."

A high octane player who averaged 19 points, 6 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 assists per game for his very good Palo Duro team, Mason has a strong all around game with no holes in his skill package. He will take over as the team leader with the departure of backcourt mate Austin Johnson headed to Oklahoma this year.

With his strong workout and love of the game, Mason will only get better before he hits the Texas campus and while he is there.

"Justin is a gym rat, and he likes the fact that a lot of the guys on the Texas roster are gym rats and are committed to winning," said Davis. "They all have 24 hour access to the gym. Justin loves to lift weights, and Texas has a great strength and conditioning program, so that played a big factor in his decision.

"I think Justin will make an immediate impact at Texas. He has the ability to play either guard position. Justin does everything well and is always looking to get better. Texas is getting a great kid."

Despite his status as one of the top prospects in the country, Mason, mystifyingly, has not been invited to any of the upcoming shoe company camps.

He has a 3.0 GPA and is waiting for his SAT results.