Thabeet goes on

Close the books on the class of 2006. The last big-name senior left came off the board on Friday.

HaSheem Thabeet, a 7-foot-2, 245-pound senior from Houston, verbally committed to Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun this morning according to his coach at the Cypress Community School, Mark McClanahan.

Thabeet, who emerged as major prospect late in the season, chose the Huskies over Cincinnati and Louisville. He made official visits to all three schools.

"HaSheem liked the situation best at UConn," McClanahan said. "He felt it was the best for him and a place where he can make his dreams of making the NBA come true.

"He also really liked the environment there, especially because there aren't many distractions in that area and he can focus on basketball."

Thabeet felt that UConn offered him the best chance to play significant minutes right away. The Huskies are losing at least three starters and five of their top six scorers. Starting power forward Josh Boone (10.3 points, 7.0 rebounds) is testing the NBA draft and may return for his senior season.

"(Boone's situation) played a small role and playing time was a big factor at first, but as HaSheem got better and better he realized he could play anywhere," McClanahan said. "No matter where he went I think he would have played and with UConn losing so many players it only makes playing time that much more available."

Thabeet moved to the United States less than two years ago from the African country of Tanzania. Most college coaches did not get a chance to see him play until this past season, but once they got a glimpse of the giant many immediately started showing interest.

UConn, Louisville, Cincinnati and Miami all offered scholarships. Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and others also showed interest.

"HaSheem's progression this season was amazing," McClanahan said. "He literally got better each time he played. He has all the talent and ability and as he grows more comfortable he will only improve more."

McClanahan said Thabeet is on track to qualify academically and is planning on enrolling at UConn in the summer.