Thomas a Player to Watch in 2004 Class

While much of the ink gets devoted to his sophomore teammate Monta Ellis, 6-7, 220 pound junior power forward Charles Thomas of Lanier H.S. in Jackson, Miss., caught our eye a bit at the recent Prime Time Shootout in Trenton, N.J.

Blessed with broad shoulders and long arms, Thomas did a good job of hitting the glass in a 71-69 loss to St. Raymond's H.S. of the Bronx, N.Y. He showed the ability to finish with both hands around the cup, and is also a good passer for a big man. He needs to work on his shot mechanics a bit and develop a better touch facing the basket.

Lanier Head Coach Thomas Billups told Rivalshoops.com that Thomas has fielded early recruiting interest from programs like Louisiana State, Oklahoma, Ole Miss and Mississippi State, to name a few.

Billups expects Thomas to play with his Magnolia Stars program this spring and summer. If Rivalshoops.com catches them in action, we'll let you know how Thomas fares against other top big men in the Class of 2004. Stay tuned!