Thomas extends college reach

Kyle Thomas, the versatile 6-foot-8 combo forward from Folsom High School (Calif.) had an event-filled summer on the basketball court. At the start of the summer, Thomas worked out with current Cal freshman Ryan Anderson, fine-tuning his game and getting ready for the summer club circuit.

"It was fun working out with Ryan," said Thomas. "We worked on a lot of skill work, working on shooting, ball handling and other things."

Thomas also participated in the Sacramento Pro-Am, competing against current pros and college players, looking for ways to improve his game for the next level.

"I only played in five games and I played well when I played," said Thomas.

From there, he traveled to the Mid-American camp in Kansas and the Las Vegas Reebok Big Time and Best of the Summer tournaments with the West Valley Basketball club team, where he showcased his game before numerous college coaches. Against Mean Streets, the eventual Big Time runners-up, Thomas scored 18 points on a variety of three point jumpers, drives and pull up shots. When he touched the ball, the Mean Street coach and players such as Derrick Rose and Eric Gordon yelled "shooter!"

"In that game, we did not adjust to Rose and Gordon how they shot the ball," said Thomas. "That was the best team we played this summer, and overall, our team play was pretty good this summer."

Bob Bramlett, the founder of the West Valley Basketball Club, was pleased with Thomas' play over the summer.

"Kyle is a determined athlete and player," said Bramlett. "He is very unorthodox. A lefty who goes to his right very strong. He is strong with the ball and he can really shoot it."

While many schools were familiar with Thomas before the summer season, his recruitment is starting to pick up just as the 2006-07 school year begins.

"I am going to have home visits scheduled in the next few weeks with Loyola-Chicago, UC Davis and Portland State," said Thomas. The lefty also plans to take official visits to Loyola, Portland State and the University of Arkansas Little-Rock.

"Arkansas started recruiting me after I went to the Mid American Camp in Kansas City and I played fairly well," said Thomas.

While some schools have stepped in and aggressively courted him, Kyle's recruitment is wide open, depending on the situation and wants to sign during the early signing period in November. Other schools showing interest include Portland, Wisconsin Green-Bay, Bucknell, St. Mary's, Montana, Pacific, Bucknell, Utah and various Ivy League schools.

"I am looking for a school that I can come in and make an impact on the court," said Thomas. "I also want to be able to get a good education."

Besides his versatility on the court, which allows him to play inside out, Thomas has good athleticism for his size. "People do not realize how athletic Kyle is until their face is in his navel and he is above the rim," said Bramlett.

As football season approaches, Thomas spends his time working on his jumper and his game in a attempt to help turn Folsom into a basketball power. Last year Thomas averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds a game, but the team struggled with a losing record. This year, he says things will be different and the record will flip flop.

"We should be one of the best teams in the area," said Thomas. "This year, I have improved a lot. Last year, I just posted up in the paint. This year, I can hit the outside shot and I am more versatile."