Thomas not hurrying but plans on early decision
Norcross (Ga.) power forward Lance Thomas started to catch the attention of college coaches last summer during travel season. At 6-foot-9, Thomas intrigues college coaches because of his length and athleticism, but also because he can step out shoot from three-point range.
So far during his junior season, he’s averaging roughly 10 points, eight rebounds and four blocks per game on one of the best teams in Georgia. He’s collected offers from Clemson, Texas Tech, VCU, Richmond and several mid-majors along with interest from Auburn, Stanford, Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Wake Forest.
IN HIS OWN WORDS
Thomas talked about what stands out about some of the main schools involved in his recruitment.
Clemson: “Right now, they love me the most. We have a real tight, close-knit bond. I think coach (Brad) Brownell is doing well up and they have beaten some really good teams. They play like we do at Norcross.”
Texas Tech: “I haven’t really seen them a lot yet, but I’ve heard they have a pretty good team this year. I’ve been talking to coach (Joe) Esposito a good bit from there.”
VCU: “They are a really good team. They play the most like we do at Norcross. Coach (Will) Wade always talks to me about how I can fit into the program because they play a lot like we do. Their assistant came to watch us and thought we played just like them.”
Stanford: “I think they are a good team. I really like their program. They are probably recruiting me the hardest along with Clemson. They are recruiting me hard. They can’t offer until later on because they have to wait and see on my grades and test scores. They started watching me last summer and like me.”
Tennessee: “I haven’t seen them play yet, but I know coach (Rick) Barnes likes me because I’m tall and I have some skill.”
WHAT'S NEXT
With only one week left in the regular season before going into the region tournament and state playoffs, the primary focus for Thomas is helping traditional Georgia powerhouse Norcross win another state title. He doesn’t plan on committing any time soon. He’s aiming to have his decision out of the way by the early signing period in November.
RIVALS' REACTION
Thomas admits Clemson and Stanford are the two schools standing out the most right now. If Stanford doesn’t come through with an offer, Brad Brownell’s chances of reeling in Thomas should be pretty strong.