Thompson headed to Big 12

A prospect of the caliber of Tristan Thompson can basically name his school. So Thompson, a 6-foot-8, 210-pound 2010 forward from Newark (N.J.) St. Benedict's Prep, did his research, took a bunch of unofficial visits and has determined where he will play his college basketball.

After taking unofficial visits to Duke, Louisville, Maryland, Rutgers, Seton Hall, Syracuse, Texas and UConn, Thompson has decided to play for the Texas Longhorns.

"Tristan got so much exposure in AAU, elite camps and playing for St. Benedict's that he was basically offered by every program in the country," said Thompson's travel team coach Ro Russell of Grassroots Canada. "He had his pick of where he wanted to go to school, so he fast tracked his recruitment. He did a lot of research and took a bunch of unofficial visits. He really wanted to get his recruitment out of the way, so he could focus on his studies and improving as a basketball player. He enjoyed being recruited, but at the same time, he didn't really enjoy it."

Long, athletic and full of upside, Thompson was impressed with his visit to Texas as well as a longing to follow in the footsteps of Kevin Durant.

"He really enjoyed the visit," said Russell. "He was impressed with the facilities and the campus. He and his mother also bonded with the coaches. Another draw to Texas is that he sees himself developing into a Kevin Durant type player in the future."

Almost a certainty to be a five-star prospect when Rivals.com extends its 2010 ranking, Thompson will be the prominent prospect for Grassroots Canada on the travel circuit after playing a supporting role for the talent laden St. Benedict's squad.