Two Big Ten offers for 2006 Leonard

Jarod Leonard, one of the top performers at this past summer’s Nike Hoop Jamboree and the No. 105 ranked player in the class of 2006 had a breakout summer with the St. Louis Eagles AAU program. Now the 6-foot-6, 179-pound wing player from DeSmet Jesuit in Maryland, Mo., has two Big Ten offers.

“I like Miami, Florida, North Carolina State, Virginia, USC, St. Louis, Missouri, Illinois, Purdue, Iowa, and Florida State,”said Leonard. “Coaches from North Carolina State, Purdue, Illinois, Missouri, and St. Louis have been to my school to see me play.”

Purdue, Iowa and St. Louis have all offered scholarships to Leonard.

At this point, Leonard is only concerned about being able to contribute on the floor for his future college.

"I just want to go in and know I can contribute,” he said. “I don’t want to sit on the bench. I feel I’ve worked hard and just want to be able to play."

Rivals.com has this scouting report on Leonard based on his play at the Nike Hoop Jamboree:

Leonard is a slasher and big time play maker. Not only can he attack the rim, but he can shoot it and pass it. He consistently knocked down 18-footers and will soon have consistent three point range. If he gains weight and keeps improving his skills, the athletic Leonard could one day make a living as a shooting guard.

Leonard had a similar assessment of his game.

"I think if I get more consistent on my three-point shot and get stronger, the skies the limit,” he said.

Leonard, who has a 2.5 GPA, averaged 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game last season.