Two visits set for 2018 wing Luis Rodriguez
PROVIDENCE – One of the top available wing prospects in the 2018 class, three-star wing Luis Rodriguez has begun to settle into an escalating recruitment. Scheduled to visit UMass today, February 3, the Woodstock Academy product discussed his feelings on the Atlantic 10 program and the Big Ten program that he will see next.
A 6-foot-6 small forward prospect that can be immediately relied upon for his defensive abilities next year, Rodriguez has seen his recruitment pick-up lately as college programs begin to prioritize. “So far I have lined up visits to UMass and Illinois. I am going to UMass on February 3, I believe it is an unofficial visit, and I am going to Illinois on February 10 officially. That will be my first official visit,” he said. “I have also been talking to Butler, Rutgers, South Carolina, off and on, and a few others.”
IN HIS OWN WORDS
UMass: “They basically just need a 6-foot-6 guard that can come in and play both sides of the floor, create offense and play my game. I have caught a few games; I saw them play Fordham but I am going to see more about what they’re about this weekend.”
Illinois: “They just want for me to come and defend. They want a guy that can play defense, create offense, score the ball and just be big, long and athletic out there.”
WHAT'S NEXT?
Headed to UMass today, the Minutemen will do their best to impress the versatile wing that is Luis Rodriguez. Next weekend, the California native will head to Illinois for his first visit coming in the official variety.
When it comes to a commitment, things do not seem imminent. “I just want to see what comes along, take some visits and go from there, then I will make my decision,” he said. “Being here on the east coast has been good and different. I don’t think location is big for me but rather it is about what is going to fit and if I am going to be able to play.”
RIVALS' REACTION
A talented, college-ready wing that can score off of the drive to the basket but is most valued for his defensive abilities, Rodriguez tracks as a solid late year pick-up for UMass or Illinois.
However, it does look as if he is not yet ready to end his recruitment as a number of other college programs have begun to enter the mix.