UCLA, DePaul pursue 2018 big man for April signing period
NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Kevin Zhang came to the U.S. from China as a freshman in high school seeking a college basketball scholarship. It took until his senior year, but his recruitment is finally heating up.
Zhang, a skilled 6-foot-9 power forward, is being targeted by UCLA and DePaul as a potential spring addition to their 2018 recruiting classes.
Zhang attended basketball powerhouse La Lumiere in Indiana for three years before transferring to Montverde (Fla.) CBD for his senior season.
During his time at the National Prep Showcase last weekend, Zhang displayed everything that a high-major coach is looking for in a new era power forward. Capable of hitting perimeter jumpers with consistency, Zhang can create his own shot, and he is athletic and skilled enough to lead and finish the break,
And while plenty of power conferences have reached out, DePaul and UCLA have a leg up on the competition. DePaul assistant Shane Heirman coached Zhang when they were both at La Lumiere.
IN HIS OWN WORDS
UCLA: “I might visit there some time next year. The offer is a big opportunity for me to show other people my abilities. It is nice that it is a little closer to home with a big Chinese population. I heard they have a very nice campus.”
DePaul: “I might set a visit there. Coach Heirman is texting me about getting me down there. I have been there one time before for a practice when I was at La Lumiere. They have some good coaches.”
WHAT'S NEXT
A commitment is not expected any time soon from Zhang, as he will take his college recruitment into the winter and spring months as he will remain one of the top unsigned prospects from the 2018 class. DePaul and UCLA will likely host Zhang for an official visit once the calendar flips over.
RIVALS REACTION
Zhang is a vastly improved prospect who has a penchant for making perimeter jump shots and is also athletic at the basket. Expect for a slew of others to call Zhang this winter. However, it looks as if UCLA and DePaul sit as the heavy favorites and a commitment to either should not come as a surprise.
