UNLV scores big with Bennett
Things have been building in Las Vegas and it all came to a head on Saturday. The nation's top remaining prospect in the class of 2012, Anthony Bennett made his college choice.
The No. 7 player in the nation, the 6-foot-7 combo forward from Henderson (Nev.) Findlay Prep announced Saturday that he will play his college ball for UNLV.
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A native of Canada, Bennett cited the love he's gotten in Las Vegas and the presence of a good friend as huge factors in his decision.
"I felt like I've been real cool with the coaches and players," Bennett told Rivals.com. "I've been here for two years now so I feel I have a lot of people supporting me."
"Also, just the thought of playing with my boy Khem Birch in college is going to be crazy."
A physically imposing forward with athleticism and strength, Bennett's game is one that will remind Rebels fans of former great Larry Johnson. The five-star just wants to fit in.
"Trying to be one of the leaders on the team," said Bennett of what he's looking to bring to the table. "Rebounding, scoring inside and out and helping my teammates get open."
Even though he wasn't even alive during the UNLV glory years, Bennett is well aware of the program's history and wants to be part of returning the program to the top.
"Everyone has been telling me if I committed UNLV will be on the map again," said Bennett. "Just thinking about that has me excited for next season and hopefully we go far in the tournament and maybe win it all."
By adding Bennett to a class that already includes No. 38 Katin Reinhardt, No. 144 Demetris Morant and three-star point guard DaQuan Cook, UNLV's class will jump into the national top 15 for 2012 recruiting classes.