Wakes Skeen was really keen

After his verbal commitment to Wake Forest last month, 6-foot-8 junior forward Jamie Skeen was ready to impress his future college fans in the North Carolina 4A Western Regional semifinals last night at Lawrence Joel Coliseum in Winston-Salem. And, what an impression he made. With Coach Skip Prosser and many Wake Forest players in attendance, Skeen hit 13-15 field goals for 35 points. For more details click to Rivals.com Ultimate Ticket.

Call it a "coming out party" or a "preview of coming attractions," but last night 6-foot-8 combo forward Jamie Skeen showcased the athletic abilities and basketball skills that make him the No. 1 rated prospect in the Class of 2006 in North Carolina. And, Wake Forest coach Skip Prosser had a big smile, since once again he "got the jump on his in-state ACC rivals by getting an early commitment from the top prospect in the Tar Heel State.

Skeen shot 9-9 in the first half, and made 13 of 15 field goal attempts for 35 points, 6 rebounds, 6 blocks, and 3 steals to power his Huntersville North Mecklenburg High School team to a 89-65 win over Winston-Salem North Forsyth High School in the 4A regional semifinals. Skeen told Charlotte Observer writer Langston Wertz, "This was my first game on the Deacons' home floor, and I was hyped up."

According to Wertz, Wake Forest player Justin Gray, came into North Mecklenburg's locker room, slapped Skeen's hand and said, "I liked your game," with a big grin on his face.

North Mecklenburg teammate, 6-foot-1 senior guard Michael Laney, said, "Jamie knew that he had to put on a show and let people know what they're going to be getting in two years. The monster was unleashed tonight."

Other standouts for North Mecklenburg High were 6-foot-6 senior forward Ben Skywall with 16 points, and Michael Laney with 14 points.

North Forsyth was led by Appalachian State signee, 6-foot-5 wing forward Jarvis Jackson with 18 points.

North Mecklenburg High School (29-1) will play cross-county rival West Charlotte High School (23-7) in Lawrence Joel Coliseum at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday for the Western regional 4A championship.