Washington State Picks Up JUCO Center
Washington State University has dipped into the junior college ranks and secured a commitment this fall from 6-11 center Justin Kordsmeier of North Arkansas C.C. in Harrison, Ark.
JUCO Junction/Rivalshoops.com has confirmed this commitment with North Arkansas Head Coach Jerry Thomason.
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Thomason said that Washington State contacted him recently and plans to send the national letter of intent papers soon so that Kordsmeier can ink with the Cougars next week.
The NCAA's early (or fall) signing period kicks off next Wednesday, Nov. 14 and runs through the 21st.
Earlier this fall, Kordsmeier took an official visit to Washington State. Thomason said that Utah State, Middle Tennessee State, Arkansas State, Southwest Texas State and North Texas had also expressed a serious interest in his sophomore big man.
Kordsmeier averaged 17 points and eight rebounds per game last season for the Pioneers.
"He has good hands and great touch -- he's a very good shooter," Thomason said. "He runs the floor adequately well for a big guy, but he needs to work on dexterity, quickness and athleticism."
Kordsmeier, who hails from Springdale, Ark., actually started out at Westark J.C. in Arkansas three years ago.
According to Thomason, Kordsmeier dropped out of Westark and sat out the 1999-2000 campaign. He arrived at North Arkansas last fall out of shape, weighing in at 280 pounds.
With only seven players on its roster last year, the Pioneers had to depend heavily on Kordsmeier, who has shed 20 pounds since last season.
With several players back from last year's squad and a few newcomers, Thomason hopes that Kordsmeier will enjoy a big campaign in 2001-2002.
JUCO Junction/Rivalshoops.com hopes to catch Kordsmeier and Northark in action this winter. If we are able to, we will provide an update on Kordsmeier at that time, so stay tuned!