Westbrook finds new home

It didn't take four-star prospect Lawrence Westbrook long to find a new home after being released by Iowa State from his letter-of-intent. The 6-foot, 193-pound combo guard from Chandler, Ariz., will now play his college ball in the Big Ten.

After a weekend visit to Minnesota, Westbrook committed to the Golden Gophers.

"Lawrence had a chance to play with 90 percent of the players this weekend," said Westbrook's father Larry Westbrook. "When he saw it was a good fit, he committed.

"He is very excited about going to Minnesota. He's been playing ball every since he was a little child, and he's always dreamed of playing on the national level. Now he has a chance to make an impact for a big time program."

Always a deadly scorer, Westbrook has improved his overall game this year while playing at Winchendon Prep.

"His year at Winchendon helped Lawrence a lot," said Mr. Westbrook. "He learned all about team defense, and he has improved his mid-range game."

Once an Iowa State signee, Westbrook asked for his release when he realized that Coach McDermott was recruiting other players at his position.

"We had a visit with Coach McDermott, and he wanted to honor Lawrence's scholarship," said Mr. Westbrook. "But when we realized that he still intended to recruit players he was already recruiting to Iowa State that played the same position as Lawrence, we decided it was best to look elsewhere. But there are not any hard feelings between us and Coach McDermott."

Westbrook averaged 21 points and 7 assists per game this season.

Lawrence Westbrook scouting report:

Westbrook is a powerfully built combo guard who can score in a variety of ways. He can create separation in almost any situation and can also knock down the open long ball. Primarily a scorer, Westbrook is working to improve his ability to create for teammates, defend and rebound.