Wingate narrows list to two school

One of the top remaining uncommitted big men in the nation, Major Wingate from North Gwinett High School in Beauford (GA) has narrowed his list down to his top two schools and plans to make a commitment on Wednesday.

“Right now only Clemson and Tennessee are being considered. These are the two teams that I will choose from,” Wingate said. “I hope to have my decision done Wednesday. To be honest I am ready to get it over with and I believe these schools are my best options.”

Clemson University received Wingate, who is rated a 4-star prospect and the 10th best center in the nations by RivalsHoops.com, for his first official visit and they quickly emerged as one of his favorites.

“The trip to Clemson really went well. I like their campus, it’s small but I had fun and everyone was friendly,” he said. “Their academic reputation is strong and that impressed me plus they are an ACC school.”

While on campus Wingate, 6-foot-9, 245-pounds, was also impressed by the Clemson coaching staff and players.

“I really like the coaches a lot, they are super nice. Also I have known Coach (Darrell) Willis for a while and he is just one of those guys who I feel real comfortable around and that I can talk to about anything,” Wingate said. “They are also really working on improving their facilities and I could tell all of the players were excited about the direction of the program.”

Wingate’s final official visit was taken two weekends ago when he visited Buzz Peterson and the Tennessee Volunteers in Knoxville.

“I am used to a small town environment but Knoxville was bigger but had that same small town, country feel to it, I really had a great time,” he said. “Their arena is huge and really nice. The campus was impressive.”

“I really like Coach Peterson. He is a good coach and I feel like he has been straight up with me and told me the truth. The whole staff has been that way,” Wingate said. “Plus the current players really made me feel welcome and told me how much they liked being there.”

Wingate indicated that the time he was glad that the recruiting process for him was coming to a close.

“You know it hasn’t been easy the last three or four years. I’ve had a lot of eyes on me and I’m glad it’s about to be over,” he said. “But at the same time I really have been appreciative of the opportunities that have been opened up for me.”