Jordan Williams, forward for Torrington High School in Connecticut, and top 100 player in the class of 2009 nationally, has committed to Maryland, according to Zagsblog. St. John's fans were excited to see him in Queens. Williams cites the criminal justice program at Maryland. He had some nice words for the St. John's coaching staff:
"St. John’s, I love the coaching staff," he said. "They’re great people. I liked them a lot. It was a really tough decision but I felt that Maryland would be the best place."
But in the end, liking the staff isn't the deciding factor. The St. John's fans, of course, will bring up how Norm couldn't seal the deal and all, but this is just a recruit the team lost out on. Players aren't going to commit until a winning product is put out there. And if a winning product isn't on the court this year (more on that tomorrow), those loud calls for the coaching staff's removal might get loud enough that the administration will take action.
I'm sure the coaching situation and results were a factor, but so was playing time. I thought that any player who wants playing time - which is what Norm Roberts used to say was his biggest selling point - was going to leave St. John's at a distinct disadvantage with 7 sophomores and at least one freshman demanding playing time.
Well, the Terrapin fans are really happy about Coach Gary Williams' newfound dedication to bringing in talent that tries to match the rest of the ACC.