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News, notes, and any other tidbits about Hoosier recruits and targets
All the positive recruiting momentum was brought to a sudden halt on Wednesday as Bruce Brown left IU at the altar as he ran off toward the allure of South Beach. Now it's time to regroup and focus on who's left in the class of 2016, because there will be some spots to fill. With one scholarship remaining and the potential for up to 3 more depending on how Troy, JBJ, and Thomas Bryant are feeling after this year, there is major work to be done for the Hoosier coaching staff.
First, though, here are some updates on what's already in stock in the Indiana cupboard.
2016 Commits
The positive news of the week, as IU secured a major piece of their frontcourt future in De'Ron Davis. Read more about it here.
Indiana's other 4-star commit finally put the pen to the paper, making his commitment to the Hoosiers an official one. He commemorated the event, in which teammate Miles Bridges also signed with Michigan State, with this tweet:
— Cujo (@ctj_curt) November 16, 2015
On the court, Jones started the year in fine fashion as he filled up the stat sheet with 31 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 steals in a win for Huntington Prep.
The Hoosiers' first 2016 commit, Grant Gelon, also made his pledge official when he signed his LOI on November 11th.
Grant Gelon signs the official letter of intent to Indiana University. pic.twitter.com/fPrf1BwX5p
— CPTV Media (@cptvmedia) November 11, 2015
2016 Targets
Thon Maker 247Composite Ranking: #8 Overall, #2 PF
We all know the deal with Thon. You want him, I want him, everyone wants him. It would appear that Arizona State currently has the edge for his services as they have secured a date for an Official Visit, but with how many twists and turns his recruitment has taken, the most shocking thing that can possibly happen is a low-key, nuanced decision from Thon.
Thon in action: He had 27 points in a 92-89 victory for his Athlete Institute of Sports team, then followed it up with 29 in a 76-72 loss to Sunrise Christian.
Rawle Alkins - 247Composite Ranking: #15 Overall, #3 SG
Described as the best player to come out of NYC since Lance Stephenson, Alkins' recruitment has been a high-octane one that has all the major players involved. Indiana has been in the thick of it all the way through, even getting multiple unofficial visits from Alkins. However, everyone else is interested in him, too. And, as any high school senior is wont to do, Rawle is relishing in the experience of being the apple of everyone's eye. There's no clear cut leader for Alkins, but I would be lying if I told you that Indiana was in the driver's seat.
Rawle in action: Alkins is making an early impression for his new Word of God prep school team. In his first game, he had 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 blocks in an 81-63 victory over Positive Day School. Also, in a loss to Elev8 Academy, the 5-star guard went off for 41 points. Below is a clip of Alkins in early-season action for Word of God:
Rawle Alkins put on today. Real nice outing. pic.twitter.com/WaKYOdcKJk
— Charlie Sides (@charliesides19) November 14, 2015
Alpha Diallo - 247Composite Ranking: #110 Overall, #23 SF
After a strong summer, specifically at the Adidas Nations camp, Diallo has been receiving interest from big-name programs, including Indiana. The Hoosier staff has been in to see Diallo, but a decision is still a ways away. As it stands right now, VCU probably leads the pack for his services.
Alpha in action: Had 15 points and 9 rebounds for Brewster in a 105-81 win over Redemption Christian.
As always, keep up to date with who's who on our Hoosier Recruiting Board