Brian Flinn:
Future150 National Recruiting Analyst. Covering high school basketball nationally.
Houston, TX (Future150) -- One of the more impressive players out of the Houston area this summer was 2015 SG Christian James of Bellaire High School. The 6’4” James put on a show nearly every time he stepped on the court for the Houston Hoops 16U (Woods) squad.
In July, Christian got the chance to play up on the Houston Hoops 17U team in Las Vegas. Many wondered how he would handle the pressure of playing up, but he did not disappoint. Numerous coaches who were in attendance came away impressed with his ability to score the ball, defend, and they were blown away by his athleticism.
Shortly after the event, he received offers from both the University of Houston and the Creighton University.
Fresh off a season-opening win over St. John’s and Justise Winslow, James received his third official offer, this one coming from New Mexico. The Lobos, who recently received a commitment from his AAU teammate Jordan Hunter, would love nothing more than to see those two continue their careers together in Albuquerque.
However, James is taking his time and weighing his options.
“I am in no rush. I want to take my time and weigh out my options. Do my homework. All of the schools who have offered are great schools, but I do not want to rush into a decision,” James commented.
This approach seems to be the right way to go. Not many players have seen their stock rise as fast as James. He is a dynamic player that will bring added value to the school of his choice.
“The main thing I will bring is leadership. I want to help get my team in the right spot. Put pressure on the defense. Open things up for my teammates. Help make plays on both offense and defense. But most of all help put the ball in the basket.”
Everyone is different in regards to what they look for in a school, but James has a clear vision of what he is looking for before he makes his decision.
“First and foremost, I am looking for a good education. I am looking for a school that I know will help prepare me for life after basketball. Playing time is also important. I feel like I can help my team in so many different ways, I want to be on the court. I also am looking for a staff that is genuine. I don’t want to be sold a school, I want to be a part of a family; A family with rich tradition and a great fan base.”
As of now, Christian lists Oregon, Maryland, Texas, New Mexico, Texas A&M, Creighton, and Houston as his favorites. But as noted earlier, do not expect a decision anytime soon. We fully expect his offer list to grow.
Stay with Future150.com for updates on James and his Bellaire High School teammates as they work towards a Texas state title this year.
Comments:
This kid is special! He had 22 points in that win the other night. Can’t wait to see him blow up this year. Houston is where it is at!
It appears that Mr. James has a criteria that outlines the New Mexico Lobos. He and Mr. Hunter will provide a very bright future for the school that will give every opportunity to succeed both on the court and in the class room. UNM has the very best academic advisors that insure that the student athletes excel. Come join the successful UNM basketball program. “OUR TIME HAS COME”!