syracuse.com
DaJaun Coleman lived up to the hype last night at the Zebra Classic, a showcase for Central New York hoops stars. The Jamesville-Dewitt High School big man looked imposing on the offensive end, hammering home six dunks and scoring at will in the post. The 6’9″ center displayed an array of pivot moves using power dribbles and even a few scoop shots under the basket. Coleman‚Äôs talent left no doubt about why he is the #2 prospect in the ESPNU 100 for the class of 2012.
The Fizz has been tracking the CNY big man for nearly two years now. Even in an All-Star game with plenty of talent, it was clear on the court this was DaJuan and everybody else. He will almost certainly follow current Syracuse commits Syracuse commits Michael Carter-Williams and Rakeem Christmas and play in the McDonalds All-American Game next year.
- Listen to the FizzCast as we dissect the odds Coleman will join SU (17:00 mark)
Of course, the more pressing question in the mind of Syracuse fans is will he follow in the footsteps of former J-D stars Brandon Triche and Andy Rautins to the Hill? Coleman says he is in no hurry to make that decision.
“I’m going to wait until about midway through my senior year. Not until after I take my official visits.”
Coleman refused to reveal any favorite in the race for his services. He instead talked about keeping his options open and making all five of his official visits.
Coleman also spoke about having Kentucky coach John Calipari come watch one of his games.
“It was real cool after he just won his game beating West Virginia (in the second round of the NCAA Tournament) flying out to my game. It was real nice.”
Coleman touched on his relationship with Jim Boeheim and the Syracuse coaching staff as well.
“I have had a real good connection with them ever since I was in the eighth grade.”
It’s no wonder why elite programs like Syracuse, Kentucky and others are after him. He scored 22 points and grabbed 7 rebounds last night. If there is a weakness to Coleman’s game it’s from the line, where he struggled going only 4 for 12, though his stroke looked better than that. At times, Coleman also seemed to be going through the motions, jogging rather than ran the floor. Coleman didn‚Äôt always hustle for rebounds and allowed some easy baskets inside, as well. Despite the sporadic effort, it was clear that Coleman is a force down low.
The most impressive thing about Coleman is simply how physically imposing he is. At 6‚Äô9″, he looked massive, towering over everybody in sight. He is very wide as well and uses his size extremely well in the paint. His physical attributes are superb with quick hands, nimble feet and great overall quickness for his size. There is no question about his potential and he’s an absolute specimen, especially as a high school junior.
Coleman is understandably coveted by Syracuse fans. Yet despite all the talk about his connection to the Orange, he insists he feels no pressure to choose SU. The Per’fesser, his staff, and maybe even Rautins and Triche, will need all of their powers of persuasion to get DaJuan to the Dome for the ’12-’13 season.
Posted: Alex Plavin
