Last season when PHH Prep 6-foot-7, 190-pound senior wing prospect JT Elder had verbally committed to Portland State University, I had mentioned that Portland State was getting a "steal." After not having the opportunity to sign with Portland State last season, Elder was forced to re-open his college recruitment and take a post-graduate year. As a result, Elder has flourished this fall and, this week, earned a nice offer from DePaul University.
It was thought that Elder was heading to Portland State last year, but after an off the court issue, Elder was forced to re-open his college recruitment and look at other options for college. Elder has played strong in several events this fall, and with many college coaches in town this week for recruiting purposes, Elder caught the attention of the DePaul coaching staff - enough to earn a nice offer from their program.
After Elder's previous commitment to Portland State, I was very impressed with his ability to play the game. At his height and skill level, combined with superb athleticism, Elder is a true talent. Very skilled, Elder is a left-hander with a nice motor and an ability to score inside and out, while possessing a very nice mid-range game as well. He is very good in the open floor and has excellent versatility as a player.
A native of Chicago, receiving an offer from DePaul is big for Elder, who has expressed that he would like to return home for college. The opportunity for Elder to go back to his native city and play in the Big East Conference, will be a tough option to overcome for him, although he could now receive more offers from other programs, since DePaul jumped on the bandwagon early. DePaul is Elder first new offer and will be a great opportunity for him.
Elder will play this season for the PHH Prep post-graduate team, which is absolutely loaded with talent, and will play against other post-grad teams, as well as junior colleges this season. Elder will be prepared nicely for the collegiate level after another year as a post-grad.
I will continue to follow this recruitment closely, and bring you updates as they continue to develop.
