UNLV basketball recruiting class grows as Goodman signs
UNLV coach Dave Rice won 26 games in his first year on the job. More important, he continues to win recruiting battles to help ensure the basketball program is even more successful in the future.
Rice announced the signing of Savon Goodman, a 6-foot-6-inch forward from Constitution High School in Philadelphia, on Friday to complete an eight-player recruiting class that ranks among the nation's best.
Goodman, a Parade All-American who averaged 26 points and nine rebounds as a senior, faxed his signed written offer of financial aid to Rice after choosing the Rebels over Pittsburgh and Southern Methodist.
"He's a high-energy guy with a great work ethic," Rice said. "Savon will flourish in our transition system. The thing that excites me the most is he can guard multiple positions."
Rice said Goodman, ranked by Rivals.com as the nation's No. 72 prospect in the class of 2012, has a "huge upside," and others agree.
"Savon is a tremendous athlete with NBA upside," Constitution High coach Rob Moore told SNY.tv. "He chose UNLV as it fits his desire to get up and down the court."
Goodman qualifies academically, but he might not see the court this season. During the recruiting process, Rice made it clear to Goodman that his status could depend on another player's eligibility. Roscoe Smith, a 6-8 forward who transferred from Connecticut on May 25, is waiting for the NCAA to rule on his petition to play in 2012-13 instead of redshirting.
"He knows if Roscoe's waiver is approved by the NCAA, Savon will more than likely redshirt this year," Rice said.
Five-star prospect Anthony Bennett, a 6-8 forward from Findlay Prep, headlines the Rebels' incoming class. ESPN.com and Rivals.com rank Bennett as the nation's No. 7 prospect.
Rice signed three high school players in the fall, including guard Katin Reinhardt of Santa Ana (Calif.) Mater Dei High, 6-9 forward Demetris Morant from Bishop Gorman and point guard Daquan Cook from St. Frances High in Baltimore.
Three transfers - Smith, 6-9 Khem Birch (Pittsburgh) and guard Bryce Dejean-Jones (Southern California) - fill out Rice's eight additions to the roster.
Contact reporter Matt Youmans at myoumans@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2907.
