Downers South’s Wilbut aims to impress

ST. LOUIS – As the second half of the July evaluation period began on Friday, players from around the area were beginning the feel the heat of the recruiting process.

With the first 10 days of the July period already behind them, many players now have a firm idea of who was watching them and who is actively recruiting them.

With scholarship offers from mid-major programs, but interest from high-major programs, Downers Grove South guard Jerron Wilbut will be one of the most viewed incoming seniors in the area as college coaches will flock to watch him compete with the Illinois Wolves.

As the Wolves took the floor for their opening game on Friday at the Saint Louis Summer Classic, coaches from all Division I levels had their eyes firmly planted on the game, wondering if players like Wilbut would take their programs to the next level.

Seeing so many coaches, coaches who will decide on scholarship offers, can be nerve-wrecking to some. But having already been recruited extensively before, Wilbut knows what to expect from the July “live” period.

“It’s wonderful playing in front of everyone. I just want to go out there and give it my all and play with my team and have fun,” Wilbut said. “I notice (the coaches). I can’t help but to notice when big-time coaches are in the gym. It used to bother me, but not

anymore. I just want to go out and play.”

As Wilbut embarks on the final stretch of AAU ball in his career, he already has a few scholarship offers, but also interest coming from other programs.

“I have an offer from Southern Illinois, Nevada and Missouri State called me and offered me a couple days ago,” Wilbut said. “Virginia Tech gave me a call the other day, Boston College, Washington State (are interested in me). Dayton is really on me and a couple of other schools as well, but my recruitment is going well right now.”

Still, July is not the be-all, end-all of recruiting, and while Jerron recognizes the significance of it all, senior year of the high school season will also be important, and factor into a decision.

“I’m probably going to wait until spring and wait until my high school season is over before I decide on a college,” Wilbut said. “I’m really looking forward to senior year, I have my best friend (Downers South guard Jamal Millison) with me and we’re looking forward to going out there and tearing it up.”

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