Former Mississippi State guard Malik Newman, who made an official recruiting visit to Kansas University on Tuesday and Wednesday, is expected to announce his transfer destination today.
CBSsports.com’s Jon Rothstein reports that the 6-foot-3 combo guard “is down to Kansas and Western Kentucky.” Newman also has visited Oregon, North Carolina State and Miami in recent weeks.
Of the visit to KU, Newman’s dad, Horatio Webster, told Jayhawkslant.com: “We had never seen the facilities before, and that blew us away. I didn’t realize that the facilities were that nice. To see it for yourself, that was an experience in itself.” Newman will practice but not play in games next season and be eligible in 2017-18.
“Coach (Bill) Self just said that he would be allowed to make plays,” Webster said of his son who averaged 11.3 points, 2.9 boards and 2.2 assists his one season at Mississippi State. “He would put the ball in his hands, but the main thing is, coach Self will allow Malik to use his skill set. Malik will be allowed to go make plays if he decides to attend Kansas.”
Of likely announcing today, Webster said: “The process has been crazy and he’s ready to get it over with. He’s ready to get it over with and get to summer school.”
Ellis representing Ellis: Former KU forward Perry Ellis has signed an endorsement deal with the clothing company, “Perry Ellis,” Ellis announced on Twitter.
“Can’t wait to get to work! Excited to start the next chapter wearing @perryellis,” Ellis of the Dallas Mavericks wrote.
In confirming the deal with ESPN.com, Lisa Kauffman, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Perry Ellis the company said: “Perry Ellis (the basketball player) has signed an endorsement deal with Perry Ellis (the menswear brand). We are very excited about the association — beyond the clear connection to our namesake designer — this playful partnership stays true to the fun, lighthearted nature of the brand.”
Ballock, Jackson at camp: Eudora High senior-to-be Mitch Ballock is one of 23 high school guards attending the Steph Curry camp in the Bay Area. KU freshman Josh Jackson is one of 10 college counselors. Ballock has orally committed to play basketball at Creighton.
Ferguson to turn pro now: Former KU recruiting target Terrance Ferguson, who ultimately chose Arizona, will play pro ball overseas next season instead of at U of A, Arizona coach Sean Miller announced. Ferguson is a 6-6 guard who attended Dallas Advanced Prep, formerly Prime Prep which has had some players with eligibility problems. He’s ranked No. 14 in the recruiting Class of 2016 by Rivals.com.
“Terrance Ferguson informed me earlier this week that he has decided to pursue professional opportunities instead of attending the University of Arizona this fall,” Miller said. “I hope this next chapter of his basketball career goes well, and his goal of one day becoming an NBA player is realized.”
