CornellUFan
newbie
Posts: 37
Reg: 12-12-04
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03-19-05 12:49 PM - Post#6911
Jason Battle is said by local Wilmington, N.C. fans on other boards to have a good Basketball IQ and is fundamentally sound. UNCW was recruiting him early on in his career at New Hanover, where he dreamed of playing someday (as reported in local papers), but the Seahawks pulled out of recruiting him earlier this year. They said that as a 6'4" guard, he lacked in perimeter shooting skills. This past summer, Battle reportedly shot 500 three pointers a day to improve his shooting. His senior year did not prove to be his breakout perimeter year, but he did improve enough to attract some recruiters. The absence of three point bombs aside, Battle handles the ball really well for a two-guard, and is more of an athletic slasher. He can use his right or left hand when dribbling so he can be difficult to defend. He also rebounds well for his size and is very active on the defensive end.
The Wilmington Star reported not too long ago that Battle committed to Cornell and was attempting to get his close friend Robert Burris, a 6'8" center from Michael Jordan's alma mater Laney H.S. (also in Wilmington) to come with him to Ithaca. However, rumors have surfaced on more than one message board that Battle "is considering rescinding" his commitment to Cornell and would instead play for a school closer to home in the south. Burris also reportedly has retracted interest in Cornell. Cornell assistant Paul Fortier was down in Wilmington earlier this year to watch Battle and Burris play one another.
Whether the rumor about Battle is true or not, Battle certainly has not pulled out of the Cornell commitment yet. Again, this is only a rumor and does not have a sufficient basis. No newspaper has reported the story. But, don't be surprised if Battle does not show up in Ithaca next year and instead lands on a Big South or Southern Conference roster. He may even find a way to land up on a UNCW roster as a walk-on. But that is just speculation.
If Battle pulls out... it would be another devastating blow to what has been a disappointing recruiting season for the Big Red, easily the weekest in Donahue's tenure. Quite surprising considering Cornell's continual improvement and increased student support.
SCHEDULING NOTES
Cornell reportedly has a home game next year against St. Bonaventure.
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