As Kevin Pangos mulled over the offers for his basketball services at major United States colleges, it became a case of what's not to like.
With that in mind, the hotly pursued point guard made a verbal commitment to the Gonzaga University Bulldogs last week, choosing the Spokane, WA school's full scholarship offer ahead of suitors such as UCLA, Michigan, Notre Dame and Boston College. In all, eight schools made their best move from a field of more than 20 suitors.
"Gonzaga for lots of reasons," the 17-year-old Holland Landing resident said, less than 24 hours after his decision became known. "The coaching staff is great and they have a great history of improving point guards. It's an opportunity to play. They're in March Madness a lot. All that contributed to the big picture, but it was just the right fit."
Perhaps the most famous Gonzaga graduate, at least in a basketball sense is John Stockton, who went on to a stellar NBA career. His son, David, is a guard for the Bulldogs.
"That'd be great having one of the best, or maybe the all-time best, point guard right there in my own back yard," said Pangos, who plans to study kinesiology when he begins classes at Gonzaga in 2011.
With his fill of fielding coaches' questions since starting Grade 11 last year, and touted as a top Canadian prospect almost since entering high school, Pangos is relieved he can now focus on studies and his Denison Huskies high school team with less stress. The NCAA's official signing period starts in mid-November.
"It's kind of relaxing after a full year of talking to coaches," said Pangos, who, in addition to high school, plays for the Guelph Phoenix, a men's team of former CIS, NCAA and pro players that plays mainly against Canadian university teams. "It's a big decision and now I can focus on school and basketball. It was enjoyable and I enjoyed going through it.
"It's always been in my mind and my family's mind. But when it happens, it's pretty exciting. It's another step in the basketball process. Now we'll see where it goes for the next step."
The Bulldogs, ranked 11th in pre-season polls and considered a West Coast Conference powerhouse, expect two senior point guards to return for the 2011-12 season. In that case, it is possible Pangos may red-shirt and maintain an extra year of eligibility.
"We're talking about that, but there is also the chance I can play significant minutes," he said.
Considered one of the top Canadian prospects in years, often compared to Phoenix Suns' star Steve Nash, the Grade 12 student understands there is plenty of room for improvement in all phases of his game.
"Everything, in terms of athleticism, shooting," he said. "I'm working on becoming a better one-on-one player and to add new pieces to my game so I can be more unpredictable on the court."
Pangos was named top point guard when he helped Canada claim a bronze medal at this summer's inaugural under-17 championships in Germany, where he averaged 15 points per game.
