Originally published at Scout.com
One of the most important recruits in the country picked Super Bowl Sunday to make his decision. Five-star class of 2013 prospect Jermaine Lawrence out of Sparta (NJ) Pope John picked the Cincinnati Bearcats.
Lawrence’s senior season has been riddled with injuries, but schools from all over were still very interested in the five-star forward. In the end Cincinnati, St. John’s, and UNLV all made a big push for Lawrence, but Mick Cronin and assistant Darren Savino were able to land the prospect after a long recruitment.
Lawrence, who is ranked No. 19 in the country, is a versatile 6-foot-9 forward who could play either on the wing or inside. What makes Lawrence so dynamic is the fact that he is not only an excellent three point shooter, but he is athletic, and a good rebounder.
Cincinnati put in a ton of work with Lawrence, had an excellent official visit, and then Lawrence announced on Sunday his decision to pick the Bearcats.
This is Cincinnati’s fifth commitment in the class and clearly its biggest. Lawrence is joined by three-star prospects Kevin Johnson, Troy Caupain, and Deshaun Morman. Also post prospect Jamaree Strickland is in the fold for Cronin and his staff.
