IrishIllustrated.com - USF hosts Mayfield on visit this weekend

October 12, 2005

USF's search for post players for its recruiting class of 2006 could take a big jump forward if the Bulls are able to convince Texas prospect Jeremy Mayfield that Tampa is the place for him when the versatile 6-foot-10 talent makes an official campus visit this weekend.

The trip is the second of four for Mayfield. He spent the weekend before last at Oklahoma and will follow his USF visit with jaunts to Texas and Miami on consecutive weeks. For now, the tight-lipped Mayfield is giving no hint as to which way he might be leaning.

"Oklahoma was nice, pretty cool. They showed me a lot of love," he said Tuesday evening. "I like them all. There's no favorite. Everyone is even."

In fact, Mayfield wouldn't even divulge whether or not he was certain to sign during the early period in November. He said that decision will be based on the outcomes of his upcoming trips.

Whoever signs Mayfield figures to get a quality big man with plenty of potential. As a high school senior, Mayfield averaged a double-double (18 points and 10 rebounds). He originally signed with Nevada, but did not meet college eligibility requirements. A four-star prospect ranked No. 52 in the RivalsHoops Top 150, Mayfield is now enrolled at Gulf Shores Academy - a prep school in Houston.

Craig Roberts, Mayfield's AAU coach, said Mayfield brings multiple talents to the floor.

"He's a very skilled big man. He can do some of everything. He can play on the block or out on the floor. If he can learn to play hard night-in and night-out, Jeremy can be as good as anyone," Roberts said.

USF's initial interest in Mayfield came back in April, and he has been courted by head coach Robert McCullum and assistant Greg Gary. Mayfield said his discussions with the staff have centered around their willingness to, "basically give me the freedom to play inside and out."

And according to Roberts, there are two particular things drawing Mayfield's interest toward South Florida.

"Obviously, the opportunity to play in the Big East - against the best - is a big factor. And we really like the work Coach McCullum has done with post players throughout his career. He helps them develop and play to their potential," Roberts said.

FEATURED PRODUCT