By CHIP MILLER
JaQuan Lyle, a four-star shooting guard from Bradenton (FL) IMG Academy, committed to The Ohio State University Thursday night following Ohio State’s 80-56 victory over Maryland.
“JaQuan is big, tough, physical lead guard who can score and pass,” IMG coach John Mahoney told SNY.tv. “His passing and court vision are underrated. He is a perfect fit for the Big Ten style of play.”
With D’Angelo Russell now projected as the No. 2 pick in the NBA Draft by DraftExpress.com, Lyle could come in and get immediate playing time with the Buckeyes. He’s averaging 18 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 2.5 steals at IMG.
“He has the potential to be special,” Mahoney told SNY.tv. “He is learning how to work hard every day and what it takes to be very good. He has been working on his shot which has improved.”
The 6-foot-5 Lyle originally committed to Rick Pitino and Louisville in June of 2013, reopening his recruitment in September and eventually landing at Oregon. But Lyle was not admitted to Oregon and opted to spend a post-graduated year at IMG.
Lyle is Ohio State’s fifth commitment in the 2015 class, joining four-star shooting guard Austin Grandstaff, four-star center Daniel Giddens, four-star point guard A.J. Harris and four-star small forward Mickey Mitchell.
When it comes to talent, 247Sports Director of Basketball Scouting Jerry Meyer says there’s no shortage of it in Lyle.
“There is no denying the talent of JaQuan Lyle,” he said of the newest Buckeye. “He is a deft passer, a three level scorer and a formidable rebounder when he plays with energy. The key for Lyle is being in shape and mentally focused.
“There have been times when his play has suffered because of a lack of conditioning and focus,” Meyer went on to say. “When he is in shape and focused on the task, he is an extremely gifted player who can impact the game in a variety of ways.”
Lyles is the 38th overall ranked player in the 247Sports 2015 Composite Player rankings and the No. 8 shooting guard.
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