Kentucky, Arizona, UConn, St. John’s and Temple are in the mix for Greek 7-footer Georgios Papagiannis, according to a report from SDNA.gr.
SNY.tv previously reported that St. John’s is recruiting the prospect for 2015-16, and sources said several of the schools mentioned above plan to go over and see Papagiannis in Athens soon.
The 7-foot-1 Papagiannis signed a multi-year deal with Greek champion Panathinaikos but reportedly has the option to return to the States this summer. He has only played 23 minutes with he pro team this season, but starts for the club team when he isn’t with the pro team.
During his time at Westtown (Pa.), head coach Seth Berger told SNY.tv that Papagiannis “is a top five, one-and-done, 2016 pick.”
Berger added: “He’s a really unique player. He’s 7-1, 250 pounds. Incredibly coordinated. Jumps well, shoots well, dribbles well, passes well, has really good post work and he just turned 16 in July.”
Berger continued: “Usually kids this size, this young, can’t run up and down the court. Forget he catches alley-oops and can reverse them. He’s got a super-high basketball IQ, incredibly motivated. And he’s really smart.
“His weaknesses are on the defensive end he needs to be able to grab rebounds out of his area and he needs to stay out of foul trouble. But when he wants to, he’s a great rim protector.”
