By JACOB POLACHECK
Mason Manning, the 6-foot-1, 170-pound point guard from First Love (PA) Christian Academy, is being prioritized by six schools.
Manning said Boise State, West Virginia N.C. State, Auburn, Pitt and Georgia Tech are prioritizing him.
He broke down each school:
Boise State: “They like my game and are interested in building a relationship.”
West Virginia: “Same as Boise State. They were recruiting my adopted brother [Emmanuel Okpomo] so they started recruiting me.”
N.C. State: “How they develop their guards. Most of their guards are explosive and skilled. I want to be able to translate some of that into my own game.”
Auburn: “They’re basically Guard U. It just speaks for itself really.”
Pitt: “They built that early relationship and are consistent.”
Georgia Tech: “They’re consistent too. I don’t know how to explain it. They’re consistent, always talking to me and building that relationship as well.”
Manning had a call with Ohio State earlier in the week.
“We just talked about the NBA, the NBA finals and stuff,” he said. “We talked about how you have to transition your game to different levels of basketball.
“They’re in the Big Ten. They have very skilled guards and push to get the most out of their players. They want to have a family and a brotherhood.”
Manning is also expected to have a call with Mississippi State either this upcoming weekend or early next week.
“I have a lot of family in Mississippi and stuff like that,” he said. “Some of the people I workout with have played at Mississippi State and are alumni.
“They’re gritty. Their guards are tough and want to get down and dirty on defense.”
Michigan has also shown slight interest, Manning says.
Given that Manning is unable to take official visits due to the coronavirus pandemic, he says his relationships are a key factor.
“My relationship with the coaches and how they would push me if I were to go there,” he said. “How can they add to my basketball IQ and help improve my game?”
Ranked by 247Sports.com as the No. 21 point guard in the Class of 2021, Manning has emerged as one of the most highly-touted guards in his class.
“Mason is a dynamic guard, with an exceptional basketball IQ,” First Love head coach Khayree Wilson said. “He plays with a hunger unmatched. I’m very excited for this season and the chance to watch him continue to grow.
“I have no doubt in my mind that he is one of the top guards in his class and one of the best point guards in the ’22 class. He is a pleasure to coach and a joy to be around.”
At the point guard position, Manning likes to play a fast-paced game.
“I make plays and can create my own shot,” he said. “I can shoot and handle the ball well. I’m working on my athleticism.”
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