By SAM LANCE
CHICAGO — Class of 2023 three-star small forward Asa Thomas is now finished with the recruitment process after committing to Clemson earlier this month. While he said it’s nice to have his commitment out of the way, the process was certainly fulfilling.
“I really enjoyed meeting a lot of great people, a lot of different coaches, players,” Thomas said. “I’m just grateful for the opportunity to be able to display my skills and for a lot of different schools to reach out and take interest in my game.”
Thomas, the 6-foot-7, 185-pound small forward from Lake Forest High School (IL) and the Illinois Wolves AAU program, said he decided to commit to Clemson because of how much the Tigers prioritized him.
“They came to all of my games,” Thomas said. “They showed me how I fit into the system. I just really enjoyed getting to know them. They have a great staff and have great players on the team as well.”
Thomas continued.
“I’m just really excited to get down there and start working with the guys. I can’t wait to play in the ACC, play in a great conference, go to all different nice venues that they play at. It’s just going to be an awesome, fun experience.”
The small forward is the No. 201 ranked player nationally by 247Sports and No. 7 player in the state of Illinois. Thomas gives Clemson its first commitment in the class of 2023.
Thomas said the coaches he established close relationships with include associate head coach Billy Donlon and head coach Brad Brownell.
“Coach Brownell is from my area,” Thomas said. “He went to Northbrook, which is near Lake Forest. So we have Chicago ties there. It’s been great to get to know him.”
Thomas describes his game as versatile. He noted he can guard multiple positions and bring the ball up the court as a wing player.
“I’m taller than a lot of wings,” Thomas said. “I think I can shoot it better than most people. I’m a pretty knockdown shooter. I distribute it well and make others around me better.”
Thomas said his main goal now is winning a state championship.
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