clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Illinois Basketball Recruiting: Illini Commit Jalen James Re-Opens College Choice

Gurad Jalen James is re-opening his recruitment after originally committing to the Illini.

March 10, 2012; Cleveland, OH, USA: Ohio Bobcats head coach John Groce during the first half against the Akron Zips of the finals of the 2012 MAC Tournament at Quicken Loans Arena.  Mandatory Credit: Eric P. Mull-USPRESSWIRE
March 10, 2012; Cleveland, OH, USA: Ohio Bobcats head coach John Groce during the first half against the Akron Zips of the finals of the 2012 MAC Tournament at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Eric P. Mull-USPRESSWIRE

The Illini Fighting Illini didn't get their first choice for a new head basketball coach, but John Groce sure appeared competent enough in leading the Ohio Bobcats to the Sweet 16 last season. While Groce might know his X's and O's, there's a possibility he may struggle to find footing in Chicago's often grimy recruiting scene.

On Wednesday night, word circulated that incoming high school senior Jalen James, of nearby La Lumiere School, is set to reopen his recruitment.

James is a 6-foot-3 guard who earned three out of five stars from ESPN. He was tweeting up a storm after the news broke last night. You can follow him at @Dream_Chasing3.

For more on this story, stay with SB Nation Chicago. For more on the Illini check out Hail to the Orange. For more news and notes around the country, stick with SB Nation's college basketball news hub.