John Calipari's jump from Memphis to Kentucky has caused significant "ripples" in the late recruiting pond... ripples that could stretch from Lexington to Lawrence, Kansas to College Park, Maryland to Queens, New York.
Here's a look at some of the top recruits, and how Cal's move could impact their college choices:
- Xavier Henry: The guard many consider the top player in the class of 2009 committed to play for Cal at Memphis -- but left himself an out if Cal jumped to a new job. There was some conjecture that he'd follow Calipari to Kentucky, but now it seems he'll head for Kansas, where his father and mother both played as collegians. His older brother, C.J., a New York Yankee farmhand and basketball walk-on at Memphis -- may also make the jump to the Jayhawks.
- DeMarcus Cousins: Another McDonald's All American, Cousins verbally committed to Calipari in March, but last week told reporters "I'm not sure yet if I am going to go to Memphis." Cousins could follow Cal to Kentucky or look elsewhere. Before Memphis, Cousins was most closely associated with UAB.
- Lance Stephenson: Brooklyn's Stephenson was supposed to announce his college decision at the McDonald's game last week, but the press conference was postponed. Rumor has it that "Born Ready" was going to announce his intention to play for Kansas... but with Henry potentially available, Stephenson's spot at KU may now be occupied. If Henry opts for Kansas, Stephenson is expected to choose between Maryland and St. John's.
- John Wall: One of the top point guards in the class of 2009, Wall is still uncommitted -- and would fit an obvious area of need for John Calipari's new team. Calipari's old team was one Wall's strongest suitors, but NC State, Duke, Miami, and Kansas have been involved. Baylor was thought to be the leading contender at one time -- one of Wall's AAU coaches is part of the staff there.
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