For the first time in recent memory, a new Wildcat will be joining the squad as a transfer into the program.
Rising sophomore Taylor King, transferred after his freshman year at Duke following the NCAA Tournament in March 2008. The transfer became official a few weeks later.
King comes to the Main Line from California powerhouse Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana.
He burst onto the scene in the Summer of 2003 when he verbally committed to UCLA before playing a single minute of high school basketball. He reopened his recruiting in the spring of 2005 and signed with Duke in January 2006 after considering Villanova and Gonzaga.
At Mater Dei, King He was named Mr. Basketball in the state after finishing a high school career 3,214 points and grabbing 1,224 rebounds. The 6'6" small forward was a 2007 Mc Donald's All American and 2nd Team Parade All American.
In 2006 he was on the US U18 National Team and averaged 12 points in the '06 FIBA Americas U18 Championship.
In his single season in Durham, Taylor played in all 34 games for the Blue Devils. He averaged 5.5 points a game along with 2 rebounds in under 10 minutes a game. He scored 15 or more points in 6 games and had a 37.7% range from behind the arc for the season.
The lefty is lethal from distance, and possesses 3-Point range that extends past the NBA's line. Teaming up with Corey Stokes this year should cast fear in many opponents' eyes as their defenders need to guard up to 23 feet away from the basket.
The scouting knocks against King are that he is not athletic and not a good defender. Being able to practice with the rest of the 'Nova squad during the 2008-09 Season should help Taylor out immensely. During the Wildcats' Final Four run he has a full season to condition his physique as well as learn jay Wright's defensive scheme(s).
Having that year of experience on the Main Line can't be overlooked as Taylor will be able to contribute off the bench at the 3 or 4 positions when needed in the Villanova System.
Taylor is the lone member of Villanova's Class of 2012.
[youtube DA9vaJMG-Gk]