Jalen Brunson commits to Villanova

Jalen Brunson, a 6'1" 190 lb. consensus 5-star point guard from Lincolnshire, Ill., has verbally committed to the Villanova Wildcats. Brunson, who plays his high school basketball for Stevenson (IL) and for the Mac Irvin Fire on the AAU circuit, announced his decision at a press conference at his high school on Wednesday afternoon.

"At this point I would like to announce that I will continue my education at Villanova"

Prior to the trip to Villanova, Brunson had visited in-state Illinois, and had planned trips to Temple (his father Rick's alma mater), Michigan State and Purdue. Most had long considered the Owls' the frontrunner due to the family ties, but Jay Wright and his staff were able to convince Jalen - originally from Cherry Hill, NJ - to continue his career in on the Main Line.

On his relationship with Head Coach Jay Wright, Brunson noted, "What he says is what he is going to do. He will push me and make me work for my time."

Brunson is ranked as the #18 player in the country according to the 247Composite Rankings, and the #2 point guard. Rankings-wise, this is the biggest recruiting victory for Jay Wright since Kyle Lowry committed to Villanova in 2003, and the first time Jay Wright has landed what some analysts consider to be the top player at his position since Jason Fraser, also in 2003. With Brunson's addition, Jay Wright may have his most talented point guard ever, which is saying a lot considering the players that has already passed through.

Brunson cannot officially sign on the dotted line until the early signing period (November 12-19), but his addition to the already committed Donte DiVincenzo and Tim Delaney has ensured that the 2015 recruiting class is a success.

Welcome to the 'Nova Nation, Jalen!