Eighth-grader commits to UK

[The Bubba]

Michael Avery isn't sure where he'll attend high school next fall, but he already has decided he's going to the University of Kentucky.

The 6-foot-4 Avery, who is finishing eighth grade in Encino, Calif., has committed to UK and coach Billy Gillispie, his father, Howard, confirmed yesterday.

www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080502/SPORTS03/805020490/1029

Wow, shades of Damon Bailey at IU. I'm thinking Bailey may have committed in the 6th grade. At 6'4, Avery has a good shot of being 6'8 or more before reaching UK.

[uk9698]

I suppose this is a great thing. I must admit I am a little afraid of having kids commit this early. I mean who knows if these kids will improve any at all. Not to mention we might not recruit others in this class and who knows if the word of an 8th grader might change between now and when he signs. Lets hope that this works out as good as it seems!

[Sandman]

Like you, uk9698, I feel a little uncomfortable with commitments made this early, but it may be due to the fact that this is something we're not used to. If a commit changes his mind, there's nothing we can do about that, and if the coach changes his mind, he can always pull the offer. One thing to ponder is this: say coach G. leaves before time to sign these very early commits, the player may not get to come even if he wants to, or he may not want to.

[trueblue]

I realize that none of this is binding. This kid or UK could change thier minds at any time. I do think it's funny though. Pretty soon coaches may start to coach while their in the womb.