Lewis attracted to Quaker legacy
Ron Bailey, Publisher
Factors basketball and non drove Lewis to choose Penn.
July 1, 2011 - A serious young guy, Class of 2012 guard Jamal Lewis thought long and hard about his college decision, pondering which education had the most to offer academically and basketball-wise. Add legacy to his choice matrix.
"I just want to be a part of the Penn legacy" shared Lewis today of his choosing the University of Pennsylvania for college. "I know it's the best fit for me".
Meaning exactly what?
Jamal Lewis going to the cup for Sidwell Friends.
"Academically, you can't beat the Ivy League" he stated of what Penn offers scholastically. "It will really prepare me for the future". Attending Sidwell Friends (DC) is in no doubt steeling him for the challenges his college home will provide - athlete or not, he will still be responsible for the considerable work load he'll face.
In terms of hoops, Jamal is bullish on Jerome Allen, Penn's head coach
since December of 2009.
"I'm really looking forward to working with coach Allen" he
said of the team's bench leader, one that starred at the school and played
in the National Basketball Association. "He will bring out the best
in me. Coach Allen knows the school and basketball. I'm excited to play
for him".
Additionally, Lewis, one to respect the larger picture, lauded the legacy
of basketball at Penn, labeling it "incredible, with all the success
and players they've had".
Expect Allen to receive a smart combo guard that will track as such in
the Ivy League: Lewis is tough, intelligent and capable of attacking the
rim, finding teammates, shooting off the bounce and in motion. Many feel
he's a steal for Allen and the Quakers.
"I think Jamal could have played for some bigger basketball places obviously, but it (the decision) speaks to why Jamal came to Sidwell in the first place" stated Eric Singletary, his high school coach. "I just think some kids have a vision and confidence in themselves that players make schools, not schools making them". Later, the former Sidwell and Rice University standout who is re-establishing Sidwell basketball noted "I wouldn't have wished to start a program with another kid. His (college) decision speaks to that".
George Washington, William and Mary, Boston University and Penn State had offers on the table for Lewis, while Harvard, Yale, Quinnipiac and several others were interested.
Of Lewis' preparation for college, Singletary shared a development plan
of "His midrange is there, but we want to work on (deep) shooting.
Getting into the paint is a strongpoint, but I don't want him to have
to do it". Additionally, expect Jamal to continue "being a more
vocal leader. And obviously continue decision making (work), which has
been going on".
“I couldn't have made a better decision" summed Lewis via telephone,
though the smile on his face was palatable. The same could be said for
Singletary, who noted of Lewis' decision "It's a long time coming.
I'm happy for the young man...Penn has a wonderful tradition and I think
Allen is bringing it back; the Big Five, Palestra, basketball in Philadelphia.
What more can you ask for "?
For Jamal Lewis, an intelligent, confident, forward thinking young guy, nothing.
Extras: Lewis, who also is a DC Assault standout talks about playing with that organization, as well as what he's faced in school during his diary series, exclusive to i95Ballerz.com.