Vann Is Still Available??

Ron Bailey, Publisher

December 27, 2006 – There always seems to be several players in a certain geographical area that for whatever reason, have not received a solid scholarship offer. While it’s true scouting – from high school to pro - is an inexact science; how else does a Ben Wallace go undrafted by the NBA from Virginia Union, or former St. Joeseph’s standout and eventual NBA first round pick Delonte West, not receive a plethora of interest from major colleges out of high school (Greenbelt, Md’s Eleanor Roosevelt).

While probably not becoming the player those two standouts are, Travon Vann is another guy who is definitely not receiving the recruiting attention he deserves.

A 6’3”, 180lb self-defined combo guard from Frederick, MD, Vann is presently completing his senior year at St. John’s Catholic Prep, based in his hometown. After the recent Gonzaga DC Classic he shared “A lot of mid majors like Quinnipiac and Richmond” have inquired, but no school has actually offered.

And this is despite averages he supplied as “18 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists” this season at St. John’s (previously widely known as St. John’s-Prospect Hall). As Vann’s stat line and perceived strengths indicate, Travon impacts a game in many ways. “I’m a pretty good passer, rebounder, and midrange shooter” he opined.

Travon Vann (#42, center-left) is shown here after the Maryland Hurricane's Charlie Weber Capitol Invitational championship last April. Ronnie Smith (far right) said of Vance "He is a great person and a blessing to be around. Travon is like a little son to me".

Vann’s AAU coach, the Maryland Hurricane’s Ronnie Smith, agrees with that assessment, adding “defense and leadership” to Travon’s plusses, while believing “His weaknesses are turning the corner on quick guards” and consistiently dropping long range jumpers.

By all indications a Division I caliber perimeter player, Travon has several criteria he hopes to find in his future college home. “I want to attend a school that has good academics, and a good basketball program” he said, before adding “And is six to five hours from home”.

From a basketball system perspective, Smith believes his former player will excel “in a three guard offense” where primary ball handling duties could be shared. Ever improving, Vann shared he “working on” being a lead guard by strengthening his hall handling and decision making skills.

Check back with i95Ballerz.com for recruiting updates on Travon Vann. A player with his skill set can’t be under-recruited for long. Or at least you wouldn’t think so.