The list of offers for 2021 6’0 AJ Neal from West Oaks Academy is long and it just got a little longer with his latest offer from Kevin Keatts and NC State.
Neal has been a hot target for college coaches since he was a young player, as he has been playing on varsity and at the 17u division for quite some time now. With his parents both being coaches and a ton of motivation that pushes him every day, Neal continues to work hard every day.
This past season, Neal was able to showcase his talents, averaging 13.4 points but also dishing out 5.1 assists and racking in 3.7 rebounds per game. His play this past season has helped him earn even more interest from colleges, which could potentially increase his long list of offers down the road.
NC State is the latest to offer Neal
Neal’s most recent offer came from the Wolfpack, as he has had a relationship with Coach Keatts for quite some time now.
“Keatts is familiar with my growth as a player,” Neal told Phenom Hoops. “He knew me when I was a kid running around the gyms, so the relationship is ongoing. I am truly blessed to receive an offer from NC State in a big-time conference.”
When looking at the program, the style of play is something that Neal finds interesting. NC State’s up-tempo system and how Coach Keatts coaches his player are two factors that seem to stand out for the guard.
“The style of play is the same as my high school and travel team,” he replied. “He lets his players play.”
Which schools have been showing interest lately?
Neal holds over 20+ offers already and several came back in 2018. But he mentioned schools like Ole Miss, TCU, Oklahoma State, Kansas State, Georgetown, Arkansas Little-Rock, Stetson, and Samford have continued to stay in touch (all of which have offered), while schools like Georgia, Georgia Tech, and Pittsburgh have recently reached out but haven’t offered yet.
As far as visits go, Neal mentioned that he had virtual visits with Ole Miss, TCU, and Stetson, all of which went pretty well and he hopes to take more visits after COVID-19.
He also has plans on narrowing or possibly deciding before his high school season.