Each and every time Phenom Hoops gets to report or sees a commitment from a player we have seen over the years, it is always a fantastic day. It is great to see players achieve their goal to play at the next level and it is such a great accomplishment for that player.
Here is the latest commitment.
Player: Julen Iturbe
Class: 2024
Committed to: American
What He Said About American (Aug 1):
““I really enjoyed my visit there in June. Coach Simpkins being the new hire for them, I really like what he has to say, and I think he will put the program back on the map. The style of play is the right fit as well as all the other schools.”
What He Brings:
Iturbe is an interesting prospect, and American has been recruiting him hard over time as we have seen their coaches sitting baseline all throughout the summer watching him. When you talk about his game, he certainly is a strong framed forward but what makes him so interesting is how nimble he can operate and move on the court. He has no problem in making plays for others, seeing the floor, or creating on his own, which is why he won playmaker award at the SC Top 80. But again, he is able to not only operate along the perimeter but use that frame to his advantage to battle down low as well.
What Has Been Said:
“He’s a big, strong-bodied forward with a high IQ, active motor, and an extremely unselfish approach to the game. Iturbe is skilled like a guard but possesses the sturdy frame of an interior player, commonly making him a matchup problem for most opponents. He possesses touch, perimeter shooting, and the ability to create for himself and others with relative ease. Iturbe is a brilliant passer with phenomenal vision and an understanding of how to initiate the offense, make plays in transition as a ball-handler, or set up teammates from the post. He utilizes his body well to absorb contact on both ends of the floor. Iturbe is a quality defender and an excellent two-way rebounder. Coach Wilson on Iturbe: “Julen can really shoot it. He has a good feel for the game. Very high IQ. Rebounds and pushes the ball extremely well. Very talkative on defense. Displayed a great attitude.” Iturbe proved to be a top performer at camp, securing the Mr. Playmaker award, and should be a prospect for various college coaches to monitor over the upcoming season.”
“There are players who are capable of causing matchup problems and then there are others who simply deserve the label of “walking mismatch,” like Julen Iturbe. It’s highly uncommon to see guys with his level of skill and offensive versatility, particularly as a strong 6-foot-6 forward. Iturbe’s impressive skillset allows him to comfortably dictate the action with the ball in his hands, both as a scorer and playmaker. He’s an efficient perimeter shooter, post-up option, and penetrating threat with a phenomenal knack for making the right decision. Iturbe does a terrific job of taking what the defense is giving him, but also has the ability to take what he wants. He’s simply a smart, skilled player. It also doesn’t hurt that his father formerly played basketball at Clemson. Although he already holds four offers, Iturbe should definitely collect more over the coming months.”