Connecticut Recruiting, Jeff Borzello

TYLER OLANDER RECRUITING UPDATE

Versatile forward keeping options open with transfer from Worcester back home

BY JEFF BORZELLO

One month ago, Tyler Olander was a likely class of 2011 prospect playing at Worcester Academy. However, he has since transferred back to E.O. Smith High School in Connecticut and will be in the class of 2010 – for now.

“I didn’t reclassify – 2010 is my class,” Olander clarified to the NBE Basketball Report on Saturday. “I don’t know what I’m going to do next year. I’m considering a post-grad year but I’m not sure yet.”

On the recruiting front, Olander has sifted through his multitude of offers and now has a top three: Connecticut, Florida and Wake Forest. He also said that Rhode Island and Virginia are also under consideration.

Olander plans to check out campuses after the season; he has yet to go on an official visit.

“[I’m looking for] a good education and a place where I can reach my potential as a player and develop into an NBA prospect,” Olander said.

Olander is a 6-foot-9 forward and one of the top prospects in New England. He is mobile and athletic and can finish effectively around the rim.

He missed the National Prep Showcase in late November with a hand injury, but he is fully recovered and back on the court.

“The season is going real good so far,” Olander said. [But] I want to work on my all-around game and strength – upper-body strength.”

Many eyebrows were raised when it was announced that Olander was leaving Worcester for E.O. Smith, but he doesn’t regret the decision.

“Worcester wasn’t the right spot for me academically,” he said.

With Olander’s potential and talent, his college prospects certainly won’t be hurt by his transfer – no matter when he decides to enter college.

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