Gilbert commits to UCONN
By Robert Alfonso Jr.
LITHONIA, GA – Alterique Gilbert is a fleet footed guard who gets away from defenders. On Saturday, the Miller Grove High product got away from a number of college programs.
Gilbert narrowed his college choices to five before committing to Connecticut.
He selected the Huskies over Syracuse, Louisville, Texas and Illinois. His only college visit was to Connecticut in mid-April.
On Twitter, Gilbert told ESPN’s Jeff Borzello, “I loved the relationship me and coach (Kevin) Ollie have. (My mom and I) came to a conclusion that it would be the fit for me.”
Huskie fans are getting a winner, an excellent defender and a floor general in the mold of other former UConn players, particularly Kemba Walker. Here is what they can see on any given night by Gilbert courtesy of Atlanta Hoops TV.
At the NBAPA Top 100 camp, Gilbert talked about watching a number of point guards over the years. However, he has committed himself to create his own style. He is not just looking to be a scoring point guard. Gilbert can open up opportunities for teammates and run a team. The two-time Class AAAAAA Georgia state champion in Georgia, is also a lock down defender.
“I think he felt it was good fit all around,” Gilbert’s high school coach Sharman White added Saturday. “What (Coach Ollie) brings to the table, the staff, and the rich tradition of the program.”
Gilbert considered making other visits but Storrs and Coach Ollie made the decision easy.
“I feel like he gave me the best opportunity for me and mom and my family,” Gilbert told Scout’s Evan Daniels on Friday. “He’s been through it and played in the league for numerous years with different teams and different guys. He knows what it takes Him being a point guard helps and I just think it’s great for me.”
Gilbert is the second player to commit to Connecticut. The Huskies also have verbal from 6-foot-8 post player Mamadou Diarra.
About the Author
Alfonso
Robert Alfonso Jr. is a graduate of Mount Sait Mary College. He has more than 20 years of journalism experience. Alfonso has helped build a basketball web brand in Georgia and has covered high school through college sports for publications in New York, North Carolina, and Georgia. His mission has always been to uplift the athletes who play sports providing them the exposure needed in this new media platform.