Michigan 5-star recruit James Young gave his verbal commitment to Kentucky on Thursday, choosing the Wildcats over Syracuse, Kansas and Michigan State.

He announced his decision on ESPNU’s Recruiting Nation.

Scout.com rated the 6-foot-6 guard as the No. 5 prospect in the class of 2013. Young repeatedly said the Wildcats were his top choice, and made an unofficial visit to Kentucky two weeks ago.

“I always dreamed of going to that school and once I went up there to go visit, I just fell in love with the place,” Young said on Recruiting Nation. “It’s a great atmosphere, great coaching, great facility, great basketball history behind it. I just love the school.”

It’s the second straight week John Calipari has landed a big-time recruit. Twins Andrew and Aaron Harrison, both top prospects, committed to UK last week.

Syracuse also lost center Nerlens Noel to Kentucky in April when the 5-star recruit opted to play for the Wildcats over SU and Georgetown.

Young said Calipari’s penchant for developing NBA-ready players played somewhat of a role, but it was not necessarily the deciding factor.

“It played a little bit of a role, but I’m not just looking for the NBA,” Young said on ESPNU. “I’m just there for the education. I’m there to get to the national championship and that’s about it”

Published on October 11, 2012 at 5:54 pm

Contact Chris: cjiseman@syr.edu | @chris_iseman