D.J. Richardson

D.J. Richardson drawing new schools

By: Kevin Devitt

Peoria Central sophomore D.J. Richardson is arguably the best player in the state of Illinois for the class of 2009. Richardson was not present at the University of Illinois team camp today due to previous commitments with head Coach Troy Johnson and the Illinois Stars at a Peoria AAU tournament. “It wasn’t anything against the University of Illinois,” Richardson explained. “Coach Johnson really wanted me to be there for the team, because I played for our U-16 and U-17 teams today. I played 10 games.” Richardson further explained that he notified Illinois assistant coach Wayne McClain that he would not be able to make the team camp with his Peoria Central teammates.

Richardson also emphasized that he is firm on plans to return to Peoria Central for his junior season.

Besides offers from Baylor, Bradley, Illinois, Indiana and Notre Dame, the 6-3 guard has also received varying degrees of interest from DePaul, Georgetown, Kentucky, Miami, Ohio State, Purdue, and Virginia. With no clear favorites at this time, Richardson does not want to rush into make a commitment. “I haven’t sat down with my parents to talk about schools,” said Richardson.