Recruit Jeff Robinson Sold on Cal, Style of Play

Jersey Prep Robinson Sold on Cal, Style of Play
By Gary Parrish, Memphis Commercial Appeal
June 16, 2006

On paper it appears the University of Memphis is nearly finished recruiting even before the all-important July evaluation period begins. With this week's commitment from Jeff Robinson, a 6-6 wing from New Jersey, the Tigers currently project to having 12 scholarship players on their 2007-08 roster, meaning only one scholarship remains for rising seniors.

Crisis, right?

Only if you pay attention to such things. Rest assured John Calipari does not, which is why he and his staff will continue targeting Class of 2007 prospects and likely over-sign in November. For proof, consider that Shawne Williams, Sean Banks, Ivan Lopez, Tank Beavers, Ricky Sanchez, Kendrick Perkins, Keena Young, Michael Ford and Darius Washington each projected at one point to be Tigers in what would be this upcoming season. However, none of those guys will be in uniform -- the one possible exception being Washington, but only if he is not selected in this month's NBA Draft and then opts to return to school.

As for the newest commitment, he picked Memphis for the same reasons as seemingly every other recruit who picks Memphis.

"I like the style of play," Robinson said. "And I like coach Calipari."

Robinson accepted the U of M's scholarship over reported offers from, among others, Connecticut, Indiana and Miami. Most recruiting analysts consider him a borderline Top 100 prospect whose hard-nosed approach and athletic ability will allow him to flourish in the Tigers' up-and-down style of play.

"That's what the coaches told me too," Robinson said. "They said they think I can be a combination of (former Memphis standout) Rodney Carney and (former Texas standout) P.J. Tucker."