2017 big P.J. Washington chops recruiting list to eight schools

P.J. Washington, a 6’7″, 232 pound five-star 2017 power forward, has increased his stock drastically this summer with monster performances on the Nike EYBL Circuit and at the U18 FIBA Americas Championship.

With schools likely looking to jump in the mix for Washington’s services, the big man has opted to chop his recruiting list to eight schools: UCLA, Arizona, North Carolina State, Kansas, Texas, Kentucky, UNLV and North Carolina.

Washington is a native of Frisco, Texas, but plays his high school basketball in Las Vegas at Findlay College Prep. He is ranked 16th overall on ESPN’s top 100 for the class of 2017, is the top player from the state of Texas and is the fourth best power forward in the country.

Playing with Team Penny on the Nike EYBL Circuit, Washington made Second Team All-EYBL after averaging 17.4 points, 10.9 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game. He shot an efficient 62 percent from the field, was active defensively (1.1 steals per game) and led Team Penny to the semifinals of Peach Jam (before losing to the PSA Cardinals by two).

The tough forward averaged 10.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and shot 61 percent from the field in the FIBA U18 Americas Championship. He helped lead Team USA to an undefeated record in the tournament and a gold medal game victory over Canada.

Washington will be a terrific player at the college level because of his strong frame, length (7’1″ wingspan), toughness and high skill level. He is a excellent transition player as he is capable of finishing on the break with authority and filling the lanes successfully.

While he doesn’t have a consistent three point shot, Washington has a solid mid-range game and has developing range on his jumper. He is very undersized for a power forward at 6’7″, but he impacts the game in numerous ways and is a tremendous rebounder because of his long arms and athleticism.

Any of these eight programs would be pleased to add Washington, who will give them plenty of versatility. He possesses the ability to face up (from there he can either attack and shoot a mid-range shot or take the defender off the bounce), and operate on the low block with a plethora of post moves.

Add on the smarts and intelligence to time his blocked shots defensively, and Washington could be a force in any conference, on any team.