BORN READY TO DECIDE

April 12, 2009


by Zach Smart


"The s--- is bogus, the boy did not go for the bucks!"-"Big Time," He Got Game

The curious case of Lance Stephenson, New York City's top-ranked player (and one of the most highly sought after items on the nation's recruiting marketplace) has taken a few twists and turns lately.

None of this was expected. The manchild, known in these parts as 'Born Ready,' with springy bounce and a penchant for wowing, electrifying and violent dunks was rumored to be Kansas-bound.

Stephenson, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound senior at Lincoln High (Brooklyn, N.Y.) held back on his announcement, which was expected to take place at the McDonald's All-American game in Miami.

A number of inside sources close to both the Stephenson family and Kansas indicated that 'Born Ready' was headed to Jayhawk territory.

Word that Stephenson may commit to St. John's, however, has spread like wildfire in the last several days.

"It's a done deal," claims one source who is close to the St. John's coaching staff.

The source has a son who is already considering St. John's--amongst others--to prolong his basketball career. He maintains close ties with the Johnnies' staff.

At the Hoop Group Elite 100 camp at the Queens, N.Y. campus last week, the source spoke out about Stephenson's future and the controversy suddenly surrounding it.

"The number one prospect out of New York City is going to St. John's. Malik Boothe knows he's coming. Omari Lawrence knows he's coming. I think we all know who this player is, and he knows where he's going and it's St. John's.”

Stephenson took an official visit to the campus in Jamaica, Queens this weekend, as it was reported HERE on zagsblog.com.


Reporters from SNY both debunked the rumor that Lance is committing to St. John's soon. They contacted parties and both sides and each denied the rumor.

Stephenson Sr. told SNY's Brooklyn Sal that the claim was false and that his son is simply "weighing his options."

The Kansas situation may have taken an abrupt turn.

The Jayhawks, Stephenson's supposed first choice, are anticipated to offer 6-foot-6 Oklahama City standout Xavier Henry a scholarship.

Like Stephenson, Henry is a five-star recruit at guard. Henry de-committed from Memphis after John Calipari accepted the long green to revive a once-prosperous program at Kentucky.

Stephenson made history this season, etching his name in NYC Hoops royalty. He led the vaunted Railsplitters to an unprecedented four straight PSAL titles.

Stephenson established himself as the city's all-time leading scorer.

Since garnering some national exposure in a duel against O.J. Mayo in 2005, Stephenson has left a lasting legacy as a top-profile high school phenom.