Huggins Lands Big Time Guard * FREE STORY

By Sam Hosey, Jr.

Ask Noah Cottrill a question and he’ll answer it with no hesitation. Even though he’ll just be a sophomore next season, the Class of 2010’s No. 5-ranked point guard knew what school he wanted to attend as he gave West Virginia coach Bob Huggins a verbal commitment last week.

“I just wanted to let it be known where I wanted to be,” Cottrill said when asked why he committed so soon.

At 6-2 Cottrill could continue to grow but with his skill he'll likely end up a point guard. But he’s capable of playing both guard slots at a high level. West Virginia wasn’t the only big-time school that tendered a scholarship offer to the guard from Poca, West Virginia.

Florida, Marshall, Kentucky and Michigan also offered. But for Cottrill it was about feeling at home.

“It’s where I feel more comfortable,” he said. “The coaches at West Virginia made me feel more comfortable than at any other school. Everywhere else it’s like a stiff handshake and a ‘hello.’

“When you go to West Virginia and see Coach Huggs it’s like a handshake and a hug. So everything feels more comfortable to me and maybe -- [since] I committed early -- I can get more people to come with me.”

In addition to trying to bring in more talent, Cottrill will continue to emulate his basketball idols.

“Everywhere from Jason Williams, Steve Nash to Dwayne Wade.”

Why those three?

“Well, with Jason Williams it was his passing and everything,” he said. “With Steve Nash, just the way he sees the court and Dwayne Wade he’s just a freak, man. He’s a monster.”

Cotrill played up in the 16U age group with the Ohio Basketball Club at the Adidas It Take 5ive Classic in Cincinnati. His all-around skill, athleticism and competitive fire were on display. Expect to hear more from Cotrill.