usc

SoCalHoops College Recruiting News

USC Looking At JUCO Transfer--(Sept. 5, 1998)

Several folks have written to us, a few of whom we consider impeccable sources, to confirm the rumor that USC is going after Tajudeen Soyoye (6' 9" Jr. C), a JUCO transfer from Meridian, Mississippi. USC is still looking for another low post player in the event that they can't sign Jason Kapono (6'-8" Sr. SG/F/C) a guy who is versatile enough to hit from the perimeter and also play the post. Recall that the Trojans have only one scholarship for next year after signing Nate Hair (6'-5" Sr. SG) from Capistrano Valley, and if neither Kapono or Andrew Gooden (6'-10" Sr. C) from El Cerrito High (their other highest priority) in NorCal pan out (and we don't hold out much hope for Gooden becoming a Trojan) it might come down to Soyoye or Raphael Berumen (6'-9" Sr. F/C) who is really more of a true wing forward. Berumen has to be considered a dark horse for the Trojans as we reported last week, and it now appears that New Mexico may be the leader for Rafael. It also appears that UCSB is definitely out of the picture for Rafael. And if we had to guess, look for Toyoye to suit up in Crimson & Gold next year.

And speaking of UCSB, as we reported last week, BJ Ward (6'-1" Sr. PG) and his Santa Clara Oxnard High teammate Nick Jones (6'-3" Sr. SG) seem bound for UCSB. Look for them to verbal soon.