Four-star 2018 guard James Akinjo has committed to UConn, sources tell A Dime Back.
The California guard reinforces the west coast recruiting prowess of Kevin Ollie, and maintains the program’s momentum following the arrival of internet sensation Kwintin Williams and St. John’s “transfer” Sid Wilson.
James Akinjo is the #2017PeachJam Most Valuable Player 🍑
Averaged 18.8 PPG, 6.8 APG, 4.3 RPG & 1.1 SPG for the Peach Jam Champs #SALUTE pic.twitter.com/cUH7QMbwKX— D1 Circuit (@D1Circuit) July 16, 2017
Overlooked during much of his high school career, Akinjo broke out this July with an MVP performance at the Nike Peach Jam. He averaged 18.8 points, 6.8 assists, 4.3 rebounds and shot over 46 percent from three in the eight game tournament. His offer sheet expanded to include a host of powerhouse programs afterwards (including Indiana, Maryland and California), but he only took one official visit: UConn.
At six-feet, 160 pounds, Akinjo has the skill set of a traditional point guard, but enough athleticism to play off the ball as well. He has a solid handle, a soft touch and a natural passing eye. Most encouraging, however, is his reputation as a lockdown on-ball defender and his budding leadership skills.
UConn still has a minimum of one scholarship to fill before next season — likely more with transfers and/or early departures. Ollie has been chasing New York guard Jalen Carey (the country’s 49th best recruit according to 247’s composite). Whether Akinjo’s arrival helps or hurts that pursuit is anyone’s guess, but for the first time in a long time, momentum is now on UConn’s side.
