Head Coach Kevin Gamble, And The University Of Illinois-Springfield Score A Recruiting Coup, And Land Class Of 2010 Urbana High School Star Kyle Clevenger


Cavan Walsh
February 4, 2010

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Head coach Kevin Gamble, and the University of Illinois-Springfield have scored a recruiting coup, and have landed Class of 2010 Urbana High School star Kyle Clevenger. Clevenger ranks as one of the top Class of 2010 basketball prospects in the state of Illinois.

Clevenger, a 6'5" shooting guard, is an intriguing combination of size, athleticism and basketball skill. Clevenger, who also starred on the football field, is a tough and hard-nosed player who can score the basketball both inside, and outside with his ability to drop shots with range.

A number of reasons factored in Clevenger's decision to select Illinois-Springfield. “Basically, to me it was one of the best offers I had, and I really fit the program. I have a great relationship with both the coaching staff and the players there, and I was just really comfortable. I am ready to get over there, and to start getting everything off, and to begin working to get better as an individual, and also a team. It’s also nice to stay close to home because I have younger brothers and sisters, but that was not the deciding factor,” said Clevenger.

Clevenger is happy to have the weight of his collegiate decision lifted from his shoulders. “Just get the weight lifted off my shoulders, and now I can fully concentrate on the season and my game. I can now focus on my goals and expectations, and it’s just a big relief to not have the thought of where I’m going to play next year, or to even have think about the decision,” said Clevenger.

Clevenger selected Illinois-Springfield over the University of Indianapolis, Detroit-Mercy and Tennessee-Martin. Clevenger competed on the travel team circuit with Team Illinois as a prep.

Clevenger now is ready to place all of his focus on finishing his senior year strong. “We really want to just keep playing good for the rest of the season, and win regionals, sectionals, and to just keep advancing as far as we can in postseason. Other than that just keep playing hard, finish the season strong, and continue to play well as a team.”