By Chris Williams, CycloneFanatic.com Publisher
Marcus Paige had a busy weekend. The 6-foot, 155-pound 2012 point guard prospect out of Linn Mar camped at Kansas on Friday and Saturday, while taking in Iowa State’s Elite Camp on Sunday.
Paige is part of a talent-rich 2012 class in the state of Iowa. On Sunday afternoon, Paige got acquainted with new Iowa State head basketball coach Fred Hoiberg.
“Today was the first time that I actually got to talk to him (Hoiberg) in person. I have talked to him on the phone but I got a chance to meet him this weekend and that was pretty exciting,” Paige said. “He was just telling me about how I can contribute to the offense that he wants to run. He’s really excited to turn around the Cyclone program. He is pretty confident that he can get the job done. It seems like a great fit.”
“I like everything he has done so far. He’s talking about playing the up-tempo game. I can’t wait to see it when he starts getting some guys.”
During his time in Ames, Paige got to rub elbows with a couple of 2011 Cyclone commitments, Elgin Cook and Anthony Odunsi.
“They are both pretty good,” Paige said. “Cook is a great athlete. It’s always nice to have guys like that. Odunsi is a solid player. He plays hard and can get to the rack. They both looked pretty good.”
For the first time, Iowa State’s Elite Camp primarily took place in the brand new Sukup Practice Facility. Paige remembers previous Elite Camps in Ames. Needless to say, the Sukup facilty is a monumental improvement.
“It is almost night and day, the difference,” Paige said. “Some guys will pick schools simply because of the facilities that they have. To have something like that, it not only helps recruiting but it also helps once you get guys on campus. It is just a great thing to have everything in one spot.”
Paige told CycloneFanatic.com that Iowa State will be a factor in his recruitment up until decision time. According to his Rivals.com profile, Paige currently holds offers from: Iowa State, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota and Northern Iowa.
However, after his weekend in Lawrence, Paige seems to feel that Kansas is getting more interested by the day.
“Kansas’ interest level has gone up a little bit,” Paige said. “I made it down there and got a chance to talk with Coach (Bill) Self a little bit. They have some high interest in me I guess.”
“We didn’t talk about an offer but they let me know that they like my game and that they are going to keep a close eye on me over the next few months.”
Paige also said that Wisconsin is showing heavy interest.
Paige is playing AAU ball with the Martin Brothers this summer.
