Top prep shooting guard Kendrick Nunn picks Illinois

Chicago, IL, United States (4E Sports) – Simeon High senior shooting guard Kendrick Nunn has committed to play for Illinois, giving coach John Groce his first marquee recruit for 2013.

The 6-2 Nunn, the state’s second-best senior behind high school teammate and top-ranked player Jabari Parker, made his commitment while on an official visit to Illinois. He was also courted by Marquette, Memphis and Ohio State.

“It was to the point where nothing else was going to get better than here,” Nunn’s father, Melvin, said. “There’s a lot of history at Illinois to do with it. That’s what it’s all about. He wants to continue the history. He did it at Simeon and now wants to continue it at the state school and be a part of a national championship at his state school.

“I think Kendrick believes he can get this rolling. He wanted to be a part of something he got started. Groce and his coaching staff want him to be a part of something he got started,” Melvin added.

Nunn averaged 15 points last season for Simeon, which won its third consecutive state championship. He also helped Team USA win gold in the FIBA U17 World Championship this summer.

According to scouting reports, Nunn is a strong guard who uses his strength to finish through contact at the rim, but has a very good perimeter shot to keep defenders at bay.

Scouting reports added that Nunn is athletic and can make plays in transition. Defensively, he has the ability to stifle opponents because of length and strength.

Nunn is Illinois’ third Class of 2013 commitment, joining Belleville East (Ill.) swingman Malcolm Hill and Springboro (Ohio) center Maverick Morgan.

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