There are a select few players out there whom Duke is recruiting who are not on the Nike EYBL Circuit, and Milwaukee native Kavon Looney (Class of 2014, 6-7) is one of those prospects. I was finally able to see Looney live during the recent NBAPA Top 100 Camp, and all the raves I have heard about his play were deserved. What I saw in Looney is a kid who hustled non-stop and was very active, always seeming to be around the ball. Within the first five minutes of sitting down to view him. he blocked successive shots on one defensive possession and hustled to take care of any garbage or putbacks. I usually like to watch five full games of any prospect before trying to break down his game, but it didn't take that many views of Looney for me to realize why Duke is so high on him. The Blue Devils are certainly in the mix for Looney and it is clear that there is mutual admiration here per his comments, but this race is a hotly-contested one. Looney confirmed to Blue Devil Nation that he would indeed narrow his list of schools just after the July 4th holiday, and there is little reason to think Duke will not make that cut. There is little not to like about this young man's game, especially his desire and hustle. With that said, premium members can read the full interview below, and I will talk more about Looney and further break down his game on the BDN Premium message boards if there are any questions.
How would you describe your game in your own words?
I play hard and I am versatile and I try to be tough and smart out there.
I'm hearing you are ready to cut your list to five schools. When will that decision actually take place?
Yes, I will cut my list to five on July 5th.
Who will play important roles in your decision-making process?
My parents and [private] my AAU Coach will have influence on my decision. They've been in the process from the start and will be there until the end.
Where or when did you learn the game of hoops?
My Dad and my brother when I was about six or seven. We'd go down to the park and play and I would watch him. And then, since the third grade, I have been with the same AAU team.
Which schools have been the most active or aggressive in recruiting you to date?
I would say about five or six. Michigan, Michigan State, Florida, Duke and Tennessee and Georgetown is starting to pick it up again.
Did you have a dream school growing up?
I really didn't follow college basketball during the season a lot but I would watch the tournament, so I really didn't have a dream school growing up.
Did you have a player you liked one where you would try to emulate their style on the court growing up?
My favorite player is Kobe and I like the Lakers, so I he got injured.
Will you be taking all five of the official visits you are allotted before making a decision?
Yes, I do plan on taking all five official visits before making a decision.
What do you think of Duke?
Duke is a great school with great tradition. They've got a legendary coach and a great brand for school and basketball, so I am showing a lot of interest in Duke.
What are your plans for the rest of summer?
I am not sure, but I am going to the LeBron James Skills Academy and I will go to Vegas.
Do you currently have a timeline for making a decision?
Yes, I want to do it before the high school season which could be around November or something like that.
What is the most important factor that have influence on your pending decision?
I would say communication and trust. The coach who I have the best relationship with is probably where I will end up going. [/private]
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