Four-star recruit gives VCU Twitter commitment

Alonzo Small
Contributing Writer

In less than 140 characters, four-star recruit Justin Tillman tweeted his verbal commitment to join the VCU men’s basketball team for the 2014-15 season.

“Just committed to #VCU #Rams looking forward to what my future holds,” Tillman said via social media.

The 6-foot-8 power forward’s unofficial commitment comes less than two weeks after his first official campus visit on Aug. 30.

A Redford, Mich. native, Tillman drew interest from local universities including Detroit and East Michigan. According to NBC Sports, Xavier and Iowa were considered to be the frontrunners before the Rams swooped in and stole the forward.

Tillman told Scouts.com that VCU’s coaching staff made the difference.

“I feel like the coaches are pretty cool,” he said. “I connected with them, I feel like I fit the program perfectly.”

Tillman will join the Rams in what could be a rebuilding year. VCU will be lose standout forward Juvonte Reddic and Florida State transfer Terrance Shannon for the 2014-15 season following their senior campaigns this year.

ESPN.com ranks Tillman as the 29th-best power forward in the 2013-14 recruiting class. His exceptional size and 7-foot-2 wingspan figure to fit in nicely with VCU’s front court. His ability to hit the outside jump shot should allow him to play multiple positions on the floor. On the defensive end, he also possesses the athleticism needed to thrive in the Rams’ up-tempo system.

While coaches are not allowed to comment on recruits because of NCAA regulations, Tillman’s AAU coach, Michael Allie, provided insight as to why the four-star recruit will succeed in Richmond.

“Justin’s biggest strength is his motor because it allows him to run the floor and be active on the glass.” Allie told VCURamnation.com. “(Tillman) rebounds well out of his area and is showing versatility on the offensive end.”

Tillman joins point guard Jonathan Williams as the only recruits committed to VCU for the 2014-15 basketball season.

Though not required, the verbal commitment can be made official with a National Letter of Intent on the week of Nov. 13.