The class of 2006 is loaded with talented big men, and Lance Thomas, of St. Benedict Prep, is right up there with the likes of Vernon Macklin, Kevin Durant, and Brandan Wright.
Rated 6th at his position, Thomas is beginning to roll in the accolades, his latest being a state title. His high school won the State A Prep championship two weeks ago partly due to his play. Thomas scored 14 points and snagged 14 rebounds in the 71-61 victory.
“Individually I did really well (this year). I did a lot better than a lot of people said I would,” Thomas stated. “I’m just going to continue to get better.”
The 6-foot-8 forward is very mobile for his size and has the athletic ability to play at and above the basket as well as step out and knock down the jumper. With his size and versatility Thomas is being recruited by the heavyweights of college basketball.
According to Thomas, Arizona, Wake Forest, North Carolina, Duke, Georgia Tech, Syracuse, and UConn are recruiting him the hardest. With all the letters and phone calls he receives, it can be a stressful time, but Thomas is just trying to live it up.
“I’ve been trying to take it all in and make it fun,” Thomas said. “I’m going to let it all fall into place. I don’t want to rush into anything.”
Thomas, who averaged 18 points and 10 rebounds a game, said he’s really looking for a college that will fit him, and he hopes to possibly major in architecture.
“They are all great programs,” Thomas replied. “I’m going to look for something that will separate one school from the other.”
When asked what elements would factor into his decision the most Thomas replied that he is just looking somewhere that is the right fit for him. “Most likely a place that makes me feel right at home and can get me to where I need to go, which is to be successful.”