Chris McKnight, a 6-foot-7 forward

[Dr Z]

All-Ohio forward commits to Zips

Chris McKnight, a 6-foot-7 forward at Lancaster High School in Lancaster, Ohio, has orally committed to play basketball at the University of Akron beginning with the 2006-2007 season.

McKnight averaged 18 points and 13 rebounds last season and led the Gales to a 17-6 record. He played a key role in his team's upset over last year's Division I state champion Canton McKinley, scoring 19 points and giving the Bulldogs their only loss.

McKnight earned third-team All-Ohio honors and was named the Capital Conference Player of the Year as a junior.

``He is a tremendous rebounder both offensively and defensively and is a very good scorer inside even against bigger players,'' Lancaster coach John Cofman said. ``He's also a very good defender not only inside but on the perimeter.''

McKnight chose Akron over offers from West Virginia and several other Mid-American Conference schools. Cofman said he chose the Zips because he liked Akron's coaching staff, its campus and proximity to his home.

[ziplock]

Outstanding pickup for us.

Looks like Keith and the staff have a done a great job for the future.

[zip37]

Ain't it great that we have a coach that can teach, recruit, think on his feet and depart from the game plan when necessary--and can get along with the players and fans? What a pleasing departure from the previous 2 coaches!

With ball ammunition lock and load.

P.S. When is the early signing period?

[ziplock]

Early signing for basketball (initial Date) is November 9th through November 16th.

Late signing is April 12 through May 17th (2006)