Brandon Ashley? Don’t Get Your Hopes Up

Although Brandon Ashley has stated there are no favorites for where he will be attending college in 2012, his transfer to Findlay Prep (NV) makes it appear as if Cal is on the lower end of his list.

Disappointing? Sure. Expected? Much more so.

Why is it expected?  Ashley is simply too big of a talent for the Bay Area. He has been labeled the #25 recruit in the class of 2012, and with that label come expectations. He has been recruited by the best programs with the best traditions, something that must be tantalizing to a 17 year old kid with dreams of stardom.

Despite Ashley being from Oakland, it appears unlikely that Cal will land the 6’8” future star.

Ashley’s mother Lashiem Clark implicitly confirms this when she says, “It’s a tough decision for sure. For three years Brandon did the team thing, but now it’s time to be a little selfish and do what’s best for Brandon.” And what does “being selfish” entail? Ashley wants the national attention the #25 recruit deserves. Playing at Findlay Prep will give Ashley the opportunity to play against the top competition in the country and take advantage of the scouting/exposure that will bring. Sometimes hype and reputation help a lot more than just talent.

And a lot of talent he has. Watch this, it’s unlikely you’ll see him at Haas come 2012.

Brandon Ashley Summer Mixtape… Top 5 Talent in 2012

Cal Basketball’s inability to grab real top-flight talent is troubling, especially with those in your own backyard. Montgomery and the rest of the staff have a lot of work to do to turn Cal into a really strong program.

Inking Brandon Ashley would be a good start. Unfortunately, it appears he wants more.

What do you guys think? Do we have a shot at landing him? Leave a comment.