A top scorer in high school basketball Darius Acuff Jr. announced his commitment to John Calipari's Arkansas Razorbacks on Friday. Acuff shared a cordial relationship with Calipari and deeply admired him which primarily influenced his decision to choose Arkansas over other top programs.
Acuff is the 16th 5-star point guard to commit to Calipari since the famed coach took over Kentucky in 2009.
ESPN quoted Acuff as to what made him choose Razorbacks:
"We have a great relationship. We have been tight for a year and a half. Growing up I knew what type of guard coach he was. He built the best relationship with me. He keeps it real. It's like he is already your coach when you speak with him. He has been there from the start. That was a separator. History speaks for itself. All the guards he has put in the league. I want to be part of that."
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Darius Acuff is a native of Detroit and attends IMG Academy in Florida. He visited the Arkansas Razorbacks in May.
Acuff averaged 23.9 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists in EYBL this summer. He was part of the USA Basketball Under 18 team's run to the gold at the FIBA AmeriCup. He posted an average of 17.8 points and 4.0 assists in the tournament.
Kansas Jayhawks, and Michigan were some other top programs that Acuff showed interest in. However, Acuff's observation of Calipari's coaching style became the prime factor of the Top-10 recruit joining Arkansas. He shared that Calipari encourages the players and pushes them at the same time.
Darius Acuff wants to continue to evolve as a player
Acuff's ability to put pressure on defense and score from different parts of the court has received praise from many analysts. He is especially lethal from the 3-point range and the mid-range.
However, Acuff has kept an eye on where he needs to improve. ESPN quoted Acuff pointing at his areas of improvement:
"I am working on being more of a team player," Acuff said. "I am trying to use my voice more and be more of a leader. Me and coach Sean McAloon have had many conversations this spring and summer about how I can be better. I need to be more of a point guard. Also picking up the ball sooner."
Acuff's speed, control, timing of passes, and vision have impressed many. As he wants to add another layer to his game under the wings of Calipari, it would surely make him a treat to watch for his fans.
What do you think about Darius Acuff's commitment to Arkansas Razorbacks? Let us know in the comments section below.
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