Mayes Could Be Next Redlands Star
The Redlands Junior College in El Reno, Okla., is a popular spot for recruiters. Last season, the school was home to Taj Gray, one of the top JUCO players in the nation. He transferred to Oklahoma for the upcoming year. This season, Sylvester Mayes could be the next big timer.
The 6-foot-2, 195-pound shooting guard native of Ft. Wayne, Ind., has an impressive list of Division I schools keeping tabs on him after strong freshman season and an even more impressive summer. He shined at the showcase events and now his focus is on the upcoming year.
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After averaging 15 points and six assists a game last season, Mayes said he’s welcoming the opportunity this season as one of the upperclassmen on the roster.
“Basically, this is my year to step my game up,” he said. “I need to be that leader this year. If everybody learns their game, I think we can be pretty good.”
Mayes said he’s had interest from Auburn, Charlotte, Indiana, Ohio State, Purdue, Texas, Texas A&M and UNLV have shown interest in having him transfer into their respective programs.
“There are more than that but those are the ones that come to mind,” Mayes said. “If I missed someone, than that’s my fault. But, like I said, those are the schools that I’m thinking about.
“I’m keeping my options open and then break all of my options down with my coach at the end of the season.”
Mayes said his decision making process will be simple.
“I’m looking for a school that graduates its players,” he said. “Of course, how I fit into their system is important and I’d really like to know what other guards they are recruiting. But, most of all, it’s about how they can help me graduate.”