West Plains Parker Picks Penn State
Travis Parker didn't need a long time to reflect on a decision.
Parker, a husky 6-5 1/2, 235 pound combo forward from Southwest Missouri State/West Plains J.C., committed to Penn State on Monday after wrapping up his official visit just 24 hours earlier.
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A native of Greenville, N.C., Parker picked Penn State after considering UNC-Wilmington and Arkansas State, West Plains Head Coach Tom Barr told JUCO Junction on Monday night. Parker's only official visit this spring was to Penn State.
"He was excited about it," Barr said. "It's hard to get JC guys who will graduate on time, and he will do that."
Parker will graduate from West Plains in May, affording him the chance to enroll at Penn State this summer and get a head start on things.
Parker averaged 13.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game for the Grizzlies this season. He shot 39.5 percent from three-point land.
Despite his bulk, Parker can knock down the perimeter jumper or make the deft pass. He can bring a four man outside because of his threat as a shooter, or post up a three man should he rotate over to guard Parker on the wing.
"He's versatile," Barr said. "He can play around the basket and shoot it. Plus, he's a tough, competitive kid."
Parker will have two years of athletic eligibility remaining at Penn State.