What Will Hanchett Do

Jim Hanchett, a rugged 6-5, 230 pound power forward from Utah Valley State College in Orem, Ut., had a terrific sophomore campaign for the Wolverines.

JUCO Junction watched Hanchett as a freshman three years ago during the 1999-2000 campaign, and we were impressed back then by his strong interior play and rebounding ability relative to his size. He spent the past two years on an LDS Church Mission.

Hanchett was a first team Region 18 selection this year, averaging 15.1 points and 10.8 rebounds per contest as Utah Valley reached the regional final last week.

According to a source familiar with Hanchett's situation, the power forward is likely to remain at Utah Valley or possibly attend Oregon State. Utah Valley spent its last year in the junior college ranks this winter and is poised to join the NCAA Division I rostrum next fall.

Former Utah Valley Head Coach Jeff Reinert is currently an assistant coach at Oregon State.

Hanchett is a bit of a tweener size wise to play the power forward position at a high level of the Division I ranks, but there's little questioning his effort and intensity out on the basketball court. He's a blue collar player blessed with good athleticism, and he gets to the free throw line quite a bit. His shooting range is fairly limited, but he's one of those players you'd rather have living in the shadow of the basket than roaming around on the wing.

JUCO Junction will keep you posted on Hanchett's situation as the spring signing period approaches next month. Stay tuned!