4-star Eric Dailey updates recruitment, talks pro route
Eric Dailey, a 6-foot-7 forward out of Bradenton (Fla.) IMG Academy is the third-best available prospect in the class of 2022, according to the On3 Consensus.
Dailey, ranked No. 35 overall, says he’s in no rush to make a decision and is taking his time with the recruiting process. He says Michigan, Texas A&M, Georgia, Florida, and USC have all been in contact.
Dailey says each of the schools recruiting him has basically the same message. “They’re just saying I can come in and be a guy that can play on the wing, be able to play with the ball in my hands, a lot of pick-and-roll stuff, and help me get to the NBA and improve.”
Both of Dailey’s parents both coached in college. “I know a lot of these coaches from my mom and dad so that’s a plus. Knowing how the college system works and having people that can guide you the right way has been a blessing.”
Is the professional route an option?
“Everything is an option right now,” Dailey responded when asked if the pro route is an option. “There is nothing set in stone.”
Regardless of whether or not Dailey chooses college or the pro route, he says he’s looking for “somewhere I can prepare for the next level, which is the NBA. Show my skillset and versatility and play freely.”
Dailey hasn’t taken any college visits
What is particularly interesting about Dailey is the fact that he has not taken a single college visit. When asked if he plans to visit any schools, he responded, “As of right now, no. I’m just finishing out the season and from there, we will make more decisions. I just have to talk to my people about it and we will see where things go from there.”
Dailey’s parents both played pro
When it comes to deciding between the pro route and college, Dailey has an excellent foundation and guidance system in place. As mentioned previously, his parents both played college ball, but they also both went on to play professionally. Speaking specifically about his father, how has Eric Dailey’s dad been able to assist in this decision? “He’s been involved in a big way. He’s always working for me 24/7 and working on his company as well. But the main priority right now is me. He’s been a big part and he’s doing a great job. I’m just going to keep trusting in him.”
Is Dailey leaning more towards college or pro?
“I’m open to everything. Wherever the best situation is for me,” Dailey said. “It’s not all about money. You can make money anywhere now. It’s just basically wherever I’m going to develop at and get better, so if that’s college, then it’s college. If it’s pro, then it’s pro.”
When asked which pro route, i.e., G-League, NBL, etc are interested in Dailey, he declined to give specifics but said “I’m just going to say, it’s a lot of options. Several different options.”