Top-20 PF Jarin Stevenson recaps Alabama visit, talks UNC & possible reclassification
Four-star power forward Jarin Stevenson continues to climb up the class of 2024 player rankings, now 17th nationally in the On3 Industry Rankings. To no surprise, the 6-foot-8 junior out of Pittsboro (N.C.) Seaforth has some of the best programs in the country vying for his commitment. On3 recently caught up with him to discuss the reclassification rumors, his recent Alabama visit, the hometown North Carolina Tar Heels, and more.
Stevenson has been linked to a possible reclass for several months now, but those rumors have began to heat up over the last few weeks. Stevenson remains steadfast that he is still “50/50” on either remaining in the 2024 class or moving up to 2023. He says a decision on the topic of reclassification, as well as a college decision, will come at some point this summer. Virginia, North Carolina, Alabama, NC State, Georgetown, and Missouri are the schools he plans on deciding between. Early June is the target time frame for a commitment, a source told On3.
Stevenson talks North Carolina
To say Jarin Stevenson is familiar with the Tar Heels is an understatement. He lives right outside Chapel Hill, in Pittsboro. Jarin’s mother, Nicole, played at North Carolina, where she won three ACC championships from 1995-1998.
Earlier this week, Stevenson tripped to UNC for an official visit (likely his last) and discussed his expectations with On3.
“I expect a great time, just hanging out with the coaches,” he says. “Learning about them, their personalities a bit more, building a connection with them. Seeing the facilities again, maybe hanging out with some of the players and just having a good time. Coach (Hubert) Davis is a great person. We talk over the phone, text message. He really cares about his players and his recruits. He has a kind heart and I know he will be a great coach.”
Alabama visit recap
Alabama is the latest school to jump into mix for Stevenson, who recently visited Tuscaloosa. He recapped that trip.
“Great coaching staff. Coach (Christian) Pino and coach (Nate) Oats are great people. They definitely know their stuff and they run an NBA offense. They also have good defense over there so I like that about them a lot. Great school.”
Scouting Report
“Jarin Stevenson comes from a basketball family. His mother played at North Carolina, and his father was a 1,400-point scorer at Richmond before playing professionally overseas for ten-plus years. Stevenson is skilled on the offensive end; with solid size, he can push the break or shoot the three. He can fall in love with the three-point shot. He has a quick release and consistently has good balance, and is shot-ready off the catch. While he is still growing into his frame and athleticism, he has solid wiggle and excellent hand-eye coordination. He is a good athlete, better vertically than he is laterally, which will lead to questions about where he defends. There is good floor vision, and he is able to push the break off the rebound. Can be a good area rebounder when he locks in. Stevenson is a matchup problem, with his skill away from the basket. Prefers facing up. Would like to see him develop a little more alpha, and be ok taking over a game. His efficiency numbers have been high, consistently at the highest levels.” – On3’s Jamie Shaw