Fast-rising Matthew Gilhool discusses visits and updates recruitment
Matthew Gilhool has been one of the biggest upward stock risers on the Under Armour Next travel circuit. The 6-foot-10 power forward has had a host of college coaches sitting courtside throughout the April live evaluation periods to get a glimpse of this skilled and versatile big.
“I’m a big who can do a little bit of everything on the floor,” Gilhool told On3. “I can shoot it, and I can put the ball on the floor. I really emphasize defense and blocking shots. Being able to shoot the ball consistently has really opened my game up this year. I watch a lot of Chris Bosh. He’s a lefty, can really shoot the ball, plays out of the pick and roll, pick and pops.”
On3 caught up with Matthew Gilhool after a recent live viewing to discuss his recruitment.
Gilhool talks recruitment
“I haven’t been on any official visits yet,” Gilhool said. “But I play on taking visits this summer and in the fall. I’m talking with Virginia Tech and Penn State right now about setting something up.”
Virginia Tech: “They’ve been really recruiting me hard, and I like how they play. Their bigs are able to shoot the ball, and they give their bigs freedom. I talk with Christian Webster there mostly, and we got a good relationship.”
Penn State: “Coach (Mike) Rhoades and the new staff re-offered me after they got the job. They want basketball to be big up at State College. They’re a football school, but they’re really trying to get their basketball program to the highest level. My conversations with the new staff and with Coach Rhoades have been great. I really like what they have going on.”
“Michigan hasn’t offered, but they’ve been in contact recently,” Gilhool said. “Florida has been interested too.”
In Gilhool’s words
“I’m looking for a program, first a foremost, that is going to win,” Gilhool said. “That’s the most important. When it comes to the style of play, I want to play for a coach that is going to give his bigs freedom to make plays. I want to be used correctly and be used how I play; push the ball, pick and pop, pick and roll, like that.”