What Odom is most committed to, however, is taking his time.
According to his father, a veteran of the recruiting circuit, Odom’s top four destinations are still Arizona, Harvard, Boston College, and either Vanderbilt or West Virginia.
Odom will be making a visit to Boston College this coming weekend, and a decision could be possible following the trip, but it would not be surprising if it took longer.
Impressive physical specimens and versatile threats on the hardwood, Powell and Odom would constitute tremendous coups by Harvard if either were to commit. They are the caliber of player the likes of which the Ivy League rarely encounters, but as always, it remains to be seen where the prospects end up.
The picture is much clearer with the other three visitors of the weekend.
Austin Carroll, a 6’3” shooting guard out of New Hampshire’s Brewster Academy, is rated at an 84 by ESPN, and was complimented by members of the Crimson for his on-court feel and sharp-shooting ability during workouts with the team.
As of yet, his other option appears to be Rutgers, a visit to which will be taking place in the upcoming weeks. Though Carroll himself did not comment, Harvard has been called his leader.
“Very impressive what they have done in the past few years,” Carroll said through text message.
Ugo Okam has confirmed that Harvard is currently his top choice. A raw prospect with outstanding athletic ability, Okam is a 250-lb seven-footer who would provide the Crimson with a front-court force to be reckoned with. Following visits to Vanderbilt and Loyola Marymount, he will have a decision next month.
Another high-major prospect, Majok Majok was unable to be reached for comment, but multiple sources believe his current favorite is Harvard. The rugged 230-lb power forward grades at an 86 according to ESPN. He places a high value on academics, because “we’ll all someday have to take off our jerseys and go into the work force,” he said via text.
This past weekend was recognized around the country as a major moment for the Crimson program. If coach Amaker gets his way, Harvard basketball will be put on the map not only for a couple of days in September, but for many years to come.
—Staff writer Dennis J. Zheng can be reached at dzheng@college.harvard.edu.