Chris Egi Commits to Harvard, Reclassifies to 2014
Chris Egi, NPH #1-ranked 2015 Canadian prospect has committed to Harvard University of the Ivy League.
In the process, Egi has decided to reclassify to 2014, meaning the 6’9 swat machine will be suiting up for the Crimson as of the 2014-2015 season, and now holds the number two spot in 2014, behind Trey Lyles.
Egi is fresh off his visit where he felt right at home.
“I was really comfortable with the players and saw the direction the program is heading; on and of the floor…Harvard represented who I was,” Egi told NPH.
Egi also built a great relationship with sophomore point guard Siyani Chambers during his visit.
“I really like him, we had good chemistry. He’s really gonna get me the ball and make me look good, and I hope to do the same for him.”
When I first discovered Egi as a freshman, he was a timid 6’6 body still adjusting to his size. He is now a 6’9 defensive anchor with great mobility, communication skills, shot blocking and a developing offensive arsenal.
Egi transferred into Montverde Academy (Florida) from St Andrew’s (Aurora, ON) to consistently compete against high level talent in his final high school year. Over the summer, Egi was on the circuit with CIA Bounce, where he ranked third in the EYBL in shot blocking at 2.6 BPG behind Ivan Rabb & Thon Maker.
The Harvard program continues to incline under Head Coach Tommy Amaker, evidenced by two straight NCAA tournament appearances in the last two seasons. The only other time the Crimson made a trip to the dance was back in 1946.
“I think I can be a part of something special, trying to help build the program, as it’s heading in a great direction,” said Egi.
Last year, Harvard upset 3-seed New Mexico 68-62 for the university’s first-ever NCAA tournament win.
“I think this particular situation is different than a typical ivy league in that they play a competitive schedule, regularly playing and competing against high major programs. We will be put in position to play on the big stage, it’s not the typical ivy league experience.”
Harvard has done a great job of recruiting in Canada over the years, as Egi will join fellow Canadians Laurent Rivard, Agunwa Okolie, and Patrick Steeves.
“I thought it was great, I felt comfortable with everyone and it improves chances for other Canadians to come to Harvard.”
Egi is a major pick up for the Crimson as he will contribute immediately, particularly on the defensive end.
And a major statement for Ivy league programs, to be able to secure big time talent; something that Chris Egi certainly is.
Big time.
