Canadian Star Prospect Abu Kigab Chooses Oregon Ducks
After having his list cut to Oregon and Illinois, Abu Kigab has chosen national championship contender Oregon as his home for the duration of his collegiate basketball career. Following Kigab’s visit to Eugene, Oregon in the beginning of September, there was a sense that he had thoroughly enjoyed the visit and could see himself there. “Oregon is a great place that has everything you need to succeed and I felt that I would fit in there perfect because of my work ethic and the drive to prove myself everyday,” he stated this morning. The 6’6 Canadian wing hails from St. Catherines, Ontario where he began his high school career at St. Francis Secondary and is now completing at Prolific Prep, where America has taken notice. How could you not notice? From the age of 14 his upside was recognized due to his off the chart intangibles and steady rate of improvement. Now as a senior, his upside has not come to a halt and his improvement continues to incline. Kigab has a relentless motor and non-stop communication skills. Whether with the Canadian National Team (U18), Prolific Prep or during the summer with UPlay Canada, he’s the loudest player on the floor. The tenacity and competitive nature accompanied with these traits make him a real problem for the opposition. His refined shooting skills and ability to create offense off the dribble have continued to add to his stock. Coming into his freshman season, he wants to be a big piece for the Ducks. “As a freshman I want to come in and make a huge impact on both the offensive and defensive end. As for my career, I’m hopeful to have the opportunity to compete for and win a national championship.” A more chiseled frame and greater speed have turned him into a player that fits the high tempo style of the Ducks when they are pushing the pace. Kigab, at the same time, has the strength to bang and play a more physical game, Dillon Brooks style, if you will. With Brooks expected to leave for the NBA after this season, Kigab fills in smoothly to replace the Canadian forward. In fact, one may argue that Kigab is more polished at this point in his career then Brooks was a senior. When he was asked about the comparison to the junior Duck Brooks, he responded, “Dillon and I are fierce competitors who love to win. We both go out there and give it everything we got every single day.” It’s likely not going to happen, but imagine if Dillon were to stay for his senior year and Oregon had Brooks and Kigab on the same line up. The Ducks have continued to attract top Canadian talent to Eugene and they’re not done yet. Other top 10 Canadians in Oshae Brissett and Lindell Wigginton are possibly other players that could land in Oregon.