News Summary

Cedar Rapids Xavier High School senior AJ Evans has committed to play basketball at James Madison University. The talented power forward has made a name for himself locally, contributing significantly to his high school team and showcasing his skills on the AAU circuit. With offers from multiple colleges, Evans prepares for an exciting collegiate career ahead.

Cedar Rapids Welcomes Exciting News From Basketball Star AJ Evans

In a heartwarming announcement that has basketball enthusiasts buzzing, Cedar Rapids can proudly celebrate as senior AJ Evans from Cedar Rapids Xavier High School has made a firm decision regarding his future. The talented power forward has officially committed to play basketball at James Madison University!

All Eyes on AJ Evans

Standing tall at 6-foot-9 and weighing in at 215 pounds, AJ Evans has become a notable figure in local sports. He recently took to social media to share the thrilling news of his commitment, a moment that is surely a dream come true for him and his family. Last season was nothing short of stellar for Evans, as he helped propel the Xavier Saints to the state tournament semifinals. Throughout the season, he averaged an impressive 11.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, two blocks, and over an assist per game. Talk about making a mark!

Success on Both Courts

Evans hasn’t just been a standout on the high school basketball scene. He also competes in the intense AAU circuit with the Murray Elite 17U team, where he continues to refine his skills against some of the best young athletes in the game. His hard work has not gone unnoticed—Evans received offers from a variety of colleges. Yale, Penn, Jacksonville, Navy, and Western Illinois all showed interest in bringing him into their programs, which is quite the acknowledgment of his talent.

To add to his list of accolades, he also caught the eyes of schools like Georgetown, San Diego State, Lehigh, and Liberty. It seems like the college basketball community recognizes a future star when they see one!

Building on Past Success

This is not Evans’ first rodeo. During his sophomore year, he showcased his potential by scoring 101 points, snagging 81 rebounds, and tallying 18 blocks, all while shooting nearly 57 percent from the field. These numbers speak volumes about his capabilities on the court and the hard work he has put in over the years. As one of three essential returning starters for the Saints, he is poised to make significant contributions in the upcoming basketball season.

Versatile Athlete

But wait, there’s more! Evans is more than just a basketball player. He shines on the football field as well, playing tight end for the Cedar Rapids Xavier football team. This season, he has recorded three receptions for 44 yards, including a touchdown last season. It seems to be a true testament to his athleticism and versatility as a player.

Destination: James Madison University

As AJ Evans prepares to take his game to the next level, he will soon be heading to James Madison University, located in the picturesque town of Harrisonburg, Virginia. The Dukes, popping with energy, had a commendable season last year, finishing with a record of 20-12 and clinching a tie for the Sun Belt Conference championship under the guidance of first-year head coach Preston Spradlin. Spradlin stepped into big shoes after Mark Byington left for Vanderbilt, following an impressive tenure that saw the Dukes not only rack up 82 wins but also make it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2024.

Looking Ahead

With the NCAA’s early signing period for basketball just around the corner, running from November 12 to November 19, excitement is definitely in the air. AJ Evans is set to embark on a thrilling journey that will not only elevate his basketball career but also give him the chance to shine at the collegiate level.

Cedar Rapids and the Cedar Rapids Xavier community are undoubtedly excited to see what the future holds for this young star. With hard work, perseverance, and talent, the sky is truly the limit for AJ Evans!

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