Recruiting Report: Ben Carlson adds Xavier offer
East Ridge top 40-50 power forward Ben Carlson of the Raptors had Xavier in to see him this evening and the Musketeers extended Carlson a scholarship offer.
The hometown Gophers have made a strong push for Ben to stay home and the relationship has been built between Richard Pitino, his assistants, and Carlson’s family quickly.
“They had a tough year, last year, but they’re going to be really good,” Ben said. “I know they added some new guys on the coaching staff. I like the coaching staff a lot. I think they’re going to surprise a lot of people this year.
“They’re going to be really good. I’ve been down there, I don’t know how many times for practices and stuff, and they’ve got a lot of energy down there. So it’s going to be an exciting year for them.”
Carlson’s offer from Xavier puts him at 15 offers now.
“I’m not trying to rush a decision at all, I’m trying to make the best decision I can. I’m guessing it will be probably around this time, next year when I decide.
“I’m trying to make the best decision for me. I’m not trying to rush anything where I don’t have to. I don’t know how long it will take for me to make the best decision, but I am guessing around this time next year.”
Carlson was recently offered by Ohio State and took a trip to the school.
“That was a really fun visit,” Ben said “I went there right before the Michigan one. Obviously Ohio State, everyone knows Ohio State. It’s a national brand both football and basketball-wise. They’re just really great at all of their sports, down there. I really liked the coaching staff, there, too. It was a real good visit.”