Maryland basketball was projected to enter the 2011/12 season with a distinct lack of size, but they have made a move that may end up doing something to solve that problem. Maryland has secured a recruiting commitment from 7'2'' Ukranian center Olexiy Len, an intriguing prospect who the Terps are hoping will be declared academically eligible to play next season.
InsideMDSports.com broke the story.
Sources tell InsideMDSports.com that Len, who goes by Alex in the States, is on campus expected to enroll for fall classes, which begin Wednesday, and it's hoped he'll be declared academically in time to help a Maryland program that has just three post players -- none of them with vast experience -- this winter.
Terps coach Mark Turgeon confirmed the news in a press release, via Matt Bracken of the Baltimore Sun. Len himself also confirmed the story in a press release, saying this about the Terps' atmosphere.
"In Ukraine we do not get to watch much NCAA basketball, but the first time I saw Maryland play was a memorable one. I saw a video of Maryland playing Duke in Comcast Center in 2010 season. I could not believe the atmosphere - 18,000 people, excitement and fans running onto the floor after the victory. It was unbelievable."
Len averaged 16 points and 11.4 rebounds per game in the under-18 World Championships for Ukraine. For more on him, including videos, visit Testudo Times.