Washington Huskies: Mike Hopkins shows pedigree to sign Hameir Wright

Dec 30, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Syracuse Orange interim head coach Mike Hopkins gestures from the bench against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the first half at the Petersen Events Center. PITT won 72-61. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Syracuse Orange interim head coach Mike Hopkins gestures from the bench against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the first half at the Petersen Events Center. PITT won 72-61. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

New Washington Huskies head coach Mike Hopkins beats out his former to secure the services of consensus four-star prospect.

One of the big questions facing Mike Hopkins coming into the program, was how good he would be at recruiting. Former Washington Huskies‘ head coach Lorenzo Romar had a sterling reputation for bringing in talent.

If Saturday is any indication, it seems like Hopkins will be just fine. As reported by Percy Allen of The Seattle Times, the Huskies have secured the services of Hameir Wright.

In doing so, Washington beat out high-profile schools, including Michigan State and Villanova. Perhaps most telling of all, the list also included Syracuse, Hopkins’ former team.

More from Washington Huskies Basketball

Nationally regarded as a four-star prospect, Wright had received plenty of interest. As reported by Scout.com, he also had offers from the likes of Cincinnati, Maryland, Miami (Fl), Michigan State and Providence.

The youngster had previously intended to play next season for Brewster Academy, in New Hampshire. After changing his mind and committing to the Huskies, he will now be eligible to play for them in the 2017-18 campaign.

Wright is an imposing figure, standing at 6 foot 8 and 205 pounds. He was named New York State Gatorade Player of the Year, after averaging 16.7 points, 9.1 rebounds, three assists and 1.9 blocks during this past season.

Mark Fruscio, head coach at Lansingburgh High, gave his take on the two-time New York State Sportswriters Association player of the year in Class A. Speaking to Dawgman.com, Fruscio said:

"“Hameir Wright is an exceptional basketball player. He does so many things well on the court. He can rebound, shoot and handle the ball, making him a match-up nightmare. What is most impressive is that the game comes so easily to him that it’s almost like he’s doing everything while exerting very little effort.”"

Understandably, this won’t entirely make up for the loss of Michael Porter Jr., but Wright is still an excellent addition. He joins the Huskies’ class of 2017, which also includes point guard Nate Pryor, along with shooting guards Michael Carter III, Jaylen Nowell and Nahziah Carter, who is a close friend of Wright.

Next: Why did Noah Dickerson reverse his decision?

What’s your initial take on Wright? Further, what are your early impressions of Hopkins? How confident are you in his ability to get the Huskies program back on track? Share your thoughts in the comments section.