Five-Star Recruit Cliff Alexander Chooses Kansas Over Illinois

Just minutes after fellow Chicagoan and 2014 prospect Jahlil Okafor announced his commitment to Duke live on ESPNU, another top ranked big man, Cliff Alexander, made his college decision at a press conference from his school’s gymnasium. Looking at the camera, the 6-9 big announced, “After careful consideration, I’ve decided to continue my education at the University of Kansas.” As to what head coach Bill Self said that sold him on joining the Jayhawks program: “That he’s going to coach me and get me where I want to be,” he answered. The decision didn’t come without drama. Alexander reached for the Illinois hat in front of him while making his announcement, before pulling a pump fake and grabbing the blue Kansas Jayhawks hat — giving his hometown school a false sense of joy for a quick second.