After a long, drawn out recruitment, Amile Jefferson committed to Duke over N.C. State, Kentucky, Ohio State, and Villanova, among others, Tuesday afternoon. Picking up Jefferson this late in the year was crucial for Duke as they were desperately trying to avoid a one-man 2012 recruiting class of only Rasheed Sulaimon.
The Blue Devil coaching staff was actively recruiting Jefferson earlier in his high school career, but their interest faded as they pursued other forwards. After being spurned by Mitch McGary and passing on Perry Ellis and Alex Poythress, Duke aggressively re-entered Jefferson's recruitment at the beginning of the year and hosted him for an unofficial visit during the North Carolina game on March 3rd.
Jefferson is 6-foot-9 versatile combo forward can defend numerous positions and rebound at a high level. His length, defensive prowess, high character, and strong work ethic should be beneficial for Duke's frontcourt in the years to come.
The Friends Central high school standout, who is the No. 25 player in the class of 2012 according to espn.com, will be the first player from the Philadelphia area on the Duke roster since Gerald Henderson.
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