Duke Nabs Aussie Forward

Duke has done a good job diversifying its recruiting base. The East Coast has long been a staple for the Blue Devils; lately, Jeff Capel has mined his old Big 12 territory to great effect. But Australia?

In a first, assuming you don't count Kyrie Irving who was born in Australia but raised here, Duke has signed an Australian basketball player.

His name is Jack White, he's 6-7, and he committed Thursday, tweeting this:Very happy to announce that I have verbally committed to Duke University! Excited to be a Blue Devil!

He must've made a good impression. His stats aren't overwhelming - he averaged  8.3 points and 3.9 rebounds in the FIBA U19 World Championship last summer and previously he drew interest from Mercer, Loyola Marymount, Albany and Buffalo."

AUSAHoops.com has this to say about White: White is an exciting, athletic prospect. He has a well-rounded offensive game with the ability to elevate above the rim and also shoot a good percentage from beyond the arc.

"He is a typical ‘three and D" prospect who hits open face up threes, finishes above the rim and plays relentlessly on defense. He has a wide set of shoulders and looks like he will be able to add some size to his frame (somewhat reminiscent of Hugh Greenwood).

"A fantastic rebounder on both ends, White brings a very well rounded game to the table that will translate easily to high major basketball."

There is also video posted there and it doesn't take long to see his appeal. He's athletic, as promised, and pretty hard-nosed for an international wing player. He's going to make Duke fans happy.