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Former Louisville recruit and five-star prospect Brian Bowen has chosen South Carolina as his new home.
Bowen was one of the key figures in the FBI’s probe into college basketball recruiting that ultimately led to the dismissal of Louisville coach Rick Pitino. Bowen’s father was allegedly sent payments by Adidas to steer his son to play for the Cardinals, an Adidas-sponsored program. Bowen has denied knowledge of this, explaining that his decision to attend Louisville hinged on the roster situation at Arizona, which was his initial favorite.
Bowen, a forward hailing from Indiana, was a McDonald’s All-American and becomes the highest-rated recruit South Carolina has landed in program history. Already enrolled and on campus, he must sit out two semesters due to transfer rules, but would be able to play for the Gamecocks next spring. He has been cleared by the FBI.
Bowen’s lawyer is pleased with the move:
We have worked tirelessly for Brian Bowen to help him find his way back on the court. We are so grateful that So Carolina and Coach Martin are seeking reinstatement and ultimately for giving him a chance to compete for a National Championship. #athletedefender #gogamecocks #sec https://t.co/lEXrpVnghL
— Jason Setchen (@AthleteDefender) January 10, 2018
“Brian is an exceptional young man and a basketball player with a very high IQ for the game. He brings a high-level skill set to the court and will make an immediate impact on our team with him joining us on the practice courts this week. He is a strong, athletic small forward, who can really shoot the ball and rebound.
Brian deserves a fresh start and I would like to thank our University administration, President Pastides, our Board of Trustees and Ray Tanner for their hard work and guidance in helping Brian become a member of our Gamecock family.”
After struggling to a 10-6 record so far this season, the Gamecocks could certainly use some blue-chip talent waiting in the wings.