VCU fills out hoops recruiting class

Throughout the month of March, the Virginia Commonwealth University men’s basketball program defeated some of college basketball’s heavyweights.

Over a month later, Head Coach Shaka Smart and the Rams haven’t stopped as they landed coveted big man, Jarred Guest (Columbia, S.C.), out of Charis Prep and Richland Northeast High School.

“We’re very excited about adding Jarred to our program,” Smart said. “His athleticism and diverse skill set fit our style of play extremely well. More importantly, He’s a quality young man with a terrific upside, both on and off the court.”

Guest, who drew interest from Georgia, Maryland, Tennessee, Missouri, Oklahoma State and many others, is a 6-8, 200-pound forward who gives the Black & Gold valuable depth at the position.

“Jarred is a long, rangy forward who is explosive around the rim,” ESPN.com Scouting Coordinator Dave Telep said. “He’s always been a producer and should fit well with the Havoc style of play.”

While playing for Carlos Peralta at Charis Prep this past year, he helped the Crimson Tide claim the National Prep School Championship and post a 35-5 mark, while averaging 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds and 3.1 blocks per game.

“Jarred played a huge role in the success we had as a team this past year,” Peralta said. “He improved more in one year than any player I’ve ever had here. I’m very excited about the opportunity he has to go and play for Coach Smart and his staff at VCU.”

Prior to his time at Charis, Guest was an impact player for Jason Powell at Richland Northeast High School in South Carolina. There he averaged nearly 20 points and 10 rebounds a game en route to multiple All-State and All-Conference accolades.

“I’m really excited for Jarred and his family for this opportunity to play at VCU,” Powell said. “He is a special player that has a ton of potential, both on and off the court. He actually didn’t start playing organized basketball until about his sophomore year, so with the hard work he’s going to put in, I know his future is very bright.”

Guest rounds out a recruiting class that includes Teddy Okereafor (Christchurch School – Christchurch, Va.), Briante Weber (Great Bridge – Chesapeake, Va.) and Treveon Graham (St. Mary’s Ryken – Washington, D.C.).