by Alex Schwartz

Villanova  landed one of the most sought after guards in the Northeast this week. Ashcraf Yacoubou '11 of Long Island Lutheran (NY) selected the Jay Wright and Co. over Kentucky and UConn. Yacoubou spent his freshman year at American Christian Academy (PA), where his coach, Tony Bergeron, had high praise for him. "The only thing that held him back [this season] was that Tyreke Evans played the same position," said Bergeron in an April, 2008 interview. The 6'3 combo guard went with the Big East program just days after unofficially visiting Kentucky for its Big Blue Madness event.

In other news related to Philly hoops—this on the high school side of things—Danny Stewart '10 of Neumann-Goretti (PA) committed to Rider this morning. I was informed of the decision by two independent sources as was then able to catch up with the 6'6 combo forward to discuss his decision. Stewart, who selected the Broncs over Robert Morris, said the following when asked how he picked the MAAC school: "The coaching staff was really cool. I loved the visit and when I was with the team I enjoyed myself. Plus, the campus and people are really nice."

Stewart seems to be relieved to having the decision behind him, saying he feels "great" and adding, "It's a big load off my chest. Now I am able to focus on school and the upcoming season." Just what does Danny feel Neumann-Goretti will be accomplish this year? "Try to repeat [winning] the Catholic League and city title, and we want to win states this year, so we're going for all three."

Stewart was rated amongst the top 40 performers at Hoop Group Elite Camp Session One by Northstar Basketball. At that event, he was a Senior All-Star and the first power forward drafted. I inquired of Danny when he feels the strongest and weakest points of his game are, and he responded, "I'm really athletic and I can finish, rebound, and run the floor. I just need to work more on my ball handling and shooting."

Note- photo is from http://scouthoops.scout.com/