MBB: Jared Butler on why he chose Baylor?

After a whirlwind day of basketball news, Baylor ended up with a terrific point guard prospect for the present and future.  Jared Butler from Reserve, Louisiana was heavily recruited as part of the 2018 class and he eventually chose Alabama over a final three of Baylor, Virginia and Alabama.  However, Butler left Alabama in the summer after enrolling in May. 

In high school Jared averaged 27 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists and 3 steals for Riverside Academy. 

He is applying for a waiver to be eligible for the 2018-19 season.  

Jared, one of the most important questions I can ask you is what is your wingspan?  Have you had it measured?  I let him know this was an inside joke on the message boards.  

Butler:  Unfortunately, I do not have an answer for you!  

I spoke with one of your AAU coaches, Omhar Carter.  He said you have some similarities to Rod Strickland and Jason Kidd as a point guard in your ability to pass, court vision and basketball IQ.  That is high praise.  Some of the younger folks reading this won't be familiar with their games.  Do you have some current point guards that you want to emulate?  

Butler:  The two that come to mind are Chris Paul and Kyrie Irving.  I love the feel that they have for the game.  

What do you plan to study at Baylor?

Butler:  I plan on studying engineering

What do you want to work on the most to be ready to contribute on the college level?

Butler:  My speed and quickness for the most part.  

Do you talk with former Baylor great Tweety Carter who is also a PG from your high school along with Rico Gathers?  What have they told you about Baylor?

Butler:  I talk with Tweety all the time.  They both loved Baylor so it is great having them talk to me to give me a feel for what to expect.