MBB: Leonard Allen Talks Baylor Commitment

Baylor's newest 2017 basketball commit Leonard Allen Jr (7-0 235 lbs) is a great basketball prospect oozing with potential. 

Allen is the son of Leonard Allen, a 6-foot-11 star player for San Diego State in the early 80s.  His younger brother is Jarrett Allen, also a 6-foot-11 star player for the Texas Longhorns who is expected to be a lottery pick in the 2017 NBA draft after one season in Austin. 

Allen Jr gave his commitment to Baylor on Thursday evening. He averaged 14 ppg; 9 reb and 3.4 blocks per game with San Diego City College in 2015-16. 

With a 7-4 wingspan, he should fit in well with the Bears plans to have a rim protector. 

Sicem365 caught up with Allen on his commitment to Scott Drew. 

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Why Baylor?  What other schools were you considering?  What stood out to you about the opportunity at Baylor?

Allen:  I chose Baylor because I felt that it was the best match for me.  If we compare Baylor to the schools that I visited in high school, I felt as if I could fit in better there.  For respect to the other schools that were recruiting me this year, I don't want to give out names, but I will say that I was considering two other Big12 schools.

Will you be a sophomore or junior at Baylor this year?

Allen:  At the moment, I am expecting to be a sophomore. 

I've seen your stats at Round Rock HS and San Diego City College.  Obviously, you can score, rebound and block shots.  What other parts of your game do you consider strengths?  What do you need to work on?

Allen:  I feel as if I can fit in well with how Baylor plays.  I run the court and shoot the ball well.  My biggest weakness right now is physical strength. 

You are coming to Baylor at 22-years old which is older than most guys entering college out of junior college.  What life lessons have you learned since high school that you feel will help you at Baylor? 

Allen:  Managing my time.  Definitely managing my time.  I think that was one of the hardest things to learn in life, especially when you are given a little more free time. 

What would you say to those who may doubt your commitment to basketball based on playing one year in the last four?  Has the love for the game been reignited?

Allen:  I really don't have much to say to those that doubt me right now.  If I were in their shoes, I would ask that same question.