Top-25 junior Eric Dailey Jr. talks his recruitment
On a program with major depth and talent all over its roster, IMG Academy has produced high-level prospects every single season. One of the younger players on the roster and one guy that even has the option to play overseas: Eric Dailey Jr.
The 6-foot-7, 220-pound wing is being prioritized by many programs and for the past few months has said that he’s just focused on his game and wants to work on getting better. He has seen himself playing a nice role with IMG this season, contributing on both ends, and has had multiple games where he scored in double figures.
Dailey Jr. isn’t fazed by anything and believes he could always do better. But, it’s the mindset of a future pro. While on that topic, Dailey Jr. also has professional opportunities on the table:
Another possible option for Dailey Jr. is the opportunity to go overseas and play in the EuroLeague and then make the jump straight to the NBA. FC Barcelona is the lone program to have an overseas offer extended to him. “They want me to do two years in the Euroleague and then make the jump to the NBA,” he told Stockrisers.com.
Dailey Jr. is no stranger to the overseas game, rather than playing in AAU, Dailey Jr. would play tournaments in Spain and Madrid during his summers, so he is familiar with their playstyle and it could be an option if he and his family opt to go that route.
He also said that they would’ve taken him this year and they did indeed want him as soon as this upcoming season but Dailey Jr. says “It wasn’t the right time for me and my family.”
He talked about his college recruitment with Stockrisers.com.
What schools are still heavily involved with your recruitment, at this point.
Dailey Jr: “Schools that have been involved are Michigan, Florida, Miami, Iowa State, Florida State, Texas A&M, and South Carolina.”
Briefly, how has COVID-19 affected the recruiting process for you?
Dailey Jr: “It has made it difficult for coaches to see me play and actually meet me.”
Let’s talk schools quickly, thoughts on the Florida Gators?
Dailey Jr: “Florida is a school that is close to home and my mom actually worked there when I was younger.”
Texas A&M was one of the first schools to contact you in June, how about them?
Dailey Jr: “Texas A&M has dealt with plenty of players like me and knows how to get them ready for the next level.”
Lastly, the Michigan Wolverines?
Dailey Jr: “Michigan has a great coach in Juwan Howard that has been to the level I am trying to make it to and it’s a lot of love coming from there.”
Thoughts on the season so far?
Dailey Jr: “The season so far has been difficult with the schedule because a lot of the big tournaments we play in are getting canceled, so it has been a challenge.”
How about your game so far this season, thoughts?
Dailey Jr: “My offensive game is pretty solid and just needs fine-tuning but I want to really focus on my defensive game.”