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Junior forward Brandon Clarke has made his intentions known, and they do not appear to be playing for San Jose State next season. After requesting to speak with other programs surrounding a potential transfer, the Spartan program obliged.
The request was granted on Tuesday, and by Wednesday Clarke had 12 potential landing spots. Among a list of teams that includes Oregon, Cal, Utah, Washington State, Virginia Tech, GCU, OU, Clemson, Pitt, and Cincinnati, are Big Ten schools in Michigan and Nebraska.
SJS transfer Brandon Clarke is considering Oregon, Cal, Utah, Wash. St, Michigan, Neb., VT, GCU, OU, Clemson, Pitt, & Cincy, per a source.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) August 23, 2017
The decision should be met with little surprise following an offseason marred with uncertainty. The Spartans finished the 2016-17 campaign with a paltry 14-16 record, including a five-game skid to punctuate the season. Head coach Dave Wojcik then tendered an abrupt resignation, citing person reasons. The vacancy wouldn’t be filled until just three weeks ago, as the university brought in former Colorado assistant Jean Prioleau. Clarke’s departure ensured the stability would be short lived.
After a strong freshman year output that netted him the Mountain West Sixth Man of the Year award, Clarke dazzled in his sophomore season. The First-Team All Mountain West effort was backed by per game averages of 17.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, 2.5 blocks and 2.3 assists. Clarke led San Jose State in all four columns, flashing a versatility not always found in a 6-foot-8 frame.
Clarke is a monster athlete, doing his damage at and above the rim, and not just offensively.
“He can score with his back to the basket, he score in transition, he can score facing up,” Wojcik said of Clarke last season. “He’s just a hard, hard player to defend. He’s a special kid. He’s a special player. I’m very thankful he’s on my squad.”
Both the Wolverines and Cornhuskers would love a player like Clarke, but Nebraska in particular seems to be wanting in talent. Tim Miles’ squad saw its best player graduate in Tai Webster and four others leave by way of transfer. Though Clarke would be required to sit a year, he would still contribute two seasons of his game ready and polished skillset, providing an immediate impact.