BOYS BASKETBALL: Boilers' Allen commits to Illinois State

Boilers' Allen commits to Illinois State

INDIANAPOLIS - There are only a few things that Warren Central senior Jonathan Allen hasn't done on a basketball court.

The 6-foot-6 Allen, an Indiana All-Star, has soared through the air for highlight-reel dunks, drained 3s from well beyond the NBA line and locked down opposing players as a defender.

There has just been one glaring omission on Allen's basketball resume: a commitment to a college program.

Filling a Need

Allen filled that void Saturday, making a verbal commitment to Illinois State during a visit to the Normal, Ill., campus. He chose the Redbirds over Indiana State, Western Illinois, Central Michigan and IUPUI.

"I felt like it was the best fit for me," said Allen, who averaged 16.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.2 blocks and 2.2 steals per game last season. "They play at a fast pace. They needed a guy who could stretch the floor and guard multiple positions."

Allen, who also plays football at Warren Central, said he plans to sign a national letter of intent with Illinois State in November.

Addition to a Successful Team

Allen will join an Illinois State program that has won three Missouri Valley Conference regular-season titles and two MVC tournament championships in the past six seasons.

The Redbirds went 21-11 last season and advanced to the second round of the National Invitation Tournament.

Allen said he is excited to contribute to the Redbirds' success.

Big Addition

"I think I can bring a lot to the table," he said. "I can score inside and out. I can defend. I can rebound. I'm just going to try to do whatever the team needs me to do.

Illinois State coach Dan Muller said Allen is a versatile player who will be a valuable addition to the Redbirds' program.

"He's a long, athletic wing who can play multiple positions," Muller said. "He's a good shooter, a good rebounder and a good defender. We're excited to have him join our program."

Bright Future

Allen is the second Warren Central player to commit to a Division I basketball program this year. Forward Keion Brooks Jr. committed to the University of Kentucky in October.

Warren Central coach Will Hampton said Allen has the potential to be a star at the next level.

"He's got all the tools," Hampton said. "He's athletic, he's skilled and he's got a great work ethic. I think he's going to have a really successful career at Illinois State."