Pitt Basketball: Jamie Dixon adds point guard to 2013 class
By Matt Shetler
Pittsburgh Panthers head coach Jamie Dixon added another piece to the Panthers’ 2013 recruiting class this week when he got a verbal commitment from athletic point guard Josh Newkirk.
Newkirk is a 6-foot-2, 170-pound guard from Word of God Christian Academy (N.C.) and committed to Pitt, choosing the Panthers over the likes of Georgia Tech, Memphis and Missouri.
He is one of the premier athletes in the 2013 class, is a consensus top-150 prospect, ranking No. 89 and 119 nationally by Scout and Rivals, respectively.
The scouting report on Newkirk lists him as athletic and quick, which allows him to consistently drive the lane and finish above the rim. He’s a combo-guard learning to become a true point guard, and is transitioning well. He’s called a very good passer who doesn’t try to force things.
Defensively, Newkirk isn’t as advanced as Dixon may want right now, but he has the potential to be a good defender who will create some turnovers. He’s quick with the ball in his hands but needs to tighten his handle and improve his jump shot to become a more complete offensive player.
Newkirk comes from the same high school as NBA star John Wall and is a prospect with a very high ceiling.
His commitment gives Pitt their second of the 2013 class. New Jersey forward Mike Young committed last month.