Washington State Basketball: 3-Star Josh Hawkinson Pledges Crimson & Gray,Cougs Get Big From Different Source, Northwest

Josh Hawkinson, a three-star, 6’9 (maybe 6’10) center from Shorewood HS in Shoreline, WA is headed across the pass to suit up in crimson and gray. Hawkinson is highly regarded throughout the state of Washington and announced his decision a few days ago after his official visit. He fits the description of something the Cougars haven’t been able to get to this point in Ken Bone’s tenure: A big man in the states and in particular, WA. Up to now, Australia and transfers have been the calling card for Cougar bigs, not that it’s a bad thing though. I mean, look at Motum.

The Cougars have had a serious issue with big men since Ken Bone took over, not just on their side, but in a defending sense too. Big men have torched WSU in recent years with their ability to simply out-size and wear down a smaller Cougar team in the second half. 2012 may be no different, but coach has put into action his rebuttle for 2013 and beyond. As of next season, the Cougars will have at least 4 bigs going 6’10 or taller, and at least 6 players going at least 6’7. We haven’t been able to say that in what seems like a long, long time.

On top of his length, Hawkinson possesses a bit of bulk as well, tilting the scale at about 230 currently. It’s a sure bet that by his sophomore season, with weight lifting and the like, Hawkinson will be in the 250-260 range, which is where D.J. Shelton and transfers James Hunter and Jordan Railey currently reside. We’ll have to piece together what a rotation might look like after the season.

With 3-star PG Ikenna Iroegbu committing earlier in the month, the Cougs have now realed in 2 solid players for next season. For more on the Josh Hawkinson commit, click this link to bustingbrackets.com .