For Allen (Tx.) 2025 forward Deandre Thomas the decision to follow Ross Hodge to West Virginia simply came down to trust.
On many different levels.
Thomas, 6-foot-7, 210-pounds, had originally signed with North Texas when Hodge was overtop the program but requested his release after his head coach took the job in Morgantown.
Now, Thomas will be following him to play for the Big 12 Conference program largely due to those preexisting relationships and trust in him that Hodge has shown.
“The fact that they believed in me enough that I can also play at the Big 12 level heavily went into my decision,” he said.
That was apparent during his time committed to the Mean Green and only carried over after Hodge moved up to the high-major level.
“That has held a lot of weight,” he said.
That belief isn’t without merit as Thomas is a versatile forward who brings a lot to the table on both ends of the floor. That versatility at his size is something that initially drew the coaching staff to him on the recruiting trail.
“My ability to guard multiple positions and I have immense offensive value at multiple positions on the court. I think I can help us win next year,” he said.
Now with his recruitment behind him, Thomas is excited to compete in the Big 12 Conference, which features some of the nation’s best.
“I am looking forward to what we can accomplish this upcoming year. I think the fans will be proud and I can’t wait to get out there and meet a great community,” he said.
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