Arizona HS football recruiting: Liberty All-Arizona WR Prince Zombo lands spot with BYU

This is an ongoing tracker of Arizona high school football 2023 prospects and the colleges to which they commit. Keep coming back to keep track of where today's high school standouts will be playing their college football.

Liberty WR Prince Zombo headed to BYU

Jan. 28, 2023

Peoria Liberty senior wide receiver said Saturday morning that he has committed to BYU as a preferred walkon. Zombo was one of the state's most dynamic players last season, making The Arizona Republic's All-Arizona first team, after catching 49 passes for 973 yards and 10 TDs.

The 6-foot-1, 185-pouner helped Liberrty go 11-1, reaching the Open Division state semifinals in maybe the best breakthrough year of any player in the state. He had transferred from El Mirage Dysart after his sophomore year and was used sparingly as a junior before breaking out this past season for the Lions.

Offers never came in for Zombo, but he was patient in his search. A preferred walkon could turn into a full scholarship.

"The process was filled with ups and downs," Zombo said. "I just stayed patient waiting for someone to give me a chance and BYU gave me that. I like how it’s just a great place to be , everyone wants to be great and the coaches are willing to go all out, and I want to be part of it."

Yuma Catholic QB Richard Stallworth finds college home

Jan. 13, 2023

It was a frustrating process for the state's all-time passing leader, but Yuma Catholic senior Richard Stallworth finally found a college he can call home.

He announced on social media Friday night that he has committed to the University of Northern Colorado, where he'll have a chance to show Northern Arizona what it passed on the next four years, playing agaisnt the Lumberjacks in the Big Sky Conference.

But NAU was far from being the only school that didn't pursue the 6-foot-2, 210-pounder, who is the only high school quarterback in Arizona history to surpass 12,000 passing yards in a career and throw a state-record 168 TD passes.

UNM was his only Division I football offer.

"It was definitely hard and frustrating," said Stallworth, who ended up with 12,590 passing yards in his three-year varsity career that included a COVID-shortened 2020 sophomore season in which he ended up playing 11 games, guiding the Shamrocks to the 3A final.

"But Coach really said some great things and had lots of trust in me," he added. "Now I'm just ready to show college football and other schools who they passed up on. I'm going to make a name for myself in Colorado."

Mountain View OL Sirri Kandiyeli first in-state player to commit to new ASU coach Dillingman

Dec. 2, 2022

Mesa Mountain View center/guard Sirri Kandiyeli became Arizona State football coach Kenny Dillingham's first in-state 2023 commit. Kandiyeli, 6-foot-3, 270 pounds, announced his commitment on social media Friday morning.

Kandiyeli is a three-star recruit whose previous offers included Idaho State, which is where Charlie Ragle was head coach this past season before joining Dillinghmam's staff this week.

He had 11 college football offers but ASU is the only Power 5 school to offer him.

Dillingham retained Shaun Aguano from the former ASU staff. Aguano helped recruit Kandiyeli .

"For me, it was just that they have been a long-time favorite of mine and the amount of alumni and family ties I have to this program are a big piece," Kandiyeli said. "But overall they have just shown me love since I’ve been recruited and even though it’s been a little rocky with their staff, they’ve kept the communication. And for me personally, as a player and student, they have everything I need to grow and succeed to build my future."

Hamilton LB Brown commits to Arizona

Nov. 28, 2022

Chandler Hamilton outside linebacker Taye Brown announced on social media Monday that he has committed to the University of Arizona.

Brown, 6-foot-3, 215 pounds, had 91 tackles, 10 sacks, two interceptions and 14 quarterback hurries for the 8-3 Huskies, who lost to Saguaro in the Open Division state quarterfinals.

Lake Havasu's Stopke commits to Drake

Nov. 10, 2022

Lake Havasu running back Isaac Stopke gave Drake a commitment to play football. He announced it on social media Thursday.

"I’m very excited to get to Iowa and continue my academic and athletic career," the 6-foot, 215-pound Stopke said. "I love the coaching staff, the area, and the education."

Stopke, a tough back and linebacker for the 4A Knights, said he will play more of a fullback or all-purpose back role at Drake.

Mountain Ridge's Aguilar commits to Drake

Nov. 3, 2022 

Glendale Mountain Ridge outside linebacker/defensive end Christian Aguilar announced on social media Thursday that he has committed to play football at Division I Drake University.

He said Drake began recruiting him during the Pinnacle spring football showcase in May.

"They have a great business program and that’s what I’m looking to get my degree in," Aguilar said. "The coaches and atmosphere was the right for me. I’m thankful for the opportunity."

Aguilar, 6-foot-1, 220 pounds, has 32 tackles, two interceptions, two caused fumbles and one fumble recovery during 4-4 senior season.

Saguaro QB commits to New Mexico

Scottsdale Saguaro dual- threat senior quarterback Devon Dampier announced Wednesday that he will play college football for the New Mexico Lobos.

He said that New Mexico was the first college to offer him a scholarship his junior year.

"They've been in contact more than any other school," Dampier said. "They showed me love from the beginning."

Dampier, 6-foot, 185 pounds, said that will be finishing his high school academic requirements in December and will be in Albuquerque in the spring, competing for the starting job. He has a 3.85 grade-point average. He said he also considered going to Yale.

"They do a lot of read option," Dampier said. "They're not afraid to run their quarterback.

"I have the opportunity to start my freshman year. I've got to learn the offense."

Dampier led Saguaro to its first Open Division state football championship last season, showing off his strong running moves and passing arm in wins over Cactus, Hamilton and Chandler.

This season, he has passed for 1,038 yards and eight TDs and run for 567 yards and five TDs in Saguaro's 3-3 start, playing against the toughest competition in the state.

Marcos de Niza LB Stromstad commits to Southern Utah

Oct. 10, 2022

Tempe Marcos de Niza senior athlete Mason Stromstad, 6-foot-2, 200 pounds, who can make an impact on offense and defense, announced he has committed to Southern Utah University.

Stormstad, who plays linebacker on defense, has 20 solo tackles, and six tackles for losses, helping the Padres to a 5-0 start in 4A. He also has two sacks.

He said he will play linebacker at SUU.

"I loved how the coaches conduct themselves," Stromstad said in a direct message on Twitter. "Anytime any coach talked to me it felt like I was part of a family. That was something important to me.

"Attending the junior day and watching practice, I loved how competitive every group was. Everyone wants to win. I also love how much Arizona kids they are bringing in. it’s amazing. But overall, I just loved everything about the school and program and how they do things up there. Words can’t describe how excited I am."

Hamilton DB/PR Cooper LeDuc commits to Southern Utah

Oct. 8, 2022

Chandler Hamilton defensive back/punt returner Cooper LeDuc announced he has committed to Southern Utah to play football

LeDuc, 5-10, 165, has been a key player the last two seaons for the Huskies' Open Division playoff teams. This season he has 15 tackles,

He has returned six punts for 118 yards, a 19.7-yard average.

"I really liked the camp and the coaching staff," LeDuc said. "They were very engaging and glad to have me. I also like that they are a new staff and rebuilding. I can’t wait to be a part of that."

Pinnacle OL Elijah Paige changes commitment to USC

Oct. 3, 2022

Phoenix Pinnacle offensive lineman Elijah Paige announced on social media Monday that he has committed to USC. He visited the school over the weekend when the Trojans took on Arizona State at the Coliseum.

Paige, the top-rated offensive lineman this season by The Arizona Republic, had parted with Notre Dame last week. Paige had committed to Notre Dame on June 10.

Paige, 6-foot-7, 305 pounds, is a four-star recruit by 247 Sports Composite. He was offered by both ASU and Arizona.

Basha DE Tyson Simmons commits to Navy

Oct. 3, 2022

Chandler Basha defensive end Tyson Simmons became the sixth Basha senior to commit to a Division I college.

Simmons, 6-3, 235 pounds, announced his commitment on social media.

He has 19 tackles, two pass deflections and seven quarterback hurries helping Basha start the season at 5-0

Chandler DL Washington commits to Oregon

Sept. 2, 2022 

After Chandler's 63-7 win at Cathedral Catholic in California last Friday, senior defensive lineman A'mauri Washington announced he committed to the Oregon Ducks to play college football.

Washington, 6-foot-5, 290 pounds, is one of the top defensive linemen in the country. He had a sack that caused a fumble that was returned 94 yards for a touchdown by safety Kennedy Urlacher in the season-opening win.

Washington made an immediate impact last year when he moved from the Detroit area, helping Chandler reach the Open Division state final.

Last week, he had five solo tackles, an assisted tackle, two sacks and four tackles for losses. He also batted down a pass and had two quarterback hurries for the Wolves (1-0), are ranked No. 8 in the nation by MaxPreps.

"He's a dominating force as both a run supporter ad pass rusher," coach Rick Garretson said. "His skill set allows him to be disruptive to our offensive opponents."

Hamilton's Smith becomes first in-state to commit to Arizona

Aug. 27, 2022

Chandler Hamilton free safety Genesis Smith on Saturday night announced on social media that he will be playing college football at the University of Arizona.

Smith, 6-foot-2, 188 pounds, is the first in-state player from the 2023 class to commit to the Wildcats.

He has 18 college football scholarship offers, including Colorado State, Iowa State, San Diego State, Washington, Washington State and Oregon State.

"One of the main things that made me chose Arizona over some other schools I had was just the family feel they brought," Smith said. "Everyone is united and you can tell that the program is definitely trending upward.

"I like how they would utilize me up there, as well, and the plan they have is to change my body and help me play at a higher level."

Smith had 40 tackles, four interceptions, a caused fumble and a fumble recovering last season, helping the Huskies reach the Open Division state semifinals.

Red Mountain WR Lane commits to USC

Aug. 26, 2022 

Mesa Red Mountain 6-foot-5, 175-pound wide receiver Ja'Kobi Lane, a four-star recruit, announce Friday on Twitter that he's going to USC to play college football.

Last year, he caught 76 passes for 990 yards and 14 touchdowns for the 11-3 Lions.

USC recently offered Lane, who was enthralled right away.

"It wasn't like they offered me and waited after a couple of days to talk like other schools," Lane said in a message. "When they showed interest and offered me they really were on me and wanted me bad. It was like I talked to them every day and over those days the relationship grew more and more."

Lane is looking forward to playing for coach Lincoln Riley at USC.

"Coach Riley has been known for being a great mentor and a great coach so I know no matter what, football aside, what I'm going into is a healthy, structured place that is going to prepare me the best for what I want to do in my life and what I see the best path for me," Lane said.

Chaparral DL Gavin Geweniger commits to Stanford

Aug. 21, 2022

Scottsdale Chaparral defensive end Gavin Geweniger, 6-foot-5, 255 pounds, announced on social media that he will play college football for the Stanford Cardinal.

"Really excited for him," Chaparral coach Brent Barnes said. "I feel it's a great fit with the culture of that program.

"He's a high-academic kid, leader, and captain of our team with great work ethic."

Geweniger chose the Pac-12 school over Arizona, Washington, San Diego State and Colorado.

Geweniger added more than 20 pounds since his junior season, when he had 39 tackles and six sacks. He rated the No. 4 defensive lineman to see in the state this 2022 season by The Arizona Republic.

"He's much improved through the offseason with added weight and athleticism," Barnes said. "I can't wait to see how he performs this season for us."

Mountain Ridge DE Kirkland commits to Cornell

Aug. 21, 2022

Jason Kirkland, a 6-foot-4, 230-pound defensive lineman at Glendale Mountain Ridge, announced on social media he has committed to playing college football at Ivy League Cornell.

Kirkland had six sacks during his junior season.

Liberty OL Layton Vining commits to Idaho

Aug. 5, 2022

Peoria Liberty offensive lineman Layton Vining announced on social media that he is headed to Idaho to play college football.

This comes a few days after Liberty defensive lineman announced he has committed to Pac-12 Oregon.

"I loved how the new staff is approaching this rebuild of the program and how fired up they all are to start winning football games," Vining said. "Since I first went onto campus they showed a lot of love and have made me feel wanted since the start."

He said he will likely play center for the Vandals.

"I’ve built a great relationship with Coach (Cody) Booth, the O-line coach, and he quickly became someone I wanted to be coached by," he said. "I’m excited for what they’re building up there and love to see the all-in mindset they all have."

Vining, 6-foot-3, 260 pounds, has been a fixture on Liberty's line the past two seasons, helping the Lions reach the Open Division semifinals in 2020 and '21, where they took Chandler into overtime both times.

Sunrise Mountain QB Glimpse commits to South Dakota school

Aug. 4, 2022

Peoria Sunrise Mountain quarterback Austin Glimpse, who transferred from Peoria Centennial, announced on social media that he has committed to playing college football at South Dakota School of Mines.

Glimpse, 6-foot-6, 215 pounds, passed for 1,152 yards and three TDs last season for the Coyotes.

Liberty DL My'Keil Gardner commits to Oregon

Aug. 3, 2022

Peoria Liberty defensive lineman My'Keil Gardner announced his commitment to Oregon on social media Wednesday.

Gardner, 6-foot-3, 275 pounds, is one of the quickest, fiercest and most versatile defensive linemen in the country. He can line up over center or on the edge.

Last season, he had 86 tackles and 10 sacks, helping the Lions reach the Open Division semifinals, before falling in overtime to Chandler.

He had 24 tackles for losses and knocked down five passes at the line of scrimmage. He is the third-ranked defensive lineman in the state by The Arizona Republic, entering the 2022 season. 

He had 21 college scholarship offers with Texas, Michigan, Wisconsin and California also among his top choices.

Queen Creek LB Porter Reynolds commits to NAU

Aug. 1, 2022

Queen Creek linebacker Porter Reynolds, one of the strongest high school football players in the state, gave Northern Arizona a commitment.

Reynolds, 6-foot, 225 pounds, has mostly played defensive end at Queen Creek because of his quickness.

He has amassed 228 tackles and 10.5 sacks in his varsity career.

O'Connor's Davis commits to Kansas State

July 25, 2022

Phoenix Sandra Day O'Connor tight end/defensive end Ryan Davis announced he will be playing college football at Kansas State.

Davis, 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, is one of the top tight ends in the state, but he projects as an edge rusher on defense at K-State.

Coach Brian Cole will likely utilize Davis on both offense and defense.

Davis had 6.5 sacks and 26 tackles last season as a junior.

Mountain View's Bowers commits to BYU

July 22, 2022 

Mesa Mountain View tight end Jackson Bowers, 6-foot-5, 225 pounds, announced his commitment to play football at BYU on Friday.

The four-star, rated the No. 2 tight end in Arizona behind Pinnacle's Duce Robinson by The Arizona Republic, also considered Washington, Arizona, Oregon, Auburn and Ole Miss.

He caught 47 passes for 861 yards and five touchdowns last season. He starts in the post on the basketball team.

"I chose BYU over Bama, Auburn, Oregon, Ole Miss, Washington and Arizona," Bowers said. "It was definitely a hard decision, but BYU stood out because it is very familiar to me and growing up I was in Provo a lot.

"The football side of it is that BYU gives me an opportunity to hit the field quickly so if I work hard enough that is a strong possibility."

Red Mountain DL Braeden Kaczmarek commits to NAU

July 21, 2022

Mesa Red Mountain defensive lineman Braeden Kaczmarek has chosen to play college football at Northern Arizona in Flagstaff.

Kaczmarek, 6-4, 260, also is a top baseball player and thrower in track and field. He is a versatile defensive lineman who can play tackle and end.

He had 29 tackles and five sacks last season.

"My reason for committing to NAU is they just showed me so much love and they were really consistent with calling me and texting me and just made it feel like home," Kaczmarek said. "They were also close to my home and my family. They can come up any moment and visit me whenever so it just felt right."

Basha RB/DB Buchanan commits to Idaho

July 20, 2022

Running back/defensive back Deshaun Buchanan became the fifth Chandler Basha 2023 football player to commit to a Division I college. He announced his commitment to the University of Idaho on Wednesday.

He joins cornerback Cole Martin (Oregon), offensive lineman James Durand (Wisconsin), linebacker Wyatt Milkovic (Boise State) and offensive lineman Ryan Blum (Central Michigan) as Bearsh who have committed.

Buchanan, 6-foot, 195 pounds, is a talented two-way player who is capable of excelling on either offense or defense for the Vandals.

He ran for 731 yards and 12 TDs, averaging 7.2 yards a carry last season as a junior. He had 48 tackles and a forced fumble on defense.

Red Mountain Athlete Lennox Lawson commits

July 8, 2022

Lennox Lawson, one of the state's top all-around athletes on the football field, gave a commitment to Division I Central Michigan.

Lawson plays receiver, running back, defensive back and is one of the best kick returners in the state.

Coconino linebacker commits to BYU

June 28, 2022

Pierson Watson, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound senior linebacker, announced on social media Tuesday that he has committed to playing football at BYU.

Watson was offered a scholarship from BYU, along with Nevada, Air Force, Northern Arizona and South Dakota.

"BYU has it going on!" Watson wrote in a direct message on Twitter. "Coaches, campus, winning games, BIG 12, NIL opportunities, LDS school, Linebacker U- it’s just a great fit for me."

Watson last season had 45 tackles, 34 solo tackles, two sacks and a fumble recovery, playing nine games.

Basha center Blum commits to Central Michigan

June 22, 2022 

Central Michigan might have gotten a steal with Chandler Basha center Ryan Blum giving the coaches a commitment to play football there.

Blum, 6-foot-2, 290 pounds, considered the state's top high school center, has eight offers, including Air Force, Columbia, Georgetown, Northern Arizona and New Mexico State.

Central Michigan beat Pac-12 Washington State in the Sun Bowl last season.

"I loved the family atmosphere," Blum said. "All the coaches, players, and everyone I was able to interact with made me feel at home. I felt an immediate connection with the offensive line coach, Coach (William) Vlachos. He was a three-year starting center at Alabama, won 2 national championships, and has nearly identical measurables to me.

"Coach (Jim) McElwain is really doing great things with the program, including beating Washington State in the Sun Bowl last year. I can really see myself contributing to help CMU win a MAC championship in the years to come."

Basha coach Chris McDonald said that Central Michigan is getting a "beast" of a player.

"Fantastic kid that excels in everything that he pursues," McDonald said. "Extremely smart, competitive, great football IQ and has college strength already. Chippewas are getting a really good student-athlete who will be a great ambassador for that school and program."

Hamilton center commits to Air Force

June 20, 2022 

Chandler Hamilton center/long snapper Griffin Stalfort has committed to the Air Force Academy. Stalfort, 6-foot-2, 280 pounds, said there were several factors for why he chose the military route with Air Force.

"A top tier and stable coaching staff," he said. "Strong brotherhood culture throughout college and beyond. A program dedicated to preparing you for success not only in football but In your future as well. Strong academics."

Hamilton coach Mike Zdebski is proud of Stalfort's decision.

"Griffin is the person you want defending and representing your country," he said.

QB Damante commits to NAU

June 14, 2021

American Leadership Gilbert North quarterback Adam Damante, after a visit to the school, gave Northern Arizona a commitment to play football there.

He becomes the first 2023 quarterback from an Arizona high school to commit to a Division I college. Chandler QB Dylan Raiola is a 2024 prospect who committed to Ohio State.

"NAU took me on a visit and me and my family love it," Damante said. "The coaches really love me and are willing to give me a chance to start as a freshman. They are also building something very special up there and I can’t wait to be a Lumberjack."

NAU was the only offer for Damante, 6-foot-2, 180 pounds, who is a dual threat. He has run a sub-11-second 100 meters during track. Last season, he passed for 3,382 yards and 46 TDs with six interceptions, completing 226 of 348 passes. He ran for 305 yards and five TDs.

"Adam can do it all," ALA GN coach Randy Ricedorff said. "He has great speed, a quick release, and he is very accurate. Most importantly, he is a winner. He expects excellence from himself and those around him.

"He has been training to each this goal since he was 6 years old. It's always awesome to watch individuals accomplish their goals. It has truly been a consistent commitment from Adam and his army of supporters."

Sierra Linda WR commits to Colorado State

June 12, 2022

Phoenix Sierra Linda wide receiver Stephon Daily, who made The Republic's All-Arizona team after a breakout junior season, announced on social media Sunday that he has committed to play at Colorado State.

Daily, 6-foot-4, 185 pounds, surpassed 1,000 receiving yards last season with dazzling moves, great hands and elite speed on his way to the end zone, leading the Bulldogs to the best season in school history with an 8-2 record.

Daily thanked everybody who helped him along the way in his football journey to reach his college decision.

"I've decided that Fort Collins is a great fit and will allow me to grow as a young man and student-athlete," Daily said in his post on Twitter.

He is ranked fifth among the Too 10 wide receivers for the 2022 high school football season by The Arizona Republic.

"They definitely stood out and I love the unity there and knowing they're here for us players to feel like family," Daily said. "They are also a throwing team and I'm high on their recruiting list as I'll play a great role in the offense.

"I'm very excited. I like the coaches, the environment and the people and players around. The reaction from all the coaches were beyond joyful and were all pumped for me to become a future Ram."

Elijah Paige commits to Notre Dame

June 10, 2022

Phoenix Pinnacle offensive tackle Elijah Paige is following the footsteps of another Pinnacle lineman to the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.

Paige, 6-foot-7, 305 pounds, announced his commitment to the Fighting Irish on social media Friday. He is rated the fifth-best prospect in Arizona by The Republic in the Big 150 2023 football rankings.

Paige will be joining former Pinnacle offensive lineman Tosh Baker, a high school All-American whose picture was on display in a Notre Dame football promotion in the Valley in the spring of 2021.

Baker was Paige's host during his recruiting visit last weekend to South Bend.

Paige is the most coveted 2023 offensive lineman in Arizona with 34 offers.

"I’d say it is the mix of education and football," Paige said about why he chose the Fighting Irish. "You won’t find another place is the country, where you can get an Ivy League-type education and compete for a national title every year."

Perry DE Herring commits to Air Force 

June 5, 2022

Gilbert Perry defensive end Aiden Herring gave the Air Force Academy a commitment to not just play football but to serve his country.

The 6-foot-3, 255-pound senior is one of the best pass rushers in the state in any class coming into the 2022 high school football season.

He had 57 tackles and 12 sacks last season as a junior.

"After being in contact over phone calls and through Twitter with the whole staff and then finally being able to visit the university, it was a pretty easy decision to make," Herring said in a direct message on social media. "Everything from the people, to the academics, to life after football, and especially the extremely successful football program, all made my commitment a no brainer. That all made me go this route.

"As far as family in the military, the only people that served were my grandpa and uncle who both served together in the Marines. And in this commitment, I saw an amazing opportunity to earn a prestigious degree, be coached up by the best coaches in all of CFB, and be set up for my life after football when it eventually ends. Not to mention going out and bringing some Mountain West Championships back to Colorado Springs."

Saguaro's Shivers commits to Northwestern

May 18, 2022 

Scottsdale Saguaro defensive back Cole Shivers announced his commitment to Northwestern on social media on Wednesday.

Shivers, 5-foot-11, 170 pounds, is a thee-star recruit by 247Sports Composite, ranked as the 81st-best cornerback in the nation in the 2023 class.

He is the third straight Valley high school football player to commit to the Big 10 school this week. The others are Centennial defensive lineman Dylan Roberts and Mountain Ridge offensive lineman Alex Doost.

Shivers led Saguaro to the Open Division state championship last season when he had 31 tackles and five passes defended.

"I'm very excited for Cole to continue his academic and athletic career at Northwestern," Saguaro coach Jason Mohns said. "He had his choice of some elite schools, but ultimately the elite academics and the opportunity to play for Coach Fitzgerald was too good to pass up.

"Northwestern is getting an elite cover corner, who excels in both man and zone coverages. A tremendous leader and communicator with an off-the-charts football IQ."

OL Doost commits to Northwestern

May 17, 2022

Two days after Northwestern got a commitment from Centennial defensive lineman Dylan Roberts, the Wildcats landed a commitment from Glendale Mountain Ridge offensive lineman Alex Doost.

Doost, 6-foot-6, 295 pounds, has been a mainstay of Mountain Ridge's offensive line since his sophomore year.

He had 17 offers, including California, Arizona State, Michigan State, Arizona and BYU.

Doost said he was on the same recruiting trip at Roberts last week.

"What impressed me the most was how down to Earth all the people were there," Doost said. "They made me feel like family."

Mountain Ridge coach Doug Madoski said that Doost worked hard to get to this point in his life on the football field.

"The work ethic and drive to be great has a lot to do with the accolades and opportunities that he currently finds himself in," Madoski said. "Finding guys with talent and size isn't the secret to success. It's finding those guys that also possess an inner drive to maximize their abilities. Alex works tirelessly at his craft on the field, in the weight room and equally important in the classroom."

DL Dylan Roberts commits to Northwestern

May 15, 2022 

Peoria Centennial defensive lineman Dylan "Jett" Roberts, 6-foot-3, 285 pounds, committed to Northwestern over the weekend during his visit to the Illinois school.

"What stood out most to me is the staff and the guys," Roberts said. "Everyone loved where they were and it’s really a family.

"Coach Fitz (Pat Fitzgerald) is an amazing coach, mentor, and man. The facilities are definitely a bonus, but the main reason I committed is the family."

A three-star recruit, Roberts had six offers, including Arizona, Washington State, Colorado and California.

Basha OL James Durand commits to Wisconsin

May 6, 2022

Chandler Basha's 6-foot-6, 280-pound tackle James Durand announced on social media Friday morning that he has committed to Wisconsin to play football.

Durand wrote on Twitter:

"I want to thank basha football and basha high school. I want to thank Coach Kelly for everything. Lastly my family. I’m beyond excited to say that I have committed to further my education and football career at the University of Wisconsin! Joshua 1:9 Romans 11:36 #OnWisconsin"

Durand has been a mainstay of Basha's offensive line since his freshman year.

"He went there (to Wisconsin) and had an unofficial and really enjoyed their culture," Basha coach Chris McDonald said. "It's a big-time program, especially for linemen. He connected well with the coaches and the head coach.

"It's kind of his cup of tea with the type of mental makeup he has. He felt strongly about it and wants to focus on his senior year."

McDonald said Wisconsin may move Durand inside, but believes he can play all five positions across the offensive line.

Williams Field WR Kyler Kasper commits to Oregon

April 17, 2022

Kasper, 6-foot-5, 205 pounds, ranked No. 4 overall by The Arizona Republic in the 2023 Big 150, is one of the most skillful and athletic, physical wide receivers in the country.

But moments after he declared for Oregon, it was reported that Kasper was reclassifying to start his college career this fall with the Ducks. 

He had nearly 30 college football scholarship offers, including Ohio State and Notre Dame.

He caught 51 passes for 943 yards and nine touchdowns last season. It didn't matter if he was double-teamed, Kasper's athleticism put separation on defenders to allow him to make big catches in clutch moments.

He comes from a football pedigree. His father Kevin Kasper was a standout wide receiver at the University of Iowa, who played in the NFL.

Basha LB Wyatt Milkovic commits to Boise State

April 8, 2022

Milkovic, 6-1, 234 pounds, has had nine college offers, but he felt at home at Boise State, which will likely use him at inside linebacker. He was a tackling machine for the 10-1 Bears last season, when amassed 132 tackles, 11 for losses, including 4.5 sacks.

Coach Chris McDonald said Milkovic still is relatively new to play inside linebacker and will only get better.

"Wyatt will bring a tough, hard-nose approach to Boise State," McDonald said in a text. "He lives in the weight room and is constantly working on his craft as a linebacker."

Horizon TE Matthew Klopfenstein commits to Baylor

April 7, 2022

Klopfenstein, 6-5, 230, is a great fit with the Baylor Bears. His visit was remarkable. "The coaches were so welcoming, and it felt like home when I walked in," he said in a direct message.

He'll be able to make an impact catching passes and blocking. Very versatile receiver who can play out wide or in tight, Klopfenstein keyed the Huskies 5A state championship season in 2021.

He has had more than 20 offers and is rated as the eighth-best prospect in the 2023 class by The Republic.

Basha DB Cole Martin commits to Oregon

Jan. 1, 2022

On New Year's Day, Basha 2023 cornerback/punt returner Cole Martin announced at his school his commitment to Oregon.

He had 27 major college scholarship offers, including Arizona State, Notre Dame, Alabama, Georgia, Arizona, USC, UCLA and Nebraska.

Oregon, in the end, had everything he wanted. It also helped that his father, Demetric Martin, who was recently hired as the defensive backs coach. Demetric came over from Colorado, where he served in the same capacity.

"He played a big part," Martin said. "But it was Coach Dan Lanning. He had recruited me at Georgia. I had a good relationship with him. Him being at Oregon made everything feel right. With my dad over there, with Coach Clem, Coach Dellingham, they all have great bonds with me."

Tanque Verde OL Jack Endean commits to OK State

Dec. 12, 2021

Tucson Tanque Verde 6-6, 280-pound offensive lineman Jack Endean was the first of the Arizona high school 2023s to commit to a Division I college before the calendar year flipped to 2022.

He is a tenacious, tough, hard-nosed tackle who sat out the first five games of his junior season after transferring from Tucson Salpointe Catholic.

To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at richard.obert@arizonarepublic.com or 602-316-8827. Follow him on Twitter @azc_obert.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona HS football recruiting: Where are players going to college?