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Monday night, Charles Matthews surprised even those close to him by announcing that he had made a college decision. This morning, he surprised no one. Charles Matthews will play at the University of Kentucky.
The news that coach Cal had visited Matthews on Monday morning just before his surprise announcement gave away the secret. The Crystal Ball is 100 percent Kentucky, as are the forums and message boards. This one was obvious.
Matthews is currently the top ranked junior in the state of Illinois and the 11th ranked player in the nation. That number may ultimately fall--although this Kentucky signing validates it and may now keep it afloat--but the exact number is meaningless. He's 6-foot-6, 180 lbs, and a smooth, talented ball player.
Illinois won't be devastated by this miss. Aaron Jordan and D.J. Williams have the wing and shooting guard positions under control for the class of 2015. Missing out on a point guard for that class would hurt quite a bit, but Matthews only stings a little. We can get by without him.
Best of luck, Chuck.