So Clairton's Tyler Boyd announced yesterday that he will play next season at Pitt. It's like Boyd and Pitt got engaged, but Boyd let it be known he still wants to go on a couple dates with a few other girls.
Here is the situation: Boyd, the Post-Gazette Player of the Year, announced on NBC television yesterday during the U.S. Army All-American Bowl that he will play for Pitt next season. He was surrounded by family, friends and coaches when he made the announcement. But later in the day Boyd said he still plans to visit Michigan State and Tennessee.
Strange? Most definitely. But nothing in recruiting should surprise anyone these days.
Last night, Boyd sounded convincing about the reasons he picked Pitt. But then a few moments later he was talking about still visiting Michigan State and Tennessee. It sure is a head scratcher, so I asked, "If you announced for Pitt, then why are you still visiting Michigan State and Tennessee?"
Boyd answered: "I'm committed to Pitt, but I just want to still do a little more with the recruiting."
Boyd played for the East team in the All-American Bowl in San Antonio and caught 1 pass for 4 yards. (the photo of Boyd is from practice and courtesy of the All-American Bowl). But he believed he proved himself in practices before the game was played because he earned a starting receiver job for the East.
Boyd said he hopes to play basketball for Clairton after taking a week or two off.
"I think I have turf toe right now," Boyd said.
Boyd was all-section in basketball last season.
Foster and the All-American Bowl
Central Valley receiver Robert Foster was the leading receiver for his team in the Under Armour national all-star game Friday in St. Petersburg, Fla. Foster had four receptions for 66 yards.
Offensive linemen Dorian Johnson of Belle Vernon and Pat Kugler of North Allegheny also played on the same team as Foster.
Another Luther for 1,000
Hampton junior basketball player Ryan Luther scored his 1,000th career point Friday. He is the third member of his family to score 1,000. The others are older brother Bill and older brother Jodie.
Amazingly, the Luthers could end up with four 1,000-point scorers. Collin Luther, Ryan's twin brother, might go over 1,000 next season.
I don't ever remember a family in the WPIAL having four 1,000-point scorers.
Notice for basketball coaches/statisticians
The Post-Gazette plans to publish boys and girls basketball scoring leaders this week. Please send information for any player in the WPIAL or City League with a 14-point or higher average no later than Monday, Jan. 7. Include all games through Saturday, Jan. 5. Information must include player’s name, school, games played, total points and average. Send e-mail to highschool@post-gazette.com or fax to 412-263-1926.