The right fish, not the big fish
“Guys want to go somewhere where they feel loved, where they feel like they want to be a part of their own culture, and still have the same type of experience as a college athlete. And I think you get that coming to an HBCU,” he said.
So far only Howard has landed a five-star with the commitment of Makur Maker. But North Carolina A&T has picked up ESPN four-star Duncan Powell. Several other three-star prospects have committed to or have indicated that they are serious about playing at an HBCU. Woods doesn’t see that slowing down.
“It’s a trend that’s starting,” Woods said. “I think it’s good for everybody and I think it’s only going to get better as the years go on because now HBCUs are starting to hire some guys like myself who have had great basketball careers, or even pro careers. And kids want to be taught by the best.”
Woods knows the recruiting circuit well, and he knows that while landing high-profile players is exciting for fans, as a coach there are other things to consider as well. He wants a player who cares about Southern University basketball in addition to himself.
“It’s not just trying to go get the biggest fish. Because sometimes that big fish don’t fit. You’ve got to pick and choose because, when you do things, sometimes you get a big fish and they think it’s all about them,” he said.
Woods says what makes the addition of Maker great, besides his obvious skill, is the way that the freshman carries himself.
“I think he has great character. And I don’t think he’s going to come in and think he’s bigger than Howard. That’s what you have to do with these kids. Even though they are big time, they’re five-star players and they’re getting recruited by the Power Five schools, sometimes when they come down to our level, they think they’re bigger than the program. And then that becomes a problem.”