Two years ago FSU sank time and resources into recruiting a PF out of Milwaukee who was a stretch to qualify. Like Xavier Rathan-Mayes, Cinmeon Bowers didn't end up with enough qualifying course credits, and instead enrolled at Chipola JC in Marianna, FL. But the time and effort to recruit him early paid off today when Bowers became the first member of FSU's 2014 recruiting class.
In his time at Chipola, the 6-6, 250 lb power forward blossomed into a player who will likely be rated the No. 1 JUCO player in the nation. This is a huge recruiting coup for the Noles. The 247 Crystal Ball was 100% for Memphis.
Bowers is a space eating, athletic, PF with really good ball skills. The only real knock against him is his height, and his lack of a real perimeter game. He more than makes up for this by being tremendous in transition, and by an explosive (and aggressive) post game. He's the type of player who will knock you down and then dunk on you.
The commitment comes at a key time, as the live period (where coaches can visit recruits in person) began yesterday and ends right before the November early signing period. The majority of uncommitted players will come off the board in the next six weeks.
FSU also got the good news right before a huge recruiting weekend when SG Robert Johnson and SF/PF Josh Martin will be on campus for their official visits.
For daily updates, make sure to bookmark the 2014 FSU Basketball Recruiting Board.