Last month, it looked promising for Gophers men’s basketball coach Ben Johnson to land his highest-rated recruit yet. Four-star Wisconsin guard Amari Allen was considering Minnesota seriously, but he delayed his announcement, which was not a good sign.
Despite being impressed by Minnesota’s program during his official visit late last month, Allen ultimately chose Alabama on Tuesday.
The 6-7, 195-pound senior from Ashwaubenon High near Green Bay seemed to be leaning towards Minnesota after his visit, but he also took an unofficial trip to Alabama the same week. As time went on, it became increasingly likely that Alabama would win him over.
“It was the hardest decision of my life,” Allen told the Star Tribune. “I really like Coach Ben and everyone on his staff.”
Allen, ranked No. 52 nationally by Rivals, No. 53 by Prep Hoops, and No. 98 by 247Sports’ composite ranking in the Class of 2025, had other final choices including Central Florida, Mississippi State, Nevada, and Wisconsin.
Allen, a combo guard with attributes similar to recent 6-6 freshman guard Cam Christie, who was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2024, is noted for his size, athleticism, and playmaking skills.
However, Johnson did manage to kick off the U’s 2025 recruiting class with another promising guard prospect, three-star 6-5 Philadelphia senior Kai Shinholster, who also visited with Allen.
Shinholster mentioned after his commitment that he would have been open to playing alongside Allen. “Amari and I got to know each other on the visit,” he said. “We played in the same AAU circuit, so we were familiar with each other. I definitely could see us playing together in the future.”
Last week, the Gophers hosted 6-6 senior Keaton Wagler from Shawnee, Kan., for an official visit, though he also has a visit planned with Illinois this weekend.
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