Coached by former NBA player and Syracuse great Jason Hart, the Taft Toreadors, led by talented big man Anthony January, have been spanking opponents on their way to a potential state championship.
January and his teammates undoubtedly benefit from the knowledge and wisdom that Jason Hart brings to the table. There aren’t many future college level athletes that can glean first hand insight from a coach that carved out a long NBA career.
Taft faced off against Clovis West in the Southern Division State Playoffs on their home court. The game plan against Clovis West was clear… get the ball inside to the budding superstar AJ and let him go to work. January was in full beast mode Wednesday night, leading the Toreadors with 17 points in a 84-54 thumping.
CLA caught up with Anthony after the game to get his thoughts on the lopsided victory.
“It’s always like that. Most of the teams in high school basketball aren’t that big. So Coach always tells us to take advantage of that.”
Anthony January has withdrawn his commitment to UTEP and opened up his recruitment process. Concerning his recruitment status, January indicated that several schools have shown interest.
“A few big schools, actually. Memphis just offered me, Gonzaga, UNLV, San Diego State and a few Pac-12 schools like Colorado, USC and Oregon. My top three right now would be UNLV, San Diego State and probably SC.”
A determining factor in January’s decision is the proximity to family and friends.
“I want them to be able to come out and watch me play…it just gives me overall a better feel…I love being around my family.”
January’s friendship with USC defensive tackle and former Taft standout Antwaun Woods could give the Trojans a potential advantage.
“Antwaun, I talk to him a lot actually, me and him are pretty cool, good friends. Actually he kind of told me Coach (Coach Kevin O'neill) would really like to have me come down here
“I have no problem, I would love to be at USC…if it works out it works out.”
No matter where Anthony January decides to continue his basketball career, CLA expects him to enjoy great success at the collegiate level. We look forward to following Anthony and his future endeavors.
