Mooney back on the market
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The lone member of Florida's 2016 recruiting class, three-star big man John Mooney, has reopened his recruitment according to his father Kevin Mooney.
"John did open up his recruitment," the elder Mooney said. "Johnny committed to Billy [Donovan] when he was a fifteen year old. Billy had seen him play a good number of times over a couple of years. So it was a real easy and comfortable decision for Johnny and for us."
Then things changed in Gainesville. First Florida assistant coach) Matt McCall left the program to accept the head coaching position at Chattanooga. Then Donovan stepped down as Florida head coach, following the second live period in April this year, to accept an offer with you Oklahoma City Thunder.
"Since all these changes have occurred over the past few months, first Matt and then Billy. Johnny just thought it was a good idea to explore and ensure he selected the best institution for him," Mooney said.
The No. 132 ranked prospect in the Rivals150, Mooney became Florida's first commit in the 2016 class on September 28, 2013 and attended Florida's Elite Camp on July 31. Afterwards he said, "It was good to finally meet the staff. I enjoyed the skill drills and playing against good competition."
A rising senior at Lake Brantley High School in Altamonte Springs, Florida, Mooney spoke to Florida head coach Mike White about his decision Tuesday night.
"Coach White was very, very professional about it," Mooney said. "Coach White is going to continue to pursue Johnny as a high priority recruit and Johnny is going to explore other opportunities to ensure the right fit. It may very well be the university of Florida. Johnny liked the coaches and they liked him."
Mooney, who did not play during the travel season this year, is a skilled 6-foot-10, 245-pounder with nice touch around the rim, good footwork and can handle the ball well for his position. On the low block he scores with a variety of post moves. Mooney has a great motor and has very good court vision which allows him to be an effective passer.
Although he declined to name schools, Kevin Mooney said programs from the ACC and Big 12 have already been in contact.
Russ Wood is a contributing national basketball recruiting analyst for Inside the Gators & Rivals. You can click HERE to follow him on Twitter.