As we patiently wait on some of Gonzaga's priority targets to trim lists, set visits, etc, it seems like the Gonzaga staff is doing a little bit of hedging. Over the last few months we have seen two major targets arise for the Zags' backcourt: Jordan Mathews and Darin Johnson. Both had incredibly successful summers for their respective AAU clubs and that garnered them plenty of interest. As each prospect sorts through their new interest, Gonzaga's staff has explored the junior college ranks a bit and it sounds like they will be bringing one prospect in for an official:
6'7 wing Chris Griffin (Wabash CC) looking to visit Gonzaga, Kstate and Auburn next month per former aau coach Chris Ayers.
— Source Hoops (@SourceHoops) August 9, 2012
Griffin would would obviously be a member of the 2013 class and he would likely come in as a backup to Gerard Coleman if he were to sign with Gonzaga. Once Guy Landry Edi graduates, depth at wing will become a pretty large issue as Coleman is the only natural fit there since most expect Kyle Dranginis to spend more time at the off guard spot.
We don't know much about Griffin at this point. He was a member of the Murray State Racers during the 2010-11 season but transferred out after his freshman season after averaging two points per game in nine minutes. He has a good frame at 6'7'', 210 lbs. Judging by the other visits he looks to be setting up, it sounds like he is bound for a solid D1 program.
The question lingers now what this all means for 2013 recruiting. Obviously many conclusions will be jumped to now that the staff is looking at junior college guys. The staff has three scholarships left to play with in the 2013 class. It is important to remember that Gonzaga has been linked to numerous junior college prospect over the past several years and most have fizzled. With that said, we expect to learn a lot more about Chris and his connection with the Zags in the near future.