Gonzaga Remains Heavily Involved With Donaven Dorsey

With transfers like Gerard Coleman and Angel Nunez becoming eligible next season, it's clear that the coaching staff has made length and athleticism on the perimeter a priority. This focus has continued with the 2014 recruiting class as well, with Timberline high school product Donaven Dorsey being one of the main targets.

Dorsey recently completed a tremendous junior season, which saw his high school team end its season with an appearance in the state tournament.

"Making it to state had a big impact on not just me, but the whole team," the 2014 wing emphasized. "We made a name for ourselves and really put our team on the map. It was a great experience and we had a really young team. With more experience and more years playing together, we can really do something great."

Like any young player, Dorsey continues to improve his game on the court. However, his biggest jump this season came as a leader.

"I think my biggest improvements this year were as a leader," said the Gonzaga recruit. "My freshman and sophomore year we had seniors and they ran the team. This year was my year to really become a captain and really just put the team under my wing."

With the AAU season set to kick off in April, the Timberline star is looking forward to facing some elite competition on the EYBL circuit with ICP.

"My focus is just to go out and play hard and get better. You are playing against the best players in the country and it's a great learning experience."

With the wing a huge area of focus for Gonzaga in 2014, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the coaches really made a push with Dorsey during his junior year.

"The relationship continues to get better," the Rivals 150 recruit explained. "They (the Gonzaga coaches) were at my games and showing their interest. They are always calling me and talking to me. It really shows they care. Coach Few has been talking to me a lot more and to have that means a lot."

Living just across the state, Dorsey was able to have a unique perspective on the historic Gonzaga season.

"That was great," Dorsey said of Gonzaga's success. "Coach Few and his staff, they work really hard, and they made it to the top. It was amazing to watch that and they brought me in and made it feel like I was part of it. It was really cool to be part of that."

Not surprisingly, his impressive season helped Donaven earn offers from Gonzaga, Portland St., Washington St., Washington and Oregon St.

"I wouldn't say that there is a school that is coming at me the hardest. I'm not saying that all of them are on me that hard. They are on me, but they are mellow about it because they know I am young and it's a big decision."

At this point, Dorsey isn't in a rush to take his officials visits or make decision. However, a trip to Spokane is something he plans to take before making a decision.

"I haven't really thought about officials yet because I still have my AAU season, so I'm just weighing my options on visits," the Gonzaga recruit explained. "I haven't been able to go visit (Gonzaga) yet. I might not have time to do that with all of my travel this summer, so if I can't, it's something I will do my senior year.