Entering his sixth season as head coach at Texas, Shaka Smart continues to recruit at a high level. Smart capped the Longhorns’ 2021 recruiting class on Wednesday by signing four players, Tamar Bates, Emarion Ellis, Keeyan Itejere and David Joplin, all from out-of-state, to National Letters of Intent.
“We’re very excited about the four young men who have chosen to join our Longhorn Basketball family,” Smart said. “First off, all four share a high degree of receptivity that will allow them to take advantage of coaching and progress quickly at the college level. They each bring distinct elements and a variety of talents to our program. All four possess tremendous character, come from a strong family background and fit very well with who we are.”
The class is ranked 16th by Rivals and 21st by 247 Sports.
Class of 2021 Texas Basketball Signees
Tamar Bates – Guard
6-5, 180 lbs.
IMG Academy (FL)
Emarion Ellis – Guard
6-5, 175 lbs.
Assumption High School – Davenport, Iowa
Keeyan Itejere – Forward
6-9, 190 lbs.
GRACE Christian School – Knightdale, N.C.
David Joplin – Forward
6-7, 215 lbs.
Central High School – Brookfield, Wisconsin
