On New Years Eve one of the best available prospects in North Carolina came off the board when 6’11” Jonathan Kurtas of Mooresville , NC/Lake Norman Christian committed to SIU-Edwardsville.

“It was the relationship the coaches developed with me and my parents.” Kurtas continued, “They kept in contact throughout and they made sure to get in touch with either me or my dad every couple of weeks, and through multiple zooms they were able to show me their program and their school”

Kurtas exploded on the scene this summer playing travel ball with Team Curry. Including SIU-Edwardsville, he picked up all seven of his offers since July.

Team Curry Head Coach Sim Frazier said, “Jon is a worker! He’s always in the gym trying to get better and is determined to succeed. Jon will help day 1 at SUIE just due to his competitive nature and physical tools.”

Kurtas is a big, and strong post player. He has good hands and understands his role on the floor with his ability to rebound his area, protect the rim and finish with both hands 15 feet and in.

Kurtas furthers Frazier’s sentiment, “They’ll be getting an aggressive player who can score dominantly in the paint but can also make the smart play from anywhere on the court.”

Kurtas is SIU-Edwardsville’s second commitment in the 2021 class joining Arkansas based point guard Zane Butler.