Labove Headed Ivy

November 28th, 2008
NewEnglandRecruitingReport.com

The big man from St. John’s High School in Massachusetts has made his decision, and he is headed to the Ivy League.

There is always a premium on big men in the world of recruiting.  But this year it seems to be even more intensified as the demand for quality post players is far exceeding the supply. 

So when Dartmouth was able to scoop up a commitment from a 6’9” big man who was flying a little bit under the radar, it was a good get for the Big Green. 

Matt Labove is headed to Dartmouth next year, where he will immediately become one of the biggest players on the Big Green’s roster. 

Labove offers a physical presence on the frontline as he is just as strong as he is tall.  He plays the game hard, isn’t afraid to bang in the paint, is a valuable post defender, and a strong rebounder.  Offensively, he scores the majority of his points in the paint using his strong body as well as some deceptive athleticism.  But he can also step out to 10-12 feet and knock down the jumper from the short corner or high post. 

He’s coming off a very successful junior season at St. John’s, where he helped to lead his squad all the way to the finals of the Division I MIAA Tournament before they were eventually stopped by Central Catholic.  Labove and his teammates are hoping that they’ll be able to take the final step in the star big man’s senior season. 

This past summer Labove played very well with his BABC South squad and drew the attention of quite a few division I coaches with his play at the AAU Nationals in Orlando.