Loyola landed its second huge local commitment in the Class of 2017 on Tuesday night as Larkin senior forward Christian Negron committed to the Ramblers.
The 6-foot-6 Negron has been a major force in the area the last three seasons before suffering a season-ending torn ACL at the end of September. Negron joins Jacobs big man Cameron Krutwig as Loyola's Class of 2017 commitments.
"I trust Coach Moser and his staff. I feel like I can contribute to the success they've had the past two years," Negron said to CSN.
As a junior, Negron averaged 16.2 points, 11.8 rebounds, 4.2 blocks, 3 assists and 2.2 steals per game and he had a good summer with the Puerto Rican national team during the U18 FIBA Americas. Leading in the team in scoring and rebounding, Negron averaged 13.4 points, 13.6 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game including 23 points and 13 rebounds against the gold-medal winning United States.
The combination of Krutwig and Negron is significant for Loyola and head coach Porter Moser because it gives the Ramblers two players who could really thrive in the Missouri Valley Conference. Negron's athleticism and ability to play above the rim compliments Krutwig well and Krutwig's skill level as a passer and shooter should help give Negron space to operate.
Loyola has a lot to look forward to these next few seasons as they're continuing to get better and better recruiting area players to stay home.