So what's the point of this "commit?" If he's still going on recruiting trips and is only "strong" on UCLA, how is that committed? Is there any reason for UCLA to hold a scholarship for him? For him to feel obligated to UCLA? Where's the commitment to each other? Is this some sort of recruiting gambit either by the player or by the University? I don't get this soft commitment and its benefit to either party.

I hear you on that note Lou. For ex. today I had a customer ask if she could by an extra set of a particular material just in case she needed it. She went on to say, and if I dont use it I can bring it back? What, seriously. This relates perfectly to Stevens commitment. Well, if dont get "x" offer then I will use your schollie, but, if "x" delivers i will no longer need your product and i can return it right? Such a werid vibe from the kid. I want him in bruin and gold, but damn I long for the Toledo days sometimes. (did i just say that?:) )

Committing and taking recruiting trips to other schools afterward has become commonplace. These kids often just want to have some fun, see some new surroundings, meet new people. I wouldn't be so hard on Stevens (or any recruit) that does this. Usually they come home more convinced than ever that they made the right choice initially.

Too true Mac. Aundre Dean before he changed his commitment to UCLA went to a Texas A&M football related event. I recall him being quoted afterward as stating he was made even more certain of his desire to change his commitment to UCLA which made him feel more at home. Hopefully he still feels that way on LOI signing day. lol

Upon further reflection, maybe Dean wasn't the best example. :0

Indeed, I understand taking trips after verbal commitment, however this seems to be an extreme. And add to it that his strong interest is directed toward USC, our crosstown rival. All the ingridents are present for a full cluster muck. I dont mind the trips, or the communication which occurs to verbally committed recruits, but I do mind a "placeholder" mentality. If he is wait for USC, let him wait without being committed to UCLA, extend the offer but dont commit untill all options of delivered. Either way, I want this Lineman in Bruin and Gold.

From Rivals: Hemet (Calif.) offensive lineman Hamani Stevens verbally committed to UCLA Saturday, but that commitment is as solid as the pillow he used to rested his head later that night. Struggling with the thought of bringing recruiting to a halt, Stevens wanted to redefine his pledge to the Bruins...

Sorry BruinChump, but my baby is just keeping you in his back pocket in case nothing better (like an offer from USC) comes along.

Keeping me in HIS pocket, haha ok. Well played, if we want to wear that dirty rag on saturdays, by all means take him. We found a way to beat you all with a bunch of USC rejects right? After that one touchdown performance against a 6-5, middle of the PAC Bruins team, you need all the help you can get on that side of the ball. Either way, our class looks damn solid. In addition, if this kid is only keeping us in his back pocket, why would he freak out by the number of schollies left and commit? Tough analyzing for a Trojoid, I know. Go Bruins.

Look, this kid is deciding on which university is best for him. I do not think that anyone should have a problem with that. If he goes to UCLA great, and if he doesnt then good for him, he found a school in which he feels is going to set him up for his future in whatever field that is.

Brian,

Can you give us any updated insight on what happened or is happening with Hamani Stevens and his "commitment"?

It seems like Hamani was under the impression that UCLA was pressuring him into the decision, while simultaneously feeling self inflicted pressure because of the lack of scholies. Overall, the coaches and Stevens met yesterday to smooth the tide. He seemed to come away happier after further discussing what he was feeling twd the UCLA coaches and vice versa. He is still very high and UCLA, stating further that if UCLA was reluctant in allowing him to take other official visits he would strongly rethink and most likely not take the trip. Parents love UCLA, he loves UCLA too, just not the right time to commit. His statement was something to the extent: I plan on recommitting after the summer: He seems like a great kid just being pulled in different directions.

Seems like I underestimated this kid, but in the end he knows how and WHEN to make the correct decision. GO Bruins