Kaiser narrows his list to 9 schools; Power says Virginia looks like a good fit for his game

By Jerry Ratcliffe

Two standout prospects visited Virginia basketball last week, and Tony Bennett is hoping to land commitments after they’ve had a chance to look over the program in person.

Jamie Kaiser Jr., a 6-foot-6 wing, announced over the weekend that he has narrowed his college list to nine programs: Virginia, Wake Forest, Miami, Indiana, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Iowa, Maryland and Boston College. He plans to announce his commitment the last week of June.

Kaiser is enrolled at Bishop Ireton in Alexandria and previously played at Lake Braddock High in Burke. He is a three-level scorer and a “sniper” from the 3-point line. Kaiser had a three-hour Zoom call with Bennett and staff in early May and quickly received an offer from the Cavaliers.

He enjoyed his visit to UVA and said he bonded further with the Cavaliers coaches.

Had a great time on my official visit to the University of Virginia! Thanks to coach Bennett and his staff! @UVAMensHoops pic.twitter.com/nSE10xAKf8

— Jamie Kaiser Jr (@J_Kaiser53) June 3, 2022

Meanwhile, 6-8 forward TJ Power of Worcester, Mass., visited Virginia last week and said he plans to visit Indiana on June 8 and Notre Dame on June 12.

Power told On3.com that he really liked the people he met and hung out with at UVA.

“I think Coach Bennett is a great coach and I have had some good talks with him,” Power said. “The mentality they have, playing good defense is something I pride myself on. Obviously, their defense is always stellar.

“The pace doesn’t bother me. I think they move the ball well and I don’t have a problem sharing the ball. Whatever the pace is there, I’m good with it. And they win, and I want to win, so I think it is a good fit.”

Power told On3 that all of the schools he visits have great facilities, so that’s a given.

“Where my choice will differentiate is the people there,” Power said. “The coaches and the players I interact with. Even the recruits coming in. I just want to feel comfortable with the environment I’m walking into and the players have confidence in everyone and they like each other. I’ll also want to go to an environment where everyone is working hard.”