Travis, Fells choose UIC

Updated: March 23, 2011 12:32PM

New UIC coach Howard Moore added two more Public League players to the fold by getting commitments from Curie point guard Greg Travis and Ahman Fells, a 6-6 wing from class 4A state champion Simeon.

Travis, a four year starter, is described by his coach Mike Oliver as a natural leader.

"He is a student of the game and his basketball IQ is off the chart," said Oliver. "He's been a starter since he walked in the building, he averaged 12 points, six assists and four steals, but it's intangibles that make him who he is."

Travis said he's confident he's making the right decision and that assistant coach Donnie Kirksey had an impact in his decision.

"I've known coach Kirksey for a while and he and coach Moore let me know that I was the type of player that they needed and wanted," Travis said.

Fells opened a lot of eyes last season as he help lead the Wolverines to the state championship.

Simeon coach Robert Smith said his selection shows that UIC is doing their homework.

"He's a great rebounder offensively and defensively," Smith said. "He would be starting on any other program in the city. But he is content to fill his role in order for us to be successful."

Fells said he appreciates the confidence that the UIC coaches have shown in him.

"Most teams wouldn't take a chance on a person that was not a starter," Fells said. "But they told me that know what type of player I am."

Young senior Luke Hager also committed Sunday. Hager gave an oral commitment to UNC-Wilmington, according to Young coach Tyrone Slaughter.

Contributing: Michael O'Brien

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