Recruiting Report: Dalen Solomon (2018)
Even though John Hay’s explosive 6’5”-6’6” wing, Dalen Solomon (2018), hasn’t received an offer yet, there’s a range of college options that could open up for him soon.
“So far I’ve got interest from Alabama State, Alabama A&M, Asbury, West Virginia Tech, Alderson Broaddus, Saginaw Valley State … Ashland, Marietta, Oberlin, Mount Union,” Solomon told Prep Hoops.
Solomon told us that eventually deciding what school to go to will be a “hard decision.” But, he’s began visiting campuses to figure out what he likes.
“[I’ve been to] Alabama A&M for an unofficial visit. Then, Mount Union scheduled me for an official visit, but I didn’t get a chance to go,” Solomon said.
What did he think of his visit down south?
“I really loved it. I have a lot of family down there, so I really liked it … It was a really nice environment,” Solomon said.
During our interview, Solomon also mentioned that he would like to move away from northeast Ohio for college.
We also touched on other programs that are recruiting him, specifically Mount Union and Asbury.
“We’re trying to reschedule [the visit] now. We’re trying to find a day that works for the both of us. They’re actually trying to come to one of my work-outs on Saturday,” Solomon said, in regards to Mount Union.
“Asbury talks to me a lot. I talk to the coach from Asbury regularly. I really get a lot of interest from all the schools.”
There is no timetable for Solomon’s decision. He is just hoping to find a suitable environment, preferably “a bigger environment where everyone is involved with the sports and sports teams.”
Interest from programs is exciting; but, the lack of scholarship offers has lit a fire inside Solomon.
“That’s why I’m hoping for a big senior year this year. Me and Nigel [Martin] are really looking to go far this year,” Solomon said.
While Solomon’s athleticism and strength allow him to be a strong rebounder and defend both forward spots at 6’5”-6’6”, he’s looking to build on perimeter skills right now.
“I’m just working on my handle. I’m coming into more of a guard role this year, as far as the team goes. I just been working on my handles,” Solomon said.
Considering his ability to switch onto multiple positions on defense, Solomon’s recruitment could pop if he shows improvement on the perimeter.
As a senior, Solomon is also adapting to more leadership responsibilities.
“I kind of played the background a little bit to my seniors last year. But this year, I picked up a way bigger leadership role … I’m comfortable with it,” Solomon said.
It will be interesting to see how Solomon and Nigel Martin mesh as the primary options for John Hay this season. In meantime, Solomon, a 2.8 GPA student, will be awaiting his ACT score and developing his jumper and ball-handling.