Pitt Back on 2022 Big, Former NC State Commit Shawn Phillips

It’s no secret that Jeff Capel is looking to add at least one big man to his front court for next season and one became available on Sunday that he’s familiar with.

2022 4-star center Shawn Phillips (7’0″, 250) announced that he was de-committing from North Carolina State. Phillips, who listed “staff changes” as the reason for his decision, had been committed to the Wolf Pack since September 22

Phillips is from Dayton, Ohio, but has been playing for Dream City Christian in Glendale, Arizona. Currently, Phillips is ranked as the No. 10 player in Arizona and the No. 20 center in the country, according to 247Sports composite.

Following his decision to open up his recruitment, the Pitt coaching staff was one of the first programs to reach out to this talented big man. Capel is familiar with Phillips after personally offering him a scholarship back in June. Phillips spoke to PSN’s George Michalowski in June about his first conversation with Capel.

“Coach Jeff Capel called me,” Phillips told Pittsburgh Sports Now. “He said he has been watching me for a while and he likes my game. He said that Pitt needs a big that is of my caliber, and he gave me an offer. He said that he would love for me to play for him someday. “I am always excited when I get an offer,” he said about his reaction to the call. “I just thanked him for giving me the offer and told him we would stay in touch. I don’t know much about Pitt, but I am willing to learn.”

Pitt just offered 6’11 2022 four star center Shawn Phillips, his coach told @PghSportsNow.

Phillips is the No. 83 player in the nation according to 247. Holds offers from a long list of schools including Indiana, OSU, Illinois. Visited Illinois yesterday. pic.twitter.com/urwnQLMA4C

— George Michalowski (@MichalowskiCBB) June 7, 2021

According to 247 Sports’ Composite Rankings, Phillips is the No. 83 player in the nation and the No. 12 center in the nation. The powerful big man excels on the boards and has dominated on both sides of the ball at the high-school level. His strong build and explosive athleticism combine for plenty of rim-rattling dunks, which look like they will surely translate to the college game.

“I would say I am a great back-to-the-basket big, I am a good passer, a good shot blocker, a very good rebounder, and probably a top-five post defender in the country,” Phillips said about his game. “I am still working on my handles and my jump-shot.”

In the last couple days, aside from Pitt, Phillips has also been contacted by Washington State, Texas, Wisconsin, Maryland, Miami, SMU, Texas Tech and Kansas State.