Wesley Yates, the 20th ranked prospect in the 2023 class according to our rankings, has just announced his commitment to head coach Mike Hopkins and Washington. Yates is the first commitment for Washington out of the 2023 class.
Yates is one of the purest scorers in the country, showcasing his skills all last high school season and this past grassroots season. He looks to repeat as State Champions in his upcoming senior season at Beaumont United (TX).
In this interview, Yates breaks down his decision to commit to Washington.
Why Washington?
Wesley Yates: "Really just the player development. They are going to let me come in and play early. The coaching staff they can develop me into a pro. With some of the coaches playing in the league, I feel like they can help me get to the professional level. Me playing early and being able to come in and just do me as a freshman means a lot to me. The atmosphere and the family vibe that I get, it just felt right."
What does it feel like to be committed?
Wesley Yates: " It feels great. It is honestly just a big relief. I just worked my whole life for this moment. I am locked in with Washington and it's great to go to college for free."
What were the deciding factors that led to your decision to commit to Washington?
Wesley Yates: "They are going to let me play early. They also said they will let me play through my mistakes. They are going to help me grow up as a person and as a basketball player. I feel like me being away from home will allow me to grow a lot and depend on myself, it will allow me to be me. It will take the pressure off me. It helps me lock in on my end goal for real."
How does Washington plan to use you in their system when you arrive for your freshman season?
Wesley Yates: "Get buckets and do what I normally do. Just be me. Make shots. Play the most minutes that I can handle. They want me to create for myself and my teammates. Also they want me to be a great leader."
What was the recruiting pitch that Washington was telling you during the recruiting process?
Wesley Yates: "Really just come be a pro. Come train like a pro. Come in and do what I have to do and get out of there and go to league. Quincy was always telling me to go Washington so we could run the ones. I think the main pitch was come and be a better basketball player and maximize my potential. NIL is good everywhere but Washington has a different type of NIL."
What are is Washington getting in you as a player on the court and a person off the court?
Wesley Yates: "On the court, you are getting a bucket getter. I love to win. Bring the winning vibe and culture. They are getting a very passionate player. Off the court they are getting a laid back kid. I just like to chill."
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