Ranking the Contenders: Christian Fermin
Rivals150 forward Christian Fermin will announce his decision on July 3. Fermin, who plays for Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountain West High School and the New York-based PSA Cardinals grassroots organization, recently narrowed his list to include just five finalists.
Below, Rivals.com ranks said finalists in order of how likely they are to secure the power forward’s pledge when he announces his choice.
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2021 Rankings: Rivals150 | Team | Position
2022 Rankings: Rivals150 | Team | Position
2023 Rankings: Top 30
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1. VCU
The bond between Fermin and Mike Rhoades’ staff is strong and has been for some time. A couple weeks back, Fermin told Rivals that “VCU is standing out the most,” following his June 9 official visit. The Rams aren’t a lock to land the Pennsylvania-based star, but they do seem like the clear front-runner. Nothing is ever certain in recruiting, as Rhoades will have to hold off a couple high-major programs to seal the deal, but VCU fans should feel optimistic as we approach decision day.
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2. ST. JOSEPH'S
Possibly the biggest threat to steal Fermin from the Rams, the Hawks were the recipient of the forward's final visit. The school’s plan to develop Fermin as a wing also plays in its favor. Head coach Billy Lange’s NBA pedigree piqued Fermin’s interest and is a major reason why the Hawks are among the frontrunners to land his pledge. Lange and company have positioned themselves well down the stretch and could make a late move.
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3. TEMPLE
The in-state Owls have been a major player in Fermin’s recruitment for some time. His unofficial visit to the school featured a film session that allowed him to see exactly how he fits in with Aaron McKie’s system, which resonated with the 6-foot-10 prospect. A bond with assistant Jim Fenerty will also play in Temple’s favor, but the fact that he plans to announce his choice before taking an official doesn’t bode particularly well. Still, the Owls remain in the mix.
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4. PENN STATE
Fermin’s relationship with Penn State assistant Mike Farrelly goes back to Farrelly’s stint at Hofstra, where he was among the first to offer the Rivals150 prospect. Fermin’s visit to Penn State went as well as anyone could expect, as he seemed to hit it off with current Nittany Lion Jalen Pickett and other members of the squad. It would be a bit of a surprise if Penn State won this sweepstakes, but Fermin’s bond with Farrelly has kept the Nittany Lions afloat.
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5. PITTSBURGH
Pitt made things official with a scholarship offer roughly a week ago. And while Fermin has already visited campus, the Panthers may be a little too late to the party. The fact that Pitt waited until days after Fermin wrapped up his visit to extend an offer didn’t sit incredibly well with the three-star forward, but things on that front were patched up quickly. It seems as though Fermin is interested in the opportunity to play in the ACC, but the Panthers remain a bit of a long shot.