Shannon Russell

srussell@enquirer.com

Xavier's men's basketball team on Saturday gained the final member of its Class of 2014 in Larry Austin Jr., a 6-foot-2 guard from Illinois.

Austin originally committed to Tennessee before coach Cuonzo Martin left for California. After being released from his National Letter of Intent and reopening his search late last month, he narrowed his choices to Cal and Xavier.

Austin visited Xavier last weekend and ultimately decided to fill its final scholarship.

"I just felt like Xavier was the right place for me. Since I got my release form from Tennessee, me and Coach (Chris) Mack have had a good relationship – and with my parents as well. They recruited me hard, and I wanted to come and be part of the family," Austin said.

Joining the highest ranked recruiting class in program history was another draw. Austin, rated a three-star prospect by Scout.com and Rivals.com, rounds out a cast that includes fellow rookies Trevon Bluiett, Makinde London, J.P. Macura, Sean O'Mara and Edmond Sumner.

Indiana transfer Remy Abell practiced with the team last season and also will suit up for the first time as a Musketeer.

"Since (the freshmen) are coming in at the same time, we can grow together and develop chemistry," said Austin, who already knows most of the rookies from AAU ball.

Known for being a vocal, pure floor general, Austin excels in finding the open man and is confident in his 3-point shooting. The Lanphier High School senior averaged 22.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 steals last season and is strong academically, boasting a 3.75 GPA.

For now, Austin is thrilled his college destination is settled.

"It's a big relief," Austin said.

Here's a look at Xavier's roster for next season:

XAVIER 2014-15 ROSTER

Dee Davis 6-0 G Sr.

Matt Stainbrook 6-10 C Sr.

Remy Abell 6-4 G Jr.

James Farr 6-9 F Jr.

Myles Davis 6-2 G So.

Brandon Randolph 6-1 G So.

Jalen Reynolds 6-9 F So.

Larry Austin Jr. 6-2 G Fr.

Trevon Bluiett 6-6 F Fr.

Makinde London 6-9 F Fr.

J.P. Macura 6-5 G Fr.

Sean O'Mara 6-9 C Fr.

Edmond Sumner 6-4 G Fr.