APSU Sports: Austin Peay Men’s Basketball
Clarksville, TN – AJ Lynch, a 6-2 standout prep guard out of Mobile, AL, is the latest Austin Peay State University basketball signee.
As a senior at Blount High School, Lynch averaged 18 points, 10 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game. He was a two-time second-team all-region selection for Jeff Pope. A four-year starter, he was team’s most valuable player as a senior.
“One of things that really attracted us to him is he can play both the one (point guard) and two (shooting guard),” APSU coach Dave Loos said. “We were looking for that someone who could create a shot if he had to, but also plays unselfishly, something that is appealing to coaches. We really like that about AJ.
“He’s athletic and can handle (the ball). He also has good vision and I think he is especially good in transition. AJ competes on both ends of the floor. I think he has a chance to be a really good defender.
“He plays hard, he is just a good competitor.”
Lynch will be one of four freshmen in the Govs’ 2012-13 signing class. Not only did the Govs like Lynch’s basketball ability, they as well liked the chemistry he built with the returning Govs during his weekend visit.
“You go through all this and there is a guy or two out there that jumps out who is just a good fit for you,” Loos said. “That’s what it was with him. I think he is not only a good fit for us, but early when he was here he saw that this was a good fit for him. When AJ left he said he felt like these guys made him feel a part of the team right away. “
The Govs now have two backcourt (Lynch and Corey Arentsen) and two frontcourt prospects (Chris Horton and Preston Herring) to add to a bevy of returnees for next season. Although all four will have ample opportunity to contribute, Loos is not ready to gauge any of the quartet’s readiness for Division I basketball.
“Everyone has to make the adjustment (to this level) and they will too.”
2012-13 Austin Peay Men’s Basketball Incoming Class
Corey Arentsen, 6-5, 185, guard, Breese, IL. (Mater Dei HS)
Preston Herring, 6-7, 180, forward, Lester, AL. (West Limestone HS)
Chris Horton, 6-8, 195, center/forward, Decatur, GA. (Columbia HS)
AJ Lynch, 6-2, 170, guard, Mobile, AL. (Blunt HS)