G Gaddy to sign with Washington

Oct 29, 2008 - 7:12 PM SEATTLE (Ticker) -- After spurning Arizona, Washington's top basketball recruit has decided to stay home.

Abdul Gaddy, a guard for Bellarmine Prep in Tacoma, announced Tuesday night that he will sign a letter of intent next month to play at Washington.

Gaddy originally had committed to Arizona, but backed out when Wildcats coach Lute Olson retired on Thursday. The early signing period begins November 12.

Gaddy's father, Abdul Gaddy Sr., told the Seattle Times that his son was worried about the coaching situation at Arizona.

"We came back to the drawing board and (Washington coach Lorenzo) Romar has always been there," the elder Gaddy said. "He's followed him since he was a freshman in high school. And it will a great opportunity to play in front of family and friends. It was just kind of a no-brainer at the end."

Gaddy averaged 23 points per game last season at Bellarmine and was named Washington's Player of the Year. He led his team to a third-place finish in the state Class 4A tournament.

Gaddy, who does not turn 17 until January, also considered UCLA.