The South Florida men’s basketball program got some good news Friday when Kell (GA) guard C.J. Brown announced his commitment to the Bulls and became the first member of the 2024 class to commit to Amir Abdur-Rahim.

Brown chose USF over offers from Georgia, Georgia State, Georgia Tech, Mississippi State, New Mexico State, Tulane and others. His relationship with the Bulls head coach was a key factor in his commitment.

“Me and him have really grown a bond over the years. I don't really look at him as a coach but more or less like a family member now,” Brown told BullsInsider.com during an April interview before talking about how Abdur-Rahim said he’d fit into his system. “He says he'll leave the ball in my hands and he trusts me to make the right play and do the right thing with the ball.”

In 14 Adidas 3SSB circuit games this year Brown averaged 9.8 points on 49.5 percent shooting, 4.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 2.5 steals according to Synergy Sports Technology.

Brown visited USF with his family June 29. He is currently at the 3SSB All-American Camp in Southern California and wasn’t immediately available for comment.

RUSS’ REACTION

Brown is a very athletic lead guard who can really get downhill and score at the rim. He is very good at drawing contact and is a creative finisher. I really like his effort on defense and the toughness he plays with. He has some Laquincy Rideau in his game but with more athleticism and a different body type.