Darrell Arthur signs with KU

KU head basketball coach Bill Self announced the signing of Darrell Arthur, one of the nation's most highly touted recruits, to a National Letter of Intent. Arthur, a 6-foot-9 power forward from South Oak Cliff High in Dallas, Texas, announced his decision in a press conference on May 9.

As a 2006 McDonald's All-American, Arthur averaged 18 points, 10 rebounds and six blocked shots and lead his school to its second consecutive state title as a senior. According to rivals.com, he ranks 16th nationally among high school seniors and chose KU over Baylor and LSU.

"The Kansas basketball family is extremely excited to announce the signing of Darrell Arthur," Self said. "'Shady,' as he is nicknamed, was heavily recruited by schools across the country for the past two to three years. His decision to pick Kansas after such an intense recruiting period with many other good choices definitely will impact our program in an immediate way."

"Darrell is one of the premier athletes in America," Self continued. "He has excellent perimeter shooting skills and can certainly score in the post. His athletic ability and shot-blocking should make him a presence defensively. His versatility will definitely be a bonus for our team and will allow us to play with more interchangeable parts. Coaches James Mays [South Oak Cliff High] and Jazzy Hartwell [AAU] have done a great job of preparing him for the next level."

"I like the coaching staff and the environment," Arthur said at his press conference. "It was mainly Coach Self — I need a coach that will push me. I love the Kansas players and coaches and most of all the family atmosphere at KU."

Arthur joins recently signed players, Sherron Collins and Brady Morningstar, in the Jayhawks' 2006-07 freshman class.