#OTRHoopsReport: In Focus with Phil Cofer – October 7, 2013

Editor’s Note: “In Focus” is a regular piece designed to give readers an in depth view of notable basketball players from around the country.

By: @JLHemingwayPSB

Phil Cofer, the No. 100 prospect in the nation as ranked by ESPN.com, gave his verbal commitment to the University of Tennessee in June of this year. Cofer gives Coach Cuonzo Martin much needed frontline depth for his Volunteers next year. With the graduation of 6-foot-8 forward Jeronne Maymon after this season, Cofer will have a chance to get early rotation minutes at Thompson Boiling Arena as a true freshman.

Cofer told OntheRadarHoops.com that he felt confident about his choice and happy to put the recruiting process behind him.
“It feels good to get the commitment out of the way,” Cofer said. “My parents were happy that I picked Tennessee, since they both went there. Ultimately it was my decision and I feel good about the impact that I can make there.”
The 6-8 forward is not close to hitting his ceiling of development yet either. The high motor athlete made a name for himself on the summer circuit by diving on loose balls and rattling the rafters with his dunks. However, what Cofer seems most concerned about these days is rounding out his skill set to become a complete player. “I still have a lot of work to do, especially with my offensive game. I want to get my jumper more consistent.”

It was evident at the Fall Showcase presented by OntheRadarHoops.com that Cofer is on his way to achieving his goal for himself. His footwork coming off screens and the release on his jumper shows that the Atlanta native has been in the gym regularly.

However, when asked about specific goals for himself all Cofer could talk about is championships.
“I want to win a championship this season in high school,” Cofer said. “That is what it is all about. When I get to Tennessee, I just want to do everything I can to help bring a championship back to Knoxville.”

With Cofer locked in mentally and physically for the upcoming season, look for him to lead his Whitewater high school team into the state playoffs this season. However, beyond the high school season, Volunteer fans should be awaiting the arrival of Cofer alongside another metro-Atlanta native in A.J. Davis of Buford, Ga who is a freshman on the roster this year. Look for Tennessee to continue their progression upward within the Southeastern Conference with the addition of Cofer.

Jonathan Hemingway is a National Evaluator for the OTRHoopsReport. He is also the owner of Coach Hemingway Basketball. He has been involved in the community since 1996 as a coach, camp director and evaluator. You can reach him via email at JonathanHemingway@PeachStateBasketball.com and follow him on twitter @JLHemingwayPSB