Ellis is a D2 Steal
Mercyhurst University, a Catholic liberal arts college in Erie (PA), came to New England and grabbed a late steal on Friday afternoon when Springfield Commonwealth Academy point guard Derrick Ellis committed to the Lakers.
Ellis' resume exceeds that of almost any other D2 signee. He not on played in the EYBL but often started for an Expressions team that advanced to the quarterfinals of the EYBL Finals at the Peach Jam. He was also the floor general for a SCA team that spent the entire season ranked among the top 8 prep programs in the country before advancing to the National Prep Championship for the first time in program history.
Ellis' game experience and proven worth against the highest levels of competition is off the charts but he is also known for his intangibles and work athletic. Additionally, he's extremely quick with the ball in his hands, capable of getting a piece of the paint practically on demand, and equally impactful with his ability to defend the ball on the other end of the floor.
He had multiple division I offers at various points throughout his recruiting process and was the subject of additional division I attention as recently as last week.
Originally from Connecticut, Ellis is the latest member of the SCA program to earn a full athletic scholarship after literally growing up in the program. The Tornadoes 2017 class has now produced seven scholarship athletes and over twelve future college basketball players.