RECRUITING: Gorman’s Carter opts for Oregon

Ben Carter gave strong consideration to staying home and playing for UNLV’s basketball program.

But after careful thought on the recruiting process, the Bishop Gorman senior power forward has decided to spend his college career in the Pac-12 Conference. Carter said Monday he has made an oral commitment to Oregon.

The 6-foot-8-inch Carter said UNLV was “definitely” a close runner-up. He also was considering a scholarship offer from Utah after making official visits to all three schools, UNLV last.

“It’s always hard to say 'no’ to the hometown school,” Carter said. “I would have loved to play for coach (Dave) Rice. I just felt like Oregon was the right place.”

Carter had a familiar host for his trip to Eugene, Ore., in former Gorman point guard Johnathan Loyd, who will be a sophomore for the Ducks this season.

“It was good seeing (Loyd). We played pickup there,” Carter said of his early October trip. “I had a great time, (a) smile on my face the whole time. I love the atmosphere. There are good people in Eugene.”

Carter averaged 12.6 points, 8.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists as a junior, earning second-team all-state honors as the Gaels won the Sunset Region title.

Carter continued to show his versatile skill set during the summer with the Las Vegas Lakers, a club team coached by his father, Mike. Ben Carter plays well with his back to the basket, but has solid range on his jump shot and even played some point forward for Gorman last season.

“His game has flourished in all aspects,” Mike Carter said of his son’s improvement. “His ball-handling has improved. The sky is the limit for him.”

Mike Carter said he kept watch on Ben’s recruitment, but the choice was his son’s.

“He made his decision on his own. I’m behind him,” Mike Carter said.