RECRUITING: Gorman’s Guzman hopes to follow coach’s lead at FIU

Gio Guzman was considered a pure point guard during his career with Bishop Gorman’s boys basketball team.

The senior will get to play for one of the position’s all-time greats in college.

Guzman committed to Florida International at the end of his official recruiting visit Tuesday, accepting a scholarship offer from Golden Panthers head coach Isiah Thomas.

Thomas, a 12-time NBA All-Star, won two titles during his storied playing career with the Detroit Pistons.

“Getting an opportunity to play for Isiah Thomas, that’s unbelievable,” Guzman said. “When he took the time to sit down with me and offer me a scholarship, I couldn’t say no.

“I’m just going to learn so much from him, especially. It’s going to be great to play for him.”

The 5-foot-10-inch Guzman was an unselfish distributor throughout his career for the Gaels. He averaged 7.2 assists per game as a senior as Gorman (28-4) rolled to the Class 4A state title.

“I contribute by passing and getting (teammates) open looks,” Guzman said.

Gorman coach Grant Rice added: "Gio was a true leader and captain in every way this year. He was a complete team player and would do anything for the team. I'm very happy for Gio and proud that he was part of our program the last four years."

Guzman said he is confident he can help turn Florida International around after the Golden Panthers went 8-21 this season.

Guzman received a phone call from Florida International shortly after returning from a visit to Northwest Christian, an NAIA school in Eugene, Ore., and also was recruited by NCAA Division II Grand Canyon (Ariz.).

“I’m just really blessed for this opportunity, blessed that Isiah saw something in me, blessed to play Division I ball,” Guzman said.