If there is one ball player in the 2016 class that fits the mold of the Florida Gulf Coast mantra of Dunk City, it would be Christian Carlyle. A 6-foot-5 wing out of Bishop Kenny High School within the state borders of the Atlantic Sun program, Carlyle ended his recruitment Sunday morning by committing to Joe Dooley and his staff after carrying other offers from programs like Duquesne, North Florida, and UTC.

A member of the Florida Elite 17-under squad that competed on the Adidas circuit this past summer, the wing’s numbers might not jump off the page, yet when adjusted per-32 minutes, the broad range of capabilities showed face as he would have produced over 14 points and seven boards per game. Add in the fact that he averaged close to two assists and a steal per game and the versatility that Carlyle brings to the floor should enable for FGCU to throw out various lineups with the playmaker on it.

Outside of the tangible stats, what might be Carlyle’s long term abilities? He can already shoot it from the mid-range and should be able to extend his range with consistency to beyond the 3-point arc. Carlyle can pass it out of the dribble-drive, secure boards in traffic, and has deceptive athleticism to him at the basket. With further work on his handles and ball skills, the Jacksonville native should be able to play either wing spot and on either end of the floor.

With the fit and playing style in order, what led to the in-state recruit committing to the program during his visit? “It’s a winning team and we have a great chance to win the conference every year and make the tournament.”

Carlyle spoke further on the staff and the school’s location. “I really liked the coaches and players. I fell in love with the campus and the area.”

While there is still work to be done on Carlyle’s end in furthering his game and skillset, Sunday morning was a great start to what could be another successful few years at Florida Gulf Coast.