Basketball: West Valley’s Burton is on the verge of big time

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Joe Burton was impressive the first time I saw him in action, which must have been at some point in March. Little changed the second time around, earlier this month. You know, it’s funny, the 6-foot-8, 280-plus pound junior from Hemet West Valley has this uncanny knack for leaving a lasting impression and it’s tough to explain how he does it.

Good thing is, I’m not the only one who thinks this way. Several Division I schools agree. Burton has received scholarship offers from Central Florida, Gonzaga and Marquette, along with Oregon St. and San Diego St. According to this report, it appears as if he might be leaning toward Utah, although he won’t end up with the Utes.

This kid has tons of potential, his game is far too advanced not to be recognized by much more high-profile programs. Coincidentally enough, Florida and Tennessee have been in contact with him recently and it’s just a matter of time before the other powerhouses do the same. In my humble opinion, Burton is that impressive. Stay tuned...

-- Sean Ceglinsky