Football Recruiting: ASU Sun Devils Have A Ball On Signing Day

An explosive two-way player, Ball had committed to Wisconsin for the better part of the last year. The same school attended by his brother, Ray, an offensive lineman for the Badgers.

The Westerville native re-opened his commitment following coach Brett Bielema’s departure for Arkansas in December. Head Coach Todd Graham and his staff stayed in touch with Ball and managed to sell him on the Maroon and Gold on an official visit a few weeks ago, emphasizing the athletic department’s approach to academics.

“I was impressed the most by the academic support. Their graduation rate, especially with African-American student-athletes is very high,” said Ball, following his commitment.

“When I look at a school I’m looking at the everyday life for a student. You have to balance football with academics, and also social life. Academic support, the sincerity of the coaches and having a good relationship with them with an open door. You want to be comfortable with them so you can talk about anything.”

Ball’s versatility is one of his best assets. A safety and receiver at Westerville-South High School, Ball has the ability to line up at several positions, opening up a great deal of possibilities for the ASU coaching staff.

“If things don’t work out at receiver, I know I can go to a defensive spot and do some damage there. The window of opportunity is expanded for me to make damage at either spot. They just want me to play at the position I would have the most success at.”

Ball signed and faxed his letter of intent Wednesday and is projected to compete for playing time this fall.

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