On Dec. 2, 2012, Demarcus Croaker – a 6-foot-3-inch guard out of Orlando, Fla., announced his intentions to play basketball for the Racers.
With many Murray State fans hoping Croaker would fill the vacancy left by departing senior Isaiah Canaan, the guard known for his flashy dunks and fast-paced play seemed primed to become the next star player to wear the blue and gold.
“I talked to Isaiah Canaan, and knowing how he came here and how he made an impact on their program, I think I can do the same thing,” Croaker told Scout.com at the time of his commitment.
Unfortunately for Racer fans, Croaker didn’t stick around to find out.
Recruits often give verbal commitments to schools, usually during or after a visit to the campus. In Croaker’s case, he informed the coaching staff he had chosen Murray State during a weekend visit to campus.
This type of commitment is not binding, however, until a recruit signs an official letter of intent.
These letters cannot be signed until National Signing Day in April, however, which allows verbally committed recruits to continue visiting and talking with other schools.
After his verbal commitment to the Racers, the University of Texas, a finalist for Croaker along with Murray State and Florida State, intensified its efforts to land the three-star recruit.
In late February, ESPN’s Reggie Rankin reported Croaker had decommitted from the Racers and was likely on the verge of signing with Texas.
Since the decommitment, Croaker has visited Texas and has also drawn additional interest from Baylor. Following his visit to Texas earlier this month, Croaker verbally committed to the Longhorns March 19.
While the commitment to Texas doesn’t necessarily put Murray State out of the running, it is not likely Head Coach Steve Prohm and staff will be able to change Croaker’s mind for a third time.
With Croaker likely out of the equation, Prohm still has two scholarships open for next season. With five seniors departing, the Racers have already inked three players for next season.
They included two freshmen guards Cameron Payne and forward Jarvis Williams, and Clemson transfer guard T.J. Sapp.
If Croaker cannot be convinced to recommit, Prohm and his staff may look to the junior college ranks or to other schools to add another guard and forward.
In recent years, the Racers have experienced success at bringing in junior college and transfer players, including seniors Stacy Wilson and Latreze Mushatt.
With much still to be decided, Prohm and his staff are sure to be busy over the coming weeks. They look to complete next year’s roster and fill the shoes vacated by the winningest senior class in program history.
Story by Jonathan Ferris, Staff writer.