Seattle Prep's D.J. Fenner commits to Nevada

Local high school basketball standout D.J. Fenner committed to the University of Nevada last Friday. The 6'6 senior shooting guard from Seattle Prep is regarded as one of the top players in the state of Washington.

Fenner was juggling offers from UC Irvine, Utah and Hawaii, but made his decision after making an official visit to Nevada in early September.

"The coaches made it clear that I would be playing the two-guard position and that I would have a real opportunity to get on the floor my freshman year. That was very important to me," Fenner said.

Former Seattle Prep standout and current Nevada senior Patrick Nyeko played a role in Fenner's decision to choose the Wolf Pack.

"It felt great knowing somebody goes here who went to my soon-to-be high school alma mater. It gave me a sense of security that if Pat who went to [Seattle] Prep could stay in Reno for that long, then I could probably do the same. That Seattle Prep connection and community is very important and strong to me," Fenner said.

In August, SB Nation Seattle ranked Fenner as the No. 3 player in the state in its top 25 Washington state high school basketball players list, citing his defensive skills as an underrated aspect of his game.

The athletic two-guard helped lead his team to a runner-up finish at the WIAA 3A state tournament last March.

"I think Nevada got a player who will be ready to contribute right away. He is not a player who's body needs to mature. He's plenty strong, athletic, and quick enough to play at that level and he has another 12 months to continue improving," Seattle Prep Head Coach Mike Kelly said.

"He can get to the basket and finish with contact, will continue to improve his range and consistency from beyond the arc, is as good as anyone I've seen in high school shooting off the bounce from mid-range, and can guard the 1, 2, and 3 at the next level."

Fenner credited former Eastern Washington standout and current Nevada Assistant Coach Zac Claus for making him feel at home at Nevada during his visit.

"Both of my parents were all-in since I made the official visit. Knowing that they feel just as strongly about Nevada as I do makes me feel confident with my decision," Fenner said. "It seemed like the best opportunity for me to make it to the next level after college, be it a professional engineer, businessman, or ball player."