Leon Bond, a 6’5”, 180-pound wing prospect out of Wisconsin’s Wauwatosa East High School, announced his college decision Friday (July 30) afternoon. It was good news for the University of Virginia men’s basketball program, which now boasts two commitments in the class of 2022.
Great day to be a Cavalier⚔️🔸🔹#GoHoos pic.twitter.com/ilSXkrEeIC
— Leon B (@leonbx35) July 30, 2021
Bond considered scholarship offers from Cincinnati, Marquette, Milwaukee, Texas A&M and Virginia Tech before choosing the Hoos. He took official visits to UVA, Cincinnati and Marquette in June of this year, and reportedly his decision came down to those three schools. UVA head coach Tony Bennett offered a scholarship following the first live evaluation period in July, weeks after Bond toured the Grounds on an official visit.
247Sports rates Bond as a 4-star prospect, the no. 42 overall player and the no. 11 small forward in the class of 2022. Rivals has the Wisconsin native as a 3-star prospect and the no. 49 small forward in his class. The Wisconsin Sports Network describes Bond as an “exceptionally athletic wing player who plays well above the rim.”
Bond averaged close to 12 points, almost six rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game this past season, helping WEHS to a 23-2 overall record and the 2021 WIAA Division 1 state championship. He has continued his quality play with JH1 Elite on the AAU circuit this summer.
‘22 Leon Bond (@JH1Elite) gets grown man rebounds. High point defensive rebound in traffic – putback dunk on the other end. Plays well above 6’5 with his length and athleticism. Marquette & Virginia in attendance. @hoopseen @ny2lasports @leonbx35 @414BClay @MHS_Boys_
— Isaac Dennis (@IsaacDennis_2) July 10, 2021
Leon Bond has tremendous versatility and upside. The long and athletic wing is a highly impactful player on both ends. Plays with great energy & commands the glass, plays well off the dribble, plus scores it posting up. @JH1Elite @ny2lasports @hoopseen pic.twitter.com/UOyKTePkpX
— Midwest Hoops Spotlight (@MHS_Boys_) July 8, 2021
Bond joins Poca (W.V.) shooting guard Isaac McKneely in UVA’s 2022 Class. According to the current 247Sports rankings, Virginia has commitments from two of the nation’s top 60 senior prospects. Bond is no. 42 overall, while McKneely is no. 57.
Virginia Basketball 2022-23 Projection
Virginia has four scholarships still available to use in the class of 2022 recruiting. Below is the latest scholarship projections for the 2022-23 season.
Virginia Basketball Projected Roster, 2022-23
Point Guards: Reece Beekman (Jr)
Wings: Armaan Franklin (Sr), Carson McCorkle (Jr), Igor Milicic Jr. (Soph), Taine Murray (Soph), Isaac McKneely (Fr), Leon Bond (Fr)
Posts: Francisco Caffaro (R-Sr), Kadin Shedrick (R-Jr)
UVA will need to recruit some point guards and post guys!!!