Austin Butler had to rediscover the recruiting process when his four years of college basketball ended at Holy Cross because he could not continue his academic career in Worcester, Mass.
The former Latrobe star entered the NCAA transfer portal and got more than a few nibbles on the line. About 30 teams showed initial interest, and 10 made offers of varying degrees. But only one checked all the boxes.
Butler announced Thursday night he will play his final season as a grad student at Charlotte (N.C.).
Seniors earned a bonus year from the NCAA after the pandemic wreaked havoc on the 2020 season.
“It came down to the best fit for me,” Butler said. “You only have one year left, so you have to get it right.”
Excited for this next chapter! ?? Niner nation let’s rock! ??? pic.twitter.com/aRDMrmSkuY
— AB (@austinbutler44) April 2, 2021
Butler, an All-Patriot League second-team selection this year, averaged 16.1 points and 8.7 rebounds as a senior. He had a career-high 30 points in his final game for the Crusaders, an 86-75 win at Boston University. He overcame shoulder surgery on a nagging injury to finish with 1,321 career points, averaging 12.1 in 109 career games.
While he did not name his other top suitors, he said he had offers from schools in the Horizon and Summit leagues, along with others from the Big West and Missouri Valley conferences. The 49ers play in Conference USA.
“It’s about having a relationship with coaches and trust,” Butler said. “I felt those things in a short time (with Charlotte). It’s a great city and a great school. I want to continue to get better so I can reach my ultimate goal of playing professionally at the highest level possible. I hope to bring my experience to Charlotte and help us win.”
Holy Cross does not offer a post-grad program, and Butler could not just stay around and solely play basketball.
“I still have not decided if I will go into the Master’s program (at Charlotte) or if I will get a grad certification,” he said.
Butler’s father, Eric, played at Robert Morris. The Colonials were one of the schools interested in acquiring Butler.
A couple of recent girls standouts from Westmoreland County have ties to the Charlotte women’s program.
Former Jeannette guard Ciara Gregory had a successful four-year career at Charlotte and is currently a graduate manager with the team.
Cali Konek is a sophomore guard for the 49ers who opted out this season because of the covid-19 pandemic. Konek, a high-scoring guard when she played in the WPIAL, finished her high school career at Franklin Regional after stops at Imani Christian, Riverdale Baptist (Md.) and Southmoreland.
