April 16, 2009

Saluki men's basketball coach Chris Lowery announced that prep school center Gene Teague (6-9, 285, Apex Academy-N.J.) has signed a letter of intent to play for Southern Illinois.

Teague, a 2008 graduate of Living Faith Christian Academy (N.J.), originally committed to Big East school South Florida, but was not eligible and enrolled instead at APEX Academy. There, he averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds per game last season. Teague was rated as the top post-graduate player in the state by NJ Hoops magazine.

"He's a physical specimen," Lowery said. "He's legitimately 6-foot-9. He's a big, imposing figure, who catches everything. His hands are great. He has great footwork on the block."

As a senior in high school, Teague averaged 20 points and 13 rebounds for Living Faith Christian Academy and led his team to a 23-9 record. The Vineland, N.J. native played one season at Living Faith, having transferred from St. Augustine High School after his junior year.

"He's not going to wow you with his athleticism, but his feel for the low post is advanced," Lowery said. "We really needed a big body person who can get us baskets around the rim."

Lowery said the Salukis are continuing to pursue other prospects to fill the openings for the two remaining scholarships.