Nov. 10, 2000

Columbia, Mo. - The University of Missouri men's basketball program picked up Canada's top prep player when Duane John, of Toronto, Ontario, signed a national letter of intent to attend Mizzou. MU Head Coach Quin Snyder announced the signing today.

John is a 6-foot-6, 195-pound forward who was rated by many analysts as the top prospect in all of Canada. He averaged 32.5 points, 12.1 rebounds and three assists as a junior at Boylen High School in Toronto. He was named to the Toronto Sun's All-Star Team, and later averaged 18.3 points a game this summer playing AAU basketball for Team Toronto Elite, under coach Rowan Russell.

"Duane is a terrific talent and a great individual, and he has a tremendous upside," said Snyder. "He is a superior athlete and will have an opportunity to contribute immediately. He's a very well-rounded player who will bring a high degree of versatility to the team. We are excited to have him as part of our family," he said.

A native of the West Indies, John moved to Canada prior to high school, to be with his mother, Aldona Fosu. He chose Missouri over Michigan State, Syracuse, Louisville and Pittsburgh, among others. He moved to Homestead, Fla. over the summer, and will attend Berkshire High School for his senior season.