POULSBO — North Kitsap hoops standout Kyle Erickson will don a blue and white jersey next year as a member of the University of San Diego basketball squad. Erickson agreed to play for the Toreros after visiting the school and chatting with coaches last week. The school first showed interest in Erickson after the Vikings’ trip to the state 3A tournament in March.
Erickson plans to major in business, and said he was impressed with the opportunities USD offered in the classroom as well as on the court.
“I think it’s a really good situation for me across the board,” Erickson said. “All their facilities are top of the line, and they’re building a good program down there.”
Because USD has already doled out its share of athletic scholarships for the upcoming school year, Erickson will not be eligible for such funds until his sophomore season.
For the time being, it is uncertain whether Erickson will play as a freshman at USD. Head coach Bill Grier told Erickson he wishes he could red-shirt all his freshmen. Erickson will practice with the team this summer and be evaluated in the fall to determine his status.
“This summer, I’m going to get stronger and work on my game, and hopefully I can have an impact on the team,” Erickson said.