Southern Illinois got a huge steal on Wednesday as Chicago (Ill.) Uplift 2017 guard Demarius Jacobs gave the Salukies a cornerstone piece to their next recruiting class. Despite the allure of potentially landing some bigger offers in the winter, Jacobs opted to pull the trigger due to Southern Illinois’ loyalty throughout the recruiting process.

“I felt like they’ve been really engaged with me and wanted me the longest,” Jacobs told NY2LA Sports. “They’ve been with me since my sophomore year. I like their basketball program. I also like how the coaches have a great relationship with their players.”

Jacobs chose Southern Illinois over other offers from Wisconsin-Green Bay, North Dakota, LIU-Brooklyn, Chicago State, Drake, Denver, UTEP, and Central Connecticut State.  The 6-foot-3, 160-pound guard is the first commitment for the Salukis in the class of 2017.

“They said they were really happy,” said Jacobs. “They can’t wait to get me down there. I had a really great relationship with them. They always pushed me to work harder.” 

Jacobs said his decision came down to Southern Illinois, UTEP, and Green Bay. He was also hearing from UNLV and the Rebels were expected to offer in January.  A terrific two-way player who can spark a team in transition, Jacobs plans to carry that energy over to Southern Illinois in 2017-18. 

“I can push the ball up and down the floor,” he said. “I’ll be an unselfish guard, make the extra passes.”

Jacobs played for All-In Y&R in the NY2LA Basketball Association this past spring & summer.