By Mark Schmetzer
Enquirer contributor

The RedHawks received their first oral commitment for the 2004-2005 season when Seattle Prep senior Chad Troyer announced his decision Monday.

Troyer, a 6-foot-4 senior, averaged 12 points and five assists per game last season. He also was being recruited by California-Irvine, Pacific, Eastern Washington, Princeton and Columbia, said his coach, Chris Miller.

"He's a late bloomer," Miller said. "As a freshman, people knew him as a 5-9 kid who would stand out there and fling 3's. Now, he can take one step and dunk, but Miami really likes how he can pass the ball."

Troyer, whose father is an Indiana native, visited Miami in September, Miller said.

"He was really sold on it once he came back," Miller said. "He loved Coach (Charlie) Coles and loved the campus. He got to play with the players when he was there and loved them. He could've signed two weeks ago."

Miami coaches are not allowed to comment on recruits until they sign.