Curtis Eatmon, a highly touted 6-foot-3 point guard from Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., has given the University of Utah basketball program an early commitment.

The senior-to-be at Los Osos High School, who has ranked as one of the Inland Empire's leaders in assists, steals and 3-point shooting over the past two seasons, will make his decision official during the early signing period in November.

"I choose the University of Utah over the numerous schools that have recruited me because of the relationship that coach (Ray) Giacoletti and (assistant) coach (Marty) Wilson have fostered with me throughout this recruiting process," Eatmon said in a press release announcing his decision. "(They) exhibited their belief in my capabilities with their ability to evaluate my talents by developing with me a genuine relationship, proper communication, and trust which involved time, sincere interest, consistency, listening, suggestions, and questions.

"I choose to join the University of Utah family with the complete confidence that Coach Giacoletti and staff can help me achieve my goals and dreams as a basketball player and a man," continued the statement. "I intend to do my best by immediately making an impact to help the University of Utah continue its tradition of winning conference championships and competing in the NCAA tournament. "

Eatmon explained that finding a program that was an extension of his immediate family was a priority.

"My search was for a family that exhibits the spirit of leadership by cultivating the attitudes that influence human action. I have found that trustworthiness and family attitude in Coach Giacoletti," wrote Eatmon. "I look forward to developing as a student-athlete within the basketball program at the University of Utah."

Others schools that showed interest in Eatmon included North Carolina, Cincinnati, Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Pepperdine, San Diego, New Mexico, Oklahoma State, Kansas, Colorado State, Oregon State, Oregon and USC.

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E-mail: dirk@desnews.com