IMG

Another top LA player his heading there.
[link=( https://www.thetowntalk.com/story/sports/high-school/2016/01/18/marcase-lots-watch-field-high-school-sports/78967708/)]IMG[/link]

However, perhaps the issue to watch most concerning the future of high school athletics will be one that is off the field.

Arguably the two best football players in the state in their respective classes transferred to the IMG Academy in Florida.

Dylan Moses, a linebacker/running back, is considered the top 2017 prospect in the country. He is transferring from Baton Rouge’s University High.

Moses originally committed to LSU before backing off that pledge.

According to reports, Moses is transferring due in part to the fact he can graduate in December at IMG, allowing him to enroll in January at whichever college he will attend. Early graduation is growing trend in college football. If recruits can graduate in December and enroll in January, they are allowed to participate in spring practice, giving them a better chance at seeing playing time in the fall as a true freshman.

On Friday, Dare Rosenthal of Ferriday transferred to IMG Academy. Rosenthal, a 6-foot-7, 310-pound sophomore two-way lineman has already committed to Alabama.

IMG Academy is funded by the colossal sports and entertainment management group, whose clients include the Williams sisters and Cam Newton. The IMG Academy also hosts professional athletes in all sports for off-season training.

Having top prospects leave Louisiana to finish their high school careers is nothing new.

Last year, Shreveport’s Calvary Baptist lost star quarterback and Ole Miss commitment Shea Patterson to IMG. A few years ago, Craig Victor II left St. Aug and New Orleans for Las Vegas basketball power Findlay Prep. Victor is now a starter for the LSU basketball team after transferring from Arizona.

The one sport that may be the most vulnerable to poaching by out-of-state prep factories is baseball when you consider how that sport has transitioned from local leagues to year-round travel ball teams.

The landscape of high school sports in Louisiana and the around the country is evolving rapidly. The coming days and weeks will tell just how quickly.