It was a packed house at the Bogey Grille in Jacksonville today with over 100 family and friends gathered to hear the announcement by Wilson of his college choice. Nease HS Craig Howard praised Wilson as an "outstanding guy, both on the field and in the classroom" and he called James the best offensive lineman he's ever coached.
Wilson took the time before making his announcement to thank all the college coaches who had recruited him, including Charlie Weis, Urban Meyer and Mark Richt. He then proceeded to pick up the USC hat off the table and his decision was made clear.
"The determining factors of why I chose USC were the attraction of Los Angeles, the business school at USC, the fact that my father was in the area and just California in general," said Wilson. "It was a split house as my mom wanted me to go to Notre Dame but overall the whole experience in California was too much and having my dad there is big too.
"I'm looking forward to playing for Coach Carroll. He's so enthusiastic and his energy is amazing. Pat Ruel (OL coach) was big in this decision as well. He knows what I need to do in order to be successful at the next level.
"Right now I'm 6-4, 310 and the coaches told me they don't want me to change at all, they want me to report around that weight. I don't plan on taking any other recruiting trips, I will only trip to USC."
WeAreSC staff writers Vince and Bruce Bagni contributed to this story