Collins Twins Keep UCLA in Picture

Jarron and Jason Collins, the Harvard-Westlake High twins who are among the most coveted college basketball recruits in California, said Thursday they were close to committing to UCLA before the firing of Bruin coach Jim Harrick.

But now, with Harrick out of the picture, Jason, a 6-foot-11 center, and Jarron, a 6-10 forward, are reconsidering their options.

“UCLA was, probably, the [school] we agreed upon most,” Jarron said. “But they, potentially, might have lost their whole recruiting class. Coach Harrick being fired does have an impact.”

Said Jason: “I was very serious about UCLA, but this could deter us from going to UCLA. I want to sit back and wait.”

The pair, who led Harvard-Westlake to a state Division III title in March, probably won’t wait long.

The twins also have made recruiting visits to Arizona and Stanford, and both players said they want to sign national letters of intent soon after the NCAA early signing period begins Wednesday and before Harvard-Westlake’s season begins in December.

They denied a published report that they have settled on Arizona and insist they have not ruled out UCLA. But they say uncertainty surrounding the Bruin program has made UCLA’s offer less inviting.

Both players said they like interim Coach Steve Lavin, Harrick’s replacement. But indications are that Lavin will last no more than one season, and a successor probably won’t be selected for months.