Goodman backs out of commitment to Villanova

Savon Goodman must have had some serious second thoughts.

The 6-foot-6 power forward backed out of his oral commitment to play basketball at Villanova the same week he switched high schools.

He decommitted from the Wildcats on Monday and transferred from the Academy of the New Church to Constitution High two days later.

The senior is in Venice Beach, Calif., this weekend, competing in the Elite 24 Hoops Classic, and could not be reached for comment.

When reached Saturday, Constitution coach Rob Moore confirmed that Goodman enrolled at his school. Moore also acknowledged that he was aware of Goodman's decommitment from Villanova. Moore said he had no other information.

A source close to the situation said that Goodman called Villanova coach Jay Wright on Monday to discuss his change of plans. The source did not disclose a reason or provide a list of possible destinations.

ESPN recruiting analyst Dave Telep reported that Kentucky, Kansas, Louisville, Texas, UCLA, and Arizona are among many possible destinations.

Without Goodman, Villanova is likely to lose its status as the nation's second-ranked recruiting class for the Class of 2012, according to ESPN.

The South Philadelphian was scheduled to join Neshaminy point guard Ryan Arcidiacono and Westtown School center Daniel Ochefu as Villanova freshman hoopsters next fall.

Goodman was the spokesman of the group, openly recruiting close friend and Friends' Central School forward Amile Jefferson to join the three at 'Nova. Jefferson has not yet made a college commitment.

Goodman is regarded as the nation's 41st-best prospect in the Class of 2012, according to the Bob Gibbons All-Star Scouting Service. He is also recognized as a top 100 senior by Scout.com (49), Rivals.com (54), and ESPN (67).

Goodman placed second in Friday's Elite 24 slam dunk contest.

Contact staff writer Keith Pompey

at 215-854-2939, kpompey@phillynews.com, or @pompeysgridlock on Twitter.