Four-star wide receiver Phillip Bell planned to announce his college decision on August 31st during a yacht party to celebrate his and his late mother’s birthdays. Despite his mother passing away earlier this summer, Bell remains committed to his original plan as a tribute to her.
Bell shared with On3, “My mom and I were going to celebrate her 40th birthday on the water at a yacht party on August 31 and I was going to make my commitment. That will still happen. She was involved in this process with me—she visited schools and shared my views on them. I will make my commitment and honor her on August 31.”
The 6-foot-1, 200-pound resident of Mission Viejo has narrowed his choices to four schools: USC, Ohio State, Georgia, and Washington.
Bell’s Dream School is USC
“I’ve been wavering between schools for a while. Initially, USC was my dream school, and it was at the top of my list. Tennessee was also a contender at one point. After receiving an offer from Ohio State and visiting, I liked them. After official visits to all my top schools, it has been a tough choice.”
According to On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine, Ohio State is the frontrunner, with an 83.6 percent chance of securing Bell’s commitment, while USC trails with just a 4.1 percent chance.
Last season with the Mission Viejo Diablos, Bell recorded 56 catches for 644 yards and seven touchdowns in 14 games.
“My mind is made up,” Bell told On3. “The key factors for me throughout my recruitment remained the same: development, a place where I can be happy every day, and a place that will help me reach my goals. That’s what ultimately influenced my decision.”
