Tyler Hayes, a sharp-shooting 6-5 small forward from North Idaho College in Coeur d'Alene, Id., will definitely return to the two-year school for his sophomore campaign in 2003-2004.

JUCO Junction caught up with NIC Head Coach Hugh Watson on Monday, and he confirmed that Hayes will be staying put.

As a freshman qualifier out of Bend, Ore., Hayes could have left North Idaho with three years at the D-I level following his freshman campaign.

Hayes established himself as a solid Division I prospect at NIC in 2002-2003, averaging 14.5 points and four rebounds per game for the Cardinals. His biggest asset is his shooting stroke, as he canned 76 three pointers at a 39 percent clip.

Watson said that schools looking early at Hayes include UNLV, Utah State, Oregon State, Portland State, Montana and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Hayes can shoot and he's a cerebral player who understands the game well. The question about him is on the defensive side of the ball and his ability to cover quicker and more athletic wing players.

Hayes should be one of the better returning players in the Scenic West Athletic Conference this winter, and JUCO Junction will keep you abreast on his recruitment as the 2003-2004 basketball season approaches. Stay tuned!