Oak Ridge HS Star Wide Receiver James Scott Picks TCU Over 27 Offers
- The Woodlands Student Center
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
One of Texas' top wide receivers makes early commitment during packed summer signing event
CONROE, Texas — Thursday, June 19, 9:00 p.m.
Oak Ridge High School wide receiver James Scott committed to Texas Christian University (TCU) during a packed on-campus signing event Thursday evening, choosing the Horned Frogs over 27 Division I offers. The three-star senior, who led District 13-6A in receptions last season, will play his final season with the War Eagles this fall, then graduate in December 2025 as part of Oak Ridge’s winter commencement before enrolling early at TCU in January 2026. The decision caps off a competitive recruiting process that included official visits to USC, LSU, Houston, and Texas A&M.
Crowd Forces Change of Venue
Scott made his announcement in front of a standing-room-only crowd that forced school officials to relocate the event to a larger space. Originally planned for the football team room, the signing had to be moved after the turnout of supporters exceeded expectations. The audience included family, coaches, classmates, faculty, and athletes from other high schools — a show of support that reflected the impact Scott has made at Oak Ridge.
Recruiting Timeline and Final Decision
James Scott, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound wide receiver entering his senior year, officially announced his commitment to Texas Christian University (TCU) during the event. His decision came after months of recruitment, dozens of campus visits, and offers from more than 27 NCAA Division I programs. Among the final contenders were USC, LSU, Houston, and Texas A&M. Ultimately, Scott chose the Horned Frogs of TCU, citing a strong connection with the coaching staff and a desire to stay close to home.
Scott’s decision came just days after returning from an official visit to TCU’s campus in Fort Worth. “After that weekend, I just knew,” Scott said. “Everything felt right. The coaching staff, the players, the atmosphere — it all just clicked. I’m grateful for the opportunity and ready for what’s next.”
Coach Tyler Blackshire, Oak Ridge’s athletic director and head football coach, spoke before Scott’s announcement. “This is a special moment not just for James, but for our entire school community,” Blackshire said. “James represents what happens when talent, discipline, and academic focus come together. We’re proud of him, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.”
A Standout Junior Season
Scott’s athletic résumé is impressive. In his junior year, he led District 13-6A in receptions with 59 catches, totaling 956 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. He averaged over 16 yards per catch and consistently drew the attention of opposing defenses. His performance earned him First Team All-District honors last season.
Despite the accolades, Scott emphasized that academics played just as big a role in his decision as football. “I wanted a place where I could grow on and off the field,” he said. “TCU has one of the top business schools in the country, and I’m looking forward to pursuing that.”
Scott plans to graduate from Oak Ridge in December, a full semester early, and enroll at TCU in January 2026. This early arrival will allow him to participate in spring practices and begin his transition to college football ahead of schedule. According to Coach Blackshire, this is part of a growing trend among elite athletes who want to get a head start on college academics and athletics.
Family Reflections
Scott’s mother, Lacy, works at MD Anderson Cancer Center and has lived in The Woodlands area since before James started kindergarten. She shared that the recruiting process had been stressful but was ultimately rewarding. “It’s a very special day,” she said. “I’m just happy that he found the right fit. TCU is close enough that we’ll be able to go to the games, and I think he made a smart choice.”
Scott committed to TCU over 27 offers and will graduate early to join the Horned Frogs in January.
Scott’s father, who played linebacker in college, expressed pride in his son’s decision and journey. “James is hungry,” he said. “He’s got the size, speed, and ability, but more than that, he’s got the drive. He’s earned everything that’s come his way.” He also noted a strong support system and guidance from coaches that helped James stay on track.
Coaches Who Paved the Way
Throughout the ceremony, Scott made a point to thank those who helped him along the way. He gave a heartfelt mention to Coach Laporte, who encouraged him to return to football after stepping away from the sport in junior high, and Coach Reed, who took over and helped shape his development both on and off the field.
“I want to thank my family, my teammates, and every coach who believed in me,” Scott said. “This isn’t just my moment — this is our moment.
Scott also reflected on the full crowd that filled the room. “When I pulled up, I was already nervous,” he admitted. “I saw all the cars, and I realized this was bigger than I imagined. When I sat down and looked around, there wasn’t an empty seat in the room. That meant a lot.”
Senior Season Goals
While his commitment is now official, Scott made it clear that he still has goals for his senior season. Chief among them: reaching the 1,000-yard mark in receiving. “That’s what I’m chasing,” he said with a grin. “Everything else is handled. Now it’s time to go out and finish what I started.”
Early Commitment Trend
Scott’s decision to commit in June — before the start of his senior season — reflects a growing trend among top national recruits. The early summer window has become a pivotal time in the recruiting calendar, as many of the country’s elite prospects make their selections before the NCAA enters its quiet and dead periods, when communication between athletes and college coaches is restricted.
Scott will return this fall as one of the top returning wide receivers in the state, and Oak Ridge fans can expect to see the football fly his way early and often. While the future is now set for Scott, the present still holds plenty of excitement.
By The Woodlands Student Center Staff
