As reported yesterday, 6-foot-9 forward Nick Madray committed to Binghamton as the final piece of next year’s recruiting class. The in-season signing period ended today, and Madray did not sign his National Letter of Intent. But even though things can change, Madray insists his verbal might as well be inked on paper.

“I haven’t signed my LOI yet, but it doesnt matter because I’m committed to Binghamton and I’ll be playing for them next year,” he said.

When he suits up for Tommy Dempsey and the Bearcats, he’ll add a new element to the lineup. Roland Brown is strong inside and has decent mid-range touch, Brian Freeman is athletic and Alex Ogundadegbe has shown signs of improvement. But Binghamton does not have a big man who can truly stretch the floor.

ESPN pegged Madray as a center — No. 55 at the position — but the player himself said he is a “versatile and mobile forward.”

“I can play in and out, which gives me the ability to score regardless [of] if a bigger or smaller defender is guarding me,” he said. “Shooting mid-range and three-point shots are my strengths.”

Madray added that he is a good passer and an unselfish player who looks to create plays for his teammates.

Perhaps playing behind Anthony Bennett (UNLV), Brandon Ashley (Arizona) and Winston Shepard (San Diego State) at national powerhouse Findlay Prep helped instill that trait. They all ranked in the ESPNU Top 100, but they were not self-absorbed.

“They were like brothers and wanted to see me get better and grow as a better player,” Madray said.

And practicing against them helped Madray improve his game.

“That was my first year playing with talented players like them, so it was a big adjustment compared to my school in Canada,” he said.

He’ll return to Canada this year to play for Regional Elite Development Academy, where he hopes to “help…win games and build the reputation of the program even more.”

Sounds awfully similar to the opportunity he’ll have next year at Binghamton.

Asked why he chose Binghamton, Madray reeled off several answers. He said the academics and the coaching staff played a key role, adding that he thinks he will fit well in Dempsey’s style of play, before noting the fan support displayed at the Events Center.

“It also doesn’t hurt that Binghamton is only four hours away from my home,” Madray said. “But I’m proud to say Binghamton’s gonna be my new home.”