RHP Forward Nick Welch Jr. Signs with TCU After Three-Year Pursuit

Nick Welch Jr. committed to TCU on Sunday, a decision that caps a multi-year pursuit that began when he was a sophomore at Rolling Hills Prep. The Torrance native announced his choice at Jump Beyond Sports Gym in front of family and friends, narrowing a list of six finalists that included Pepperdine, Cal, Stanford, New Mexico, and Virginia Tech.

Welch spent three years at RHP, where he developed into a two-way player. His junior season featured averages of 16.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game. According to his father, Nick Sr., the shift toward a collegiate path started in ninth grade when Welch adopted a 5 a.m. workout routine. That discipline, Welch Sr. said, signaled a change in mindset that separated him from his earlier high school years.

The forward credited TCU for its persistence. "From the start they (TCU) did it right," Welch said. "They have been recruiting me for two years, doing the little things by showing up on the days nobody else did." He emphasized the fit between his skill set and the program's tactical approach, noting that he trusts the coaching staff and believes their style will maximize his potential.

Welch Sr. played at Air Force from 2002 to 2007, where he earned Mountain West Conference co-Player of the year honors in 2003-04. He described his son's dedication as the key to his success, stating that once Welch committed to the early morning regimen, he knew the player was ready for a higher level of competition. The family chose Rolling Hills Prep in his freshman year specifically to play under head coach Harvey Kitani.

Welch Sr. called the partnership with Kitani a major blessing. "Harvey is the best," he said. "We’ve been here for four years, because of who he (Kitani) is and who he has made Nick become both on and off the court." He expressed pride in his son's development and excitement for the next chapter in Fort Worth.

Coach Kitani praised the senior forward's character and basketball ability. "There is not a better person than Nick (Jr.) and he can really play basketball," Kitani said. He predicted that Welch would serve as a captain and graduate from TCU, calling him one of the most deserving high school athletes in the state.

Welch will join the TCU roster for the upcoming collegiate season. The forward has completed his high school eligibility and is preparing to transition to Division I competition next fall.