Dino Jakolis, a 6’7”, 215 lb. forward from Split, Croatia, has signed a National Letter of Intent and will join the Valparaiso men’s basketball program as a freshman for the 2011-2012 season.  Jakolis comes to Valpo after playing last season at LaLumiere School in nearby LaPorte, Ind.

Jakolis started all but two games last season for a 17-9 LaLumiere squad, averaging12.4 points and four rebounds per game in his only season with the Lakers.  Jakolis, who hails from the same hometown as current Crusader Hrvoje Vucic, as well as a pair of former players in Marko Punda and Ivan Vujic, brings more international experience to the Valpo squad as well, as he played for the Croatia team at the 2007 U16 European Championship, averaging 10.1 ppg and 8.5 rpg.  Two years later, he represented Croatia again at the 2009 U18 European Championship, posting 9.1 ppg and 7.0 rpg.

“We are thrilled to have Dino joining our men’s basketball program,” said Crusader head coach Homer Drew.  “Dino brings a wide variety of skills to our program, as he can play multiple positions.  He handles the ball well, can pass and shoot well and can help us on the boards.”

Jakolis becomes the third newcomer committed to joining the Crusaders next season, joining Richie Edwards and Ben Boggs.