DeKALB | Six-foot-six-inch swingman Dre Henley of De La Salle Institute committed to the NIU men’s basketball team over the weekend, according to multiple reports.

Considered by many to be one of the top unsigned players in Illinois, Henley reportedly had interest from Fairfield, Indiana State and DePaul.

Roy Schmidt, of ilprepbullseye.com, considers the incoming freshman to be the best in-state recruit that NIU has landed in years.

“There is no question that Henley is a tremendous get for NIU and an absolute steal,” Schmidt said. “He’s a player who we believe has enough ability that he could have gone even higher.

“In fact, the argument could be made that Henley had a stronger senior season at De La Salle than University of Illinois recruit Mike Shaw.”

Henley helped lead a talent-laden De La Salle team to a 22-3 record, a Chicago Catholic League Championship game and a berth in the sectional round of the state tournament.

The left-handed Henley played all over the floor at De La Salle, showcasing some versatility that would undoubtedly be a big help to head coach Mark Montgomery in his first year on the job.

Joe Henricksen, editor of City/Suburban Hoops Report, says the young forward has the ability to power his way to the basket, but is also capable of burying a shot from behind the arc.

“Henley sees the floor well, and is a pretty good passer with vision,” Henricksen said. “He is an ideal fit in the Mid-American Conference, and should provide an immediate boost to the program as a freshman.”

The commitment of Henley comes a little over a week after the signings of 6’7″ twin forwards Keith and Kevin Gray of Brooks and 6’2″ combo guard Marquavis Ford of Saginaw (MI).

The group joins the two recruits that signed to play for former head coach Ricardo Patton. Glenbard East point guard Zach Miller and Liberty Tech (Tenn.) shooting guard DeAndre Barnette both signed on last fall.

According to Schmidt, the Huskies also have a scholarship offer on the table for Evanston Township High School forward James Farr. A 6’8″ forward, Farr is also considered one of the top unsigned players in the state.

Looking at the 2011 class as is, Schmidt said he believes the Huskies’ time at the bottom of the MAC may be coming to an end.

“The Huskies’ 2011 class is definitely one that we believe has the ability to put NIU right at the top of the MAC in the near future,” Schmidt said.