Deandre Scott talks about his ASU pledge

With an assist from its star sophomore wide receiver Jaelen Strong, Arizona State picked up a commitment Monday from Philadelphia (Pa.) Imhotep Institution Charter School cornerback Deandre Scott.

Scott, 5-foot-8, 180 pounds, was a high school teammate of David Williams, a running back who had ASU as one of his finalists in the 2013 class before picking South Carolina.

Williams is the cousin of Strong and Scott got to know the Sun Devil receiver in recent years with the friendship increasing his interest in the program.

"We were working out together," Scott said. "He'd tell me what I was doing wrong after running a route against me even though he was a receiver so he really helped me and is one of the best receivers to ever come out of Philly.

"When I found out ASU really wanted me about three months ago I wanted to commit then but decided to do my research first."

Scott looked into ASU's depth chart at defensive back and its programs in the area he wants to study which is nutrition and medicine and was impressed. He said Nebraska, Central Florida, Buffalo and Western Michigan were the other schools really in the mix at the time of his commitment.

"Once I found out the dudes who start are seniors and they academics are good in what I want to study, that was it," Scott said. "Plus my (high school) coach said they were going to be with me all the way to the end 100 percent and really got my back, so I do feel like if I go out there they will be there for me whenever I need them."

When he was 13 Scott visited the Phoenix-area and liked it. He said he hates cold weather and is looking forward to moving to Arizona.

"We haven't really talked about exactly what position I will play because there's multiple stuff I can do," Scott said. "I know for sure I'm going to be a punt returner and kicker. As far as the position, it's not an issue.

"I'm just really excited. I'm glad I got that over with. Now it's just making sure I'm cool academic wise and getting on the field early. Jaelen is excited too. He said welcome to the family."

Scott' team is 11-1 with a semifinal game on deck.

"Our team is doing great and for me I'm happy but it's frustrating because it's not what it was last year," he said. "Just, they never throw the ball at me."

The No. 18 commitment of the class for ASU, Scott said he will visit the school officially in January and will not take visits to other schools.