Walton's Son Bypasses UCLA

Chris Walton, the youngest son of Hall of Famer Bill Walton, has turned down a scholarship offer from UCLA and verbally committed to play for coach Steve Fisher at San Diego State.

"I have explored all my options and know it is the best place for me," the 6-foot-8 Walton told the San Diego Union-Tribune. "I have 100 percent confidence that Coach Fisher is going to turn the program around. I've had a great experience from the moment he began recruiting me."

Fisher took over San Diego State's sad-sack program in March after Fred Trenkle resigned following a 4-22 season. The Aztecs have had just one winning season in the last 14 years.

NCAA rules prohibit Fisher from commenting until players sign letters of intent.

Walton is a senior at the University of San Diego High. His father led UCLA to two national championships before starring in the NBA.

"I'm sure my dad would have been extremely happy had I chosen UCLA, but I also know he would never want me to be someplace I wasn't happy," Chris Walton said. "He has always wanted us to make our own decisions.

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