Torrance High Schooler Commits to TCU Basketball

The Torrance high school basketball scene gained a new recruit for the 2026-27 season on Sunday. Nick Welch Jr., a forward and center for Rolling Hills Prep, announced his commitment to play college basketball at Texas Christian University.

The announcement took place at Jump Beyond Sports Gym in Torrance. Welch made the decision in front of family members and friends. He had narrowed his final list of schools to six institutions: Pepperdine, Cal, Stanford, TCU, New Mexico, and Virginia Tech.

Welch cited the recruiting process as a primary factor in his choice. He said TCU recruiters maintained contact for two years and attended events when other programs did not. "From the start they (TCU) did it right," Welch said. He also emphasized the offensive system. "I think their play style is going to fit me perfectly," he noted.

The senior forward posted strong statistical numbers during his high school career. In his junior season, he averaged 16.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game. His father, Nick Welch Sr., noted that his son changed his approach to the sport in ninth grade. Welch Sr. said his son began waking up for 5 a.m. workouts to prepare for a collegiate career.

Welch Sr., who played at the Air Force Academy from 2002 to 2007, praised the development of his son under Rolling Hills Prep coach Harvey Kitani. "Harvey is the best," Welch Sr. said. He credited Kitani with shaping Welch Jr. both on and off the court during their four years at the school.

Coach Kitani expressed confidence in his player's future role. "He will be a captain and graduate from the university," Kitani said. He described Welch Jr. as a deserving student athlete who will make a strong impact on any program he joins.

The commitment locks in one of the top local prospects for the upcoming college season. Welch will join the TCU roster after completing his senior year at Rolling Hills Prep.