Louisville took another step in its recruitment of Pike High School basketball star Marquis Teague, hiring Pike assistant coach Shabaka Lands.

Lands was the top assistant this past season for Pike.

Teague is ranked No. 2 in the country by Rivals among players in the 2011 class and has been one of the most highly sought players, with Indiana University and Purdue among many schools pursuing him.

HIGHLIGHT VIDEO: Watch Marquis Teague shine during a high school practice.
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Lands’ position is as a special assistant to Louisville coach Rick Pitino.

“He’s an excellent coach. I’m very happy for him. It’s a great opportunity for him,” said Shawn Teague, Marquis’ father. “Without question, we have a lot of respect for him.

“But that’s a situation for him. The impact that will have speaking in regards to Marquis or myself, there’s nothing there other than it’s a great opportunity for him. Marquis is going to make a decision on what’s best for him.”

In addition to IU, Purdue and Louisville, Teague is considering Kentucky, Ohio State, Wake Forest and Cincinnati.

The Teagues already have an established relationship with Pitino. Shawn Teague played for Pitino at Boston University.