Three-Star SF AJ Swinton commits to Florida State

Arlington (Va.) Bishop O’Connell three-star small forward AJ Swinton has committed to Florida State, he told On3. 

The 6-foot-5, 180-pound rising senior chose the Seminoles over Georgetown, West Virginia, and others. He was previously committed to Virginia Tech, before reopening his recruitment.

Swinton spoke to On3 about his decision to choose Florida State. 

“Florida State is Big Guard University! They develop players like me. Coach (Leonard) Hamilton’s track record says it all. He’s a legend! The recruiting process with FSU was extremely straightforward and the coaches were very clear with how they envision me within their system.”

Florida State’s style of play contributed to Swinton’s decision to choose the ‘Noles.

“They play fast-paced and Coach Hamilton allows his players freedom within his offense. Coach Hamilton and Nickleberry watched me all spring/summer and have really seen how my game has evolved. My passing goes under the radar a lot and that’s one of the things they recognized about my game. The coaching staff value my IQ, my ability to play multiple positions and the passion I bring to the game.”

Swinton talks his game and has a message for FSU fans

“I’m an explosive and versatile three-level scorer that can play multiple positions. I can score from the perimeter and use my length best to score in transition. My skill set allows me to create shots for myself and others but I also don’t need the ball in my hand to impact the game. When teams go small my size allows me to take advantage of mismatches. The pride I take on the defensive end and really separate myself from a lot of other players. Defense really fuels my game and I’ve seen how quickly playing team defense can change the momentum of a game.”

Lastly, Swinton would like to share a message with the Florida State fans.

“I’m a game changer and I’m going to do whatever it takes for our team to win games! Let’s go Noles!”

Scouting Report

“AJ Swinton is a sturdy and lengthy wing. He has played predominantly in the paint at a younger age and is expanding out to the perimeter. The early returns on the jump shot are positive; he has a smooth form with a repeatable release. Swinton is also good in straight lines; he will need to continue working on counter moves off the bounce. He has a good burst at the rim, and there is upside as a switchable defender and good rebounder for his size. With the success of tweener forwards who can shoot and switch in the college game, there is clarity for his player archetype.” – On3’s Jamie Shaw

According to the On3 Industry Rankings, Swinton is the No. 115 overall prospect in the 2024 cycle. He’s also the No. 35 small forward prospect. The On3 Industry Ranking is a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.