Standout 2020 prospect back from Notre Dame visit

GARDENA, Calif. - Lavon Bunkley-Shelton has emerged as one of many top targets in Gardena (Calif.) Serra’s offense and the 2020 prospect has seen his recruitment pick up this season.

So far, the speedster has landed offers from BYU, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, TCU and Utah. He said the Ducks definitely have his attention the most and that he’s always been a fan of that program.

“They’ve been my favorite team,” Bunkley-Shelton said. “I’ve always liked them.”

Another school has now captured his attention.

The 2020 recruit who could play wide receiver or defensive back visited Notre Dame this past weekend and had an excellent experience.

He didn’t leave Southern California until after his Serra team defeated Long Beach (Calif.) Poly late Friday night but his time in South Bend was definitely memorable.

“Notre Dame was a great experience,” Bunkley-Shelton said. “Their prestige and history is second to none. My flight got there a little late so I missed the tour and Irish Walk.

“I met my host at the Knute Rockne Gate of the newly-renovated stadium and from there we entered the recruit lounge. That lounge was insane, like a man cave on steroids. If you ever have the chance I suggest the lemon drops and hot cocoa, best ever. But none of that compares to being on the field with 85,000 turning up the entire game in the cold and the rain. Notre Dame fans are lit. They screamed and cheered all game you would never think it was 40 degrees and raining. The energy was indescribable. It was everything I thought a college game would be growing up watching games on TV.”

Bunkley-Shelton has had a solid sophomore season and according to Notre Dame’s coaches, they have noticed. The Irish have not offered yet but the Serra standout is becoming a priority.

So far this season, Bunkley-Shelton has 19 receptions for 203 yards and four touchdowns in eight games.

“I met coach (Del) Alexander and coach (Brian) Polian but they mostly talked to my dad but both let me know that they would be watching me closely and that they really liked my game,” Bunkley-Shelton said.

“After the ND win we got to be in the locker room where coach (Brian) Kelly passed out the game ball and addressed the team and I must say that ND’s facilities are top-notch. New press box and video screen. It was a great experience and I enjoyed myself. Most fun I can recall having in the cold and rain.”