St. Rita senior forward A.J. Avery committed to Western Michigan on Monday.

Avery, a 6-6, 195-pound small forward, chose the Broncos over interest from Iowa, Ohio and Oregon State.

Avery was the third Chicago-area Class of 2012 recruit to commit to the Broncos in the past two weeks. Lake Forest Academy guard Charles Harris and Warren forward Darius Paul also previously committed to Western Michigan.

"I think they did a heck of a job recruiting this class," St. Rita coach Gary DeCesare said. "In the MAC, you need very good, versatile players. That's a really good class they got.

"I think they got a heck of a player in A.J. I think it's all in his versatility. He's a good defensive player. He understands the game. He rebounds the ball very well. He's a team-oriented player. He has a very good shot."

Avery had considered waiting until after his high school season to commit, but he decided otherwise after recently visiting Western Michigan.

"I really liked the coaching staff," Avery said. "They'll get me better. They showed they really wanted me."