When Syracuse first started recruiting City College junior C.J. Fair, he didn’t automatically think about other Baltimore prospects that ended up playing for the Orange.

But on Saturday, when Fair became the third Charm City small forward to commit to Syracuse this decade, the four-star prospect finally made the connection.

“I wasn’t really thinking about [former Syracuse and Towson Catholic standouts Carmelo Anthony and Donte Greene] at the time, but then I looked back, and there is a little Baltimore trend for my position,” Fair said. “But I want to make my own route my own way.”

While Fair, 6 feet 8, might not have immediately equated himself with the likes of Anthony and Greene, the Syracuse coaching staff did have an effective recruiting pitch about how they’ve used people in his position in the past.

“They were saying every year their small forward leads them in scoring, which is perfect because they know I can score the ball real well,” Fair said. “I’d help them get over the hump.”

Fair, who averaged 20 points and six rebounds as a sophomore, chose Syracuse over Louisville, Georgetown, Virginia, Virginia Tech, NC State, Wake Forest and Kentucky. He committed during an unofficial visit to Syracuse with his parents, younger sister and Baltimore Stars AAU coach.

Fair said he didn’t intend to commit on his visit, but after meeting with the coaches, and checking out his future home court, Fair was sold on Syracuse.

“I walked in the Carrier Dome and my eyes lit up. I was just picturing the 40,000 people that will be there and playing in front of them,” Fair said. “It all caught my eye ... Coach [Jim] Boeheim is in the Hall of Fame. Talking to him is just a blessing. Coach Rob Murphy, he’s tremendous. I like his whole demeanor. [The Syracuse staff has been] straight up and honest with me.”

Beyond basketball, Fair said he was impressed with Syracuse’s communications department and the lack of separation between athletes and regular students on campus.

Right now Fair is focused on finishing rehab for his knee. He tore his ACL last spring, but said he’s almost regained his full range of motion and should be ready to suit up for City by December or January. In the meantime, Fair will have his eye on Syracuse from now on.

“I’m real excited,” Fair said. “It’s a big relief.”

Click on the YouTube player for highlights of Fair.