Look at it this way.....the family has kept their secret very well and a good part of XF's secrecy is due to his parents great guidance. I applaud them on how well they have helped keep things in check until the final reveal.
As a parent and as a player I am sure they are looking at where his NBA potential and developmental guidance would be most beneficial. Sure the coaches and the players on the team play a major role in this as well as the fan base.
However, trying to be objective in a decision like this I would instantly go to asking myself the question of :
"Who has the experiences and the ability to tell me how things really are in the world of going from college to the NBA. Who can help guide my development? Who can I call on to see what I need to keep in mind as I continue through college basketball?"
That is clearly ISU. We have players like Monte, Niang, Nader, Thomas, Naz, and Burton among others that maintain relationships with ISU and the staff. They feel connected to the program and university. I feel that these guys would welcome the chance to give advice to any players attending ISU, especially those that can develop into legit NBA potential. These guys have learned lessons and been through things that are valuable. These guys didn't have those players talk to when they were here and would be willing to give that help that they couldn't get. I just don't see this type of value to a player at EIU.
Kids can be fickle though. We assume that he wants to play in the NBA someday. That may not be his ultimate goal though. We may be projecting that onto him as well as everyone of his coaches and the media.
If his primary goal is not the NBA but a good education while playing ball and moving onto a degree career, then it may only come down to where he feels he can enjoy both with his family...that could be EIU.
But if the goal is also the NBA, then it should definitely be ISU.