Memorabilia Market for High Schoolers

If college basketball coaches can start recruiting middle school kids, maybe it shouldn't come as a surprise.

Top level high school athletes--especially basketball players--are gaining popularity on the memorabilia market.

Thanks to the internet and national TV appearances organized by ESPN, the profile of America's top talent is rising.

The best recruits are seen as possible future pro stars by fans and collectors. Some are looking to take a calculated risk they've latched on to an autograph of the next LeBron James or Kobe Bryant. Others just want a tangible memory of the best player they ever may see in person.

TampaBay.com found at least one blue chip recruit who has already started watching his mailbox for autograph requests from dealers--and turning them down.