San Diego State coach Steve Fisher contacted Bruce Weber about a month ago to inquire about Brian Carlwell, the former Illini center without a home.

Months had passed since Carlwell announced his intention to leave Illinois, but he had yet to find a school and time was running short. Weber shot straight with Fisher.

“I tried to be as honest as possible,” Weber said Wednesday. “I said if Brian could ever get back in shape and lose weight, he could be a decent player.”

Weber couldn’t say anything about Carlwell for the longest time because he was struggling in the classroom. But Carlwell’s work improved and he announced this week that he would be transferring to San Diego State.

Fisher apparently is willing to take a chance. Weber wasn’t. In the end, Carlwell wanted to return to Illinois, but Weber didn’t see any indication that the native of Maywood, Ill., was going to change.

“I’m not sure the environment here was the best. Maybe he needed a switch.”

Meanwhile, Rodney Alexander appears headed to Oklahoma City University, which plays in the NAIA. Alexander also had academic problems, but Weber was told this week he wouldn’t count as an 0-for-2 on the team’s academic progress rate. An 0-for-2 is someone who leaves school and wouldn’t have been eligible to return.

Elsewhere, Shaun Pruitt and Brian Randle are preparing for life after Illinois. Both are hoping for a shot in the NBA, although a career overseas is more likely.

Pruitt participated in the NBA pre-draft camp in Orlando. Weber heard good reviews about Pruitt’s rebounding and work ethic but most comments about his offensive skills were negative.

“He realizes he has to be physical to give himself a chance,” Weber said.

Randle most recently worked out for Seattle. Weber said he needs to find a summer league team and improve his stock to play in a good European league.