He's from St. Louis....Missouri. Every kid is different. What matters to one kid is irrelevant to the next. Proximity is still a bonus unless you don't care if your folks can see you in person.
Proximity is a bonus. Sure, but it appears that it's about as much a bonus as the 10 cents off your Coke that might show up a bottle cap.
All indications, across the country, are that proximity is further and further down the list of priorities, almost to the point of being inconsequential.
Here are a few reasons that I can think of.
1. Airline travel has become cheaper and easier than ever. With some sacrifices, your parents will get to see you.
2. Games are televised more than ever.
3. As a general rule, people have more flexibility in work schedules and more disposable income than at any time in the past. This means more and more families are able to arrange times to watch games.
Of course, anyone looking to play in a power conference is also looking to get to the next level and get paid. That means a coach that can get you there, and time on the court to show case talent. Those are going to far far outweigh proximity for most players.