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10 college basketball recruits we’re excited to see next season

By Nathaniel Reeves

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 15: West Team MVP Malik Monk (L) (Bentonville, AR) in action during the 15th iteration of the Jordan Brand Classic at Barclays Center on April 15, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images for Jordan Brand )
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 15: West Team MVP Malik Monk (L) (Bentonville, AR) in action during the 15th iteration of the Jordan Brand Classic at Barclays Center on April 15, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images for Jordan Brand ) /
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7. Bam Adebayo, F, Kentucky Wildcats

Yet another Kentucky recruit seemingly destined for stardom, Adebayo will be a force down low for the Wildcats if he can add some polish offensively.

Adebayo committed to Calipari in mid-November, becoming the fourth five-star recruit to land with Kentucky for 2016. Even if Adebayo is a bit undersized for a true center at 6-9, 230 pounds, his huge wingspan and sheer strength will help him hold his own in the block, both offensively and defensively.

Coaches noted Adebayo’s ability to run the floor well, and his high motor allows him to pile up rebounds and blocks. While Adebayo hasn’t shown the refined scoring technique of someone like Bolden, he has one of the highest ceilings in the country, and will be a thrill to watch should he put everything together.

Adebayo has already grabbed national attention for his performance in the McDonald’s All-American Game, as he put up 16 points on 6/9 shooting, along with 12 rebounds. Considering Adebayo was going up against fellow top recruits like Jackson and T.J. Leaf, his odds of becoming an impact freshman are looking promising.

Adding Adebayo put Kentucky’s recruiting class on another level, particularly down low with Wenyen Gabriel and potentially Bolden in the fold.

Next: 6. Lonzo Ball, G, UCLA Bruins