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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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3. Jayson Tatum, F, Duke Blue Devils

This season offers a very deep and talented class of freshmen, particularly when compared to 2015. While there are plenty of excellent players in the top 10 rankings and beyond, three recruits stand out as the consensus elite: Tatum, Giles and Jackson.

Two of those top three will be headed to Duke to play their freshman seasons at Cameron Indoor. Tatum committed to the Blue Devils last July, as they narrowly edged out archrival North Carolina, among other choices.

Unlike most players in this ranking, Tatum isn’t regarded as a top prospect just due to sheer athleticism. Instead, scouts have been raving about Tatum’s developed feel for the game, ball-handling skills, and ability to create his own shot. Having a 6-8 frame out on the wing will cause matchup problems for opponents, although he needs to get a bit stronger at 190 pounds.

Tatum was excellent at the three major national games this spring, averaging 16.7 points and 5.7 rebounds per contest. While Tatum may be behind a few others in NBA stock (for now), he’s going to be a treat to watch in college with his advanced all-around game.

Much like with the title squad of two years ago, Duke as two elite freshman recruits, and will be one of the teams to watch when the regular season rolls around.

Next: 2. Harry Giles, F, Duke Blue Devils