Michigan Basketball: Juwan Howard’s ideal 2020 recruiting class

Elite wing Scottie Barnes

When Howard took the job at Michigan, one question was how would his sons possibly help him on the recruiting trail. Jace Howard is a member of the 2020 class and is a legit three-star prospect, while Jett Howard of 2022, could wind up as a five-star recruit.

Both Howards played at University School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida last season and one of their teammates just happened to be Scottie Barnes, one of the elite wings in 2020.

Barnes, a 6-foot-8, 210-pound small forward, is certainly a one-and-done type of guy and ranks sixth among all players in the class, as well as second at his position and second in the state of Florida.

How realistic a chance Michigan basketball has at getting Barnes remains to be seen. He told the Detroit Free Press earlier this week that he wasn’t sure he could put the Wolverines among this top eight. Yet, he also stressed how close he is to coach Howard.

“I’m really close to that dude, I know what he’ll do for me, I know that he’ll set me up,” Barnes said. “For him being at the NBA level, and he’s just going down to Michigan, I know he’s really passionate about that job and he really cares about it.”

Since this list is partially about dreams and not just reality, it makes sense to include Barnes who would be the ultimate home run for Howard.