Michigan Basketball: Wolverines prioritizing all-star cast from IMG Academy
2021
If there is no attrition and those committed honor their pledge, Michigan basketball has two scholarship spots to fill for 2021. The positions coach Howard and Co. must fill are center and point guard. While there doesn’t appear to be an interested party from the highly regarded academy from Florida to step in at the point, there are two options at center.
Speaking of PG, Frankie Collins is committing on Wednesday and is trending towards the Wolverines. Read about that by clicking or pressing here.
Efton Reid
There is a report out there claiming UM is in the lead for Efton Reid‘s services. There’s also a report out there saying Efton Reid is one of the toughest prospects to get a read on, essentially negating the previous story. The interest is undoubtedly mutual, and Michigan might be the landing spot for the reported 7-footer, but it might be too early to tell.
If the five-star, who’s ranked 21st nationally and the fourth-best center, picks UM, here’s what the Wolverines would be getting, according to 247 sports Jerry Meyer:
“Has NBA center size. Game is skill-based and not athletically based. Has good footwork and touch in post. Can stretch defense to three-point line. Comfortable with the ball as a passer. Has good hands and rebounds his area. Not a big shot blocker. Positional defender inside. Needs to improve quickness to defend on perimeter.”
Charles Bediako
Way back in October, a crystal ball was placed for Charles Bediako to Alabama. That’s really early and it’s the only prediction out there. And, as are many predictions, it’s subject to change.
If UM is unable to seal the deal with Reid, Bediako would actually be a higher-ranked replacement, by one spot. Charles sits at 20th nationally and third at center.
We turn to Josh Gershon this time with the evaluation:
“Mobile center with good size, long arms, and budding athleticism. Very physically immature with a frame that should eventually carry a lot more weight. Has improved motor/competitiveness throughout high school career. Still relatively raw on offense but hands and feet don’t give serious limitations. Can finish with both hands but prefers right. Footwork and face up ability could improve. Has made progress as rebounder and rim protector with strength. Needs to get stronger and add to skill but has high ceiling. On path to be high major starter with professional upside depending on skill development.”
Next. Coaches and others optimistic about a season. dark
Matt’s musings
The word on the street is Michigan is the frontrunner for Reid and Jett Howard, and are trailing ever so slightly for Jarace Walker. As mentioned, there are only two scholarships to fill, so if all three committed, Michigan would be over the limit. As we all know, however, Juwan knows how to make it work, and if a top 50 kid wants a spot on the roster, he’ll get one.
As a side note, there are others on the talented IMG Academy roster that are worthy of being prioritized by the Wolverines. However, the prospects listed above are the ones who seem to be the ones targeted the most by the staff.