Michigan Basketball: Breaking down commitment of Youssef Khayat

Michigan basketball landed the commitment of 2022 international forward Youssef Khayat, beating out Xavier and others. Here’s what it means. 

A couple of weeks ago, Michigan basketball fans didn’t even know the name of Youssef Khayat, a Lebanese big-man who was playing basketball in France.

But Juwan Howard knew about him and has been recruiting Khayat for an extended period of time. The Wolverines obviously didn’t want others to find out because Khayat, who is in the 6-foot-9 range is a guy with future NBA potential and someone who can contribute next season.

Yet, Sean Miller and Xavier’s involvement always made things nerve-racking for the Wolverines for good reason but on the Field of 68, Khayat announced his commitment to U-M.

What it means for Michigan basketball

Khayat is viewed as someone who can compete for a starting job right away and he’ll likely be battling with Terrance Williams and possibly Tarris Reed to be Michigan’s starting four.

However, he can shoot the ball and there are some comparisons to Franz Wagner who was a versatile piece on offense and defense. Khayat is expected to be a solid scorer, as well as a solid defender, even if it takes some time to develop.

Here’s his scouting report from Eurohoops.net: 

"“Offensively, Youssef can’t be considered a shot creator at this point. Instead, he scores the majority of his points by running hard in the open court and cutting with great intensity and timing. He displays constant motion off the ball and good reads when taking advantage of defensive mistakes. He also showcased an improved and refined finishing package in the paint, flashing a promising floater.  Moreover, Khayat has tremendous defensive upside thanks to his motor, willingness to sit in a stance, lateral movements and instincts. He projects as someone who could potentially guard both forwards positions at the high major D-1 level and switch onto guards out on the perimeter. He’s not afraid of diving for loose balls and regularly makes winning plays.”"

We’ll have more on this addition soon but for now, the Wolverines have their 13th player and a guy capable of filling the talent void left by Moussa Diabate.