NCAA Basketball: Fabulous freshman of 2016

Mar 30, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; From left to right McDonald's All-Americans Josh Jackson (11), Marques Bolden (1), Terrance Ferguson (6), and Jarrett Allen (31) who are all presently undecided on choice of college to attend pose for a group photo before the McDonald's High School All-American Game at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American guard Malik Monk dunks during the McDonalds All-American Powerade Jamfest at the Chicago Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Malik Monk (Kentucky)

When five-star recruit Malik Monk chose to attend Kentucky over the University of Arkansas, many Razorbacks fans were noticeably upset. At one point, Arkansas was considered the front-runner to nab the talented recruit, but eventually lost him to the NBA-preparatory machine that is the Kentucky Wildcats.

One notable Razorback that shared his opinion on the matter was 2015 SEC Player of the Year Bobby Portis.

https://twitter.com/BPortistime/status/667022985480400896

Clearly, this jab was intended for Monk, who committed to Kentucky the same day. Perhaps Portis was just standing up for Razorback nation. Or maybe he was frustrated seeing Arkansas lose yet another battle to Kentucky.

Controversy aside, Monk has elite talent and fantastic athletic ability. He’s at his best in the open court when he can display his speed and leaping ability. He should provide head coach John Calipari with a reliable three-point shooter, and he won’t hesitate to put opponents on the wrong end of a highlight reel dunk.

Monk, a 6’4”, 180-pound shooting guard, chose Wildcats over offers from Arkansas, Florida State, Kansas, North Carolina and Oregon.

Next: 8. Dennis Smith Jr.

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