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UNLV Basketball: Runnin’ Rebels surprisingly land Brandon McCoy

By Drew Dinnhaupt

Feb 19, 2017; San Diego, CA, USA; UNLV Rebels head coach Marvin Menzies reacts during the first half against the San Diego State Aztecs at Viejas Arena at Aztec Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 19, 2017; San Diego, CA, USA; UNLV Rebels head coach Marvin Menzies reacts during the first half against the San Diego State Aztecs at Viejas Arena at Aztec Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /
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UNLV Basketball: Though not favorites, UNLV landed five-star center Brandon McCoy last night, per his Twitter page.

2017 five-star center Brandon McCoy has committed to UNLV over Arizona, Michigan State, Oregon, and others. Oregon was favored to land McCoy, as per his Crystal Ball. The Ducks owned 58 percent of the Crystal Ball, while UNLV had just 11 percent. Arizona and Michigan State owned shares of the Crystal Ball as well.

The San Diego native ranks as the nation’s No. 13 senior, according to 247Sports. He is the highest-rated recruit from California in his class.

The announcement is relatively overdue, considering the big man wrapped up all his official visits prior to the termination of November.

Nevertheless, McCoy’s commitment gives the Runnin’ Rebels their 10th top-50 recruit since 2012, a feat no other mid-major programs reached. McCoy is the highest rated recruit by 247Sports to decide on UNLV since Stephen Zimmerman in 2015.

McCoy had a fantastic showing at the recent Jordan Brand Classic. Posting 15 points and 13 rebounds, McCoy was the game’s lone double-double. He added three blocks to the stat sheet as well. Additionally, McCoy stood out in the McDonald’s All-American game as he went for 13 points and seven rebounds, six of which came on the offensive end. He continued to make his presence felt down low, as he blocked four shots in just 20 minutes of floor time.

According to ESPN’s scouting report, “There isn’t a post prospect in his class that has the quick feet, soft touch, length, and bounce of McCoy.” It adds that McCoy should further develop his post skills as well as decision-making in the paint. The scout states that McCoy reminds him of Marquese Chriss, who was a top-10 pick in last year’s NBA Draft.

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Brandon McCoy gives immense assistance to a UNLV program that has been plagued by departures as of late. His commitment singlehandedly makes the Runnin’ Rebels among the top three in the Mountain West for next season.