Big 12 Basketball: Breaking down each program’s 2018 recruiting class

Texas Longhorns

Class rankings: 2nd in the Big 12, 8th nationally

Commitments: Courtney Ramey (43), Gerald Lidell (49), Kamaka Hepa (56), Jaxson Hayes (99) and Brock Cunningham (209)

This could be the draft class that sets up head coach Shaka Smart for longterm success with Texas. Unlike in previous years, there aren’t any projected “one and done” players. But that’s actually fine for the Longhorns in this case as they have quality starters already in the fold.

These players will be part of the rotation, but with the exception of Ramey on the perimeter, none of them will be expected to play major roles on the 2018-19 team. Texas still needs shooting depth, so Ramey will be needed. On the wings, top-50 prospect Liddell will use his versatility to inject some offense when needed. Then there’s Hepa and Cunningham, two guys who can spread the floor and become rotation players over time.

Hayes might be the most fascinating recruit out of the group. He just had a growth spurt and is now a full power forward ar 6’10. But the skills he learned while playing out on the perimeter remains. Once Dylan Osetkowski graduates after next season, look for Hayes to become a focal point for Texas.