Big 12 Basketball: Top 5 incoming freshmen for 2018-19

By Brian Rauf | Jul 10, 2018

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 28: Quentin Grimes #5 of The Woodlands College Park H.S. attacks the basket against Romeo Langford #22 of New Albany High School and EJ Montgomery #3 of Wheeler High School during the 2018 McDonald's All American Game at Philips Arena on March 28, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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AUSTIN, TX – FEBRUARY 3: Head coach Shaka Smart of the Texas Longhorns reacts as his team plays the Oklahoma Sooners at the Frank Erwin Center on February 3, 2018 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Chris Covatta/Getty Images) /

5. Courtney Ramey, Texas

Ramey originally committed to Louisville but backed out after Rick Pitino’s firing and the other fallout from the FBI investigation into college basketball, and Texas swooped in to nab this talented player in late April.

The Longhorns return both backcourt starters from last year’s team in Matt Coleman and Kerwin Roach II – plus potentially Andrew Jones if he is able to return after battling leukemia – meaning that it will be tough for the 6-3, 170-pounder to earn a starting spot from day one.

However, head coach Shaka Smart does like to employ guard-heavy lineups. Six different guards started at least one game for the Longhorns last season and all six averaged at least 15.7 minutes per game, meaning Ramey will still see a good deal of playing time.

Ramey’s athleticism and energy will ensure he sees plenty of time on the court as well. He’s still raw as a ball-handler (something he may not have to do much with Coleman running the show) but has the kind of speed that always makes him a threat in transition. His biggest impact might be on the defensive end where he uses his quickness to disrupt opposing guards.

Ramey is not expected to be a one-and-done prospect but will still play a big role for Texas and will become a fan favorite in Austin.

Check out his highlight tape below, courtesy of Lob City Productions.

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