Virginia Basketball: Breaking down the 2018 recruiting class

SF Kody Stattmann – Australia

Just in case Virginia needed more shooting, enter Kody Stattmann (No. 332). One of the better shooters in the entire 2018 class, this Australian product can make it rain from beyond the arc. Standing at 6-foot-6, the wing is a dangerous scorer because of his quick release and pinpoint accuracy from distance. What makes Stattmann so special as a shooter, in my opinion, is his ability to work without the basketball. Stattman is an excellent shooter when coming off of screens and is deadly when left open in transition.

A solid athlete as well, Stattmann has the potential to be a solid defender. He has enough size and athleticism to match up with most opposing wings and should develop nicely in Coach Bennett’s scheme. Because of Stattman’s size and 3-point shooting, it is reasonable to expect that he should find a substantial reserve role as a freshman. Of course, Stattmann’s playing time will depend on his defensive abilities as well as how some of the returning players develop.

Virginia is not incredibly deep on the wings and adding another shooter never hurt anyone. Stattmann also does not need the ball in his hands to succeed. Just his presence on the court should space the floor and therefore create more driving lanes for guards. According to 247Sports, Stattmann had this to say about his commitment to Virginia:

"“I chose it because it’s a great program and full of great coaches. Also I wanted to be challenged by going to the ACC and playing the best of the best.”"