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Big Ten Basketball: Top 10 recruits joining the conference in 2018-19

By Lukas Harkins

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 12: A general interior view of the empty court during the semifinals of the 2011 Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament at Conseco Fieldhouse on March 12, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 12: A general interior view of the empty court during the semifinals of the 2011 Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament at Conseco Fieldhouse on March 12, 2011 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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ORLANDO, FL – MARCH 16: Head coach Mark Turgeon of the Maryland Terrapins reacts. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL – MARCH 16: Head coach Mark Turgeon of the Maryland Terrapins reacts. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

Jalen Smith, Maryland

Center | 6-foot-10 | 195 lbs | No. 16 overall

Even though this past season was a bit of a disappointment for Maryland basketball, it is reasonable to expect a turnaround year in 2018-19. For the most part, this is due to how dominant the team could be up front. With Bruno Fernando returning and Jalen Smith coming in, Maryland basketball is going to be extremely difficult to match up with in the frontcourt. This duo, although young, will more than likely make up one of the best (and most versatile) frontcourts in the Big Ten.

As a player, Smith projects as a modern big due to his incredible length and speed for his size. He runs the floor extremely well and has shown the ability to stretch the floor with a jumper to an extent. Although he could add some muscle to maximize his potential, Smith already has a well-built frame and uses his size and the length to consistently snag rebounds.

Smith is an outstanding athlete and should be an ideal frontcourt fit next to Fernando, who is practically the king of hustle plays. Maryland is also bringing in some other elite recruits along with Smith (already covered Wiggins) and, if this youth and talent can be harnessed, the team could be very good in 2018-19. Head coach Mark Turgeon has consistently performed well since joining the Big Ten (aside from this past season) and it is safe to believe in him.

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