Purdue Basketball: Breaking down the 2019 recruiting class

Mason Gillis – New Castle, IN

PF | 6-foot-6 | 215 lbs | No. 209 overall

Although not the tallest frontcourt player in the 2019 class, Mason Gillis is a bruiser with a versatile offensive game. Depending on the surrounding pieces on the court, he has the ability to either use his muscle around the rim to finish through contact or step out and knock down an open jumper. This all-around offensive game will make him a strong frontcourt option for Coach Painter while his size allows him to defend a couple of different positions.

Due to missing his entire senior high school season (knee injury), Gillis’ ranking is not indicative of his overall skill if he gets back to 100%. For reference, he was once ranked as high as No. 129 in the class last January. Following recovery and practices with the team, I would expect that Gillis will return at least close to his prior form. Purdue did a tremendous job recruiting in-state prospects during this past year and Gillis (along with the other two commits) are representative of that.

When healthy, Gillis’ versatility is arguably his best skill. He can defend any position 2-through-4 due to his well-built frame and above-average athleticism. On the offensive end of the floor, he is very difficult to match up with thanks to his strength and range. If he improves as a ball handler and passer…he can be quite special.