Minnesota Basketball: Breaking down the 2019 recruiting class

Isaiah Ihnen – Germany

PF | 6-foot-9 | 190 lbs | No. 90 overall

Isaiah Ihnen is the top-rated freshman joining the program for this coming season and he is extremely intriguing. At 6-foot-9 with a lengthy wingspan, many have already projected that he has professional potential. Ranked as the No. 90 overall recruit, it is also important to mention that he possesses a fair amount of skill to go with his excellent measurements. His potential, though, is certainly through the roof as a result of his measurements and plus athleticism.

With regards to what he can immediately bring to the table, Ihnen’s versatility stands out. He has the ability to play multiple different positions when on the court and can function as a wing slasher or spot-up shooter on the perimeter. Although a solid option in the halfcourt, he is at his best when running in transition or taking advantage of a mismatch. He can also be a very difficult player to score on due to his lateral quickness and length.

Without Amir Coffey, who departed this offseason, there could be playing time available for Ihnen right away. His versatility should be on full display with his ability to play multiple positions and function in many different roles. It will be a luxury for Coach Pitino to have a player like Ihnen on the roster and will be interesting to see how he is utilized.

That concludes this look at Minnesota’s 2019 recruiting class. These three commits all project as solid contributors over the next few seasons and Ihnen, in particular, boasts star potential. Coach Pitino might need one or two of these newcomers to step up in order to reach a second consecutive NCAA Tournament.