NCAA Basketball: Top 25 most impactful freshmen for 2019-20 season
By Brian Rauf
16) Chol Marial, C, Maryland
Marial, a 7-2, 230-pound big man, is just that – a big man. His biggest asset is his size and uses that to make an impact whenever he’s on the court, but he also possesses some unicorn-like abilities.
Injuries have caused Marial to fall down the recruiting rankings (he’s only No. 166 overall in the 247sports Composite), but his skill level could make him a steal for Maryland.
Obviously, being 7-2 with an eight-foot wingspan gives Marial tremendous upside as a rebounder and shot-blocker. However, he’s also very mobile and agile for someone his size which, combined with his length, allow him to get off a wide array of shots and finishes.
Coaches have praised Marial’s vision and passing ability as well, and head coach Mark Turgeon should take advantage of those skills by using him as a secondary playmaker in both the high and low post. Perhaps most impressively, Marial can also space the floor with his three-point shot.
When healthy, there isn’t a lot he can’t do – the problem is just staying out on the court. If the can stay healthy, he’ll give the Terrapins one of the Big Ten’s best frontcourts between him and returning starter Jalen Smith – and that could take Maryland from being a really good team to being a Final Four contender.