Big Ten Basketball: 5 biggest takeaways from 2019 recruiting classes

Northwestern needs immediate production from 2019 class

After a historic NCAA Tournament appearance a couple of years ago, Chris Collins and Northwestern Basketball has gone back to the bottom of the Big Ten. They finished last season with a 4-14 conference record and graduates their top three scorers. No one for the Wildcats who’s returning averaged more than 8.7 ppg and only two players returned who scored more than five points a night.

The most notable incoming player is Pat Spencer, a former lacrosse star who transferred to Northwestern Basketball for one final season. Based on the projected roster, he could have a real shot at playing time next year. But it’s the incoming recruits for the Wildcats that may determine Coach Collins’ fate.

The top recruit coming in is Robbie Beran, a four-star power forward ranked just outside the top-100. He’s a versatile stretch frontcourt player who would fit well with rising senior AJ Turner. Joining him are center Jared Jones and point guard Daniel Blue. The three-star ball handler should help the perimeter game for Northwestern and give them a real option at the point guard spot.

Some classes aren’t expected to make a huge impact in year one but this group of Wildcats have to; otherwise they’ll be back on the very bottom of the Big Ten and possibly needing a new head coach. Look for Beran to be one of the top freshmen this upcoming season.