Big East Basketball: Analyzing each program’s 2019 recruiting class

Butler struggled tremendously down the stretch last season but there are still reasons for optimism for the 2019-20 season. Most notably, Kamar Baldwin is back for his senior season as one of the best players in the country. Additionally, three other potential starters are returning from last year and the entire frontcourt is revamped by way of the transfer market. Oh, and head coach LaVall Jordan is also adding one of the best recruits in program history to the mix.

Khalif Battle, a 6-foot-5 wing from New Jersey, comes in as the No. 99 overall prospect from the 2019 class. He is a superb athlete, knockdown 3-point shooter, and fits the mold of an immediate impact player for the Dawgs. It is unlikely that he will be a starter this season but his positional versatility and scoring ability will make him one of the top reserves in the conference. Battle is a player that should be on everyone’s radar as an elite newcomer in the Big East. He is very talented and will see plenty of playing time.

Butler’s other 2019 commit, John-Michael Mulloy (No. 309), is not expected to see major minutes this season but could be an impact player down the road. Mulloy is a 6-foot-9 mobile center with great passing ability and solid post moves. He is also quite consistent defensively with underrated athleticism. He will need to add some muscle before emerging as a legit rotation player at the Big East level. Mulloy seems to be a potential redshirt candidate considering the Dawgs already have Bryce Nze, Bryce Golden, and Derrik Smits holding down the frontcourt.