NCAA Basketball: Analyzing grad transfer Charles Minlend’s finalists

Arkansas Razorbacks

Arkansas basketball is an interesting state this offseason. With Mason Jones and Isaiah Joe both in NBA Draft consideration, the Razorbacks could be either loaded in the backcourt or in desperate need of an immediate talent influx depending on their respective decisions. Under the leadership of head coach Eric Musselman, the program has had no trouble bringing in high-level talent and that is evidenced by their impressive 2020 recruiting class, which is ranked at No. 7 in the nation.

This quartet of incoming freshmen includes three guards with Moses Moody (No. 45 overall), KK Robinson (No. 71) and Davonte Davis (No. 98). Moody is presumably the only lock to see immediate big-time minutes with the program as the Razorbacks could look to bring the other two along slowly. Considering their youth in the backcourt (if Jones and/or Joe leave for the pros), it makes sense for Coach Musselman to look to the graduate transfer market for experience and an immediately-eligible contributor.

Charles Minlend fits that mold and his 6-foot-4 frame also allows him to play a variety of positions. While he is not exactly a sniper from beyond the arc, he is definitely a capable offensive threat and gets downhill in a hurry. Arkansas is also clearly showing plenty of interest in the graduate transfer as the program conducted a virtual visit with him prior to his list cut.

There is a high chance that Minlend could fill a starting or sixth man role during his final collegiate season if he commits to playing in Fayetteville. Coach Musselman is one of the most energetic leaders in the country and he gives his guards a ton of offensive freedom that could be appealing. His system is certainly fun to watch and it has been successful as well. I like this fit.