NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Analyzing 2021 Paolo Banchero’s final 6 teams

Paolo Banchero is arguably the best big man in the 2021 NCAA Basketball Recruiting class. Which powerhouse programs are in line to land him?

With the five-star prospects in the 2020 NCAA Basketball recruiting class all taken care of, the focus has now turned towards the stars in the class of 2021. One of those players includes Paolo Banchero, considered to be the most talented overall big man in the group.

The 6’10 forward is the prime example of what the modern-day big man should look like in the NBA. He’s as versatile as they come, scoring both inside, outside and either with his back towards or against the basket. Banchero is a quality passer, who defends at a high level as well. There’s next to no real weakness in his game, which is why the O’Dea High School basketball star is a consensus top-5 overall prospect, regardless of the recruiting outlet.

The overall recruitment has already been in full gear for the services of Banchero. Months ago, the five-star forward had a list of 10 teams, while adding the Arizona Wildcats later on. That has now changed, with him now narrowing his choices down to a final six.

For those who have been following, this list isn’t too big of a surprise. Baylor, Oklahoma State and Georgetown were always viewed as longshots, while it seems as if Arizona edged out North Carolina for the sixth spot. Duke, Kentucky, Gonzaga and Tennessee already had official visits with Banchero in the past year, while Washington, being the local option, has always been viewed as a real contender.

While most players have a clear-cut team or two as a favorite, this process seems to be wide-open. Banchero plans to make a decision closer to the Fall than in the Spring but anything can change, including the possibility of going to the G League. But for now, let’s examine each potential fit for Banchero with each of these finalists.