Texas Basketball: Analyzing potential 2020-21 rotation for Longhorns

Center

Minutes Allocated (40 total): Jericho Sims (30), Will Baker (10)

Center was a real weakness for Texas down the stretch, as the lack of a backup center proved to be a major issue for Shaka Smart.

The reason why center was a weakness is because of the injury suffered by Jericho Sims. Sims, a rising senior, was beginning to assert himself of one of the top centers in the conference before going down with a season-ending injury in February.

Sims explored the NBA and transferring, but is going to be back in Austin for his final season. A growing talent on offense and a formidable defensive center, Sims is the Longhorns’ X-factor in the starting lineup. If he can improve upon the strides he made before his season was cut short, Texas could have a great offensive unit.

Behind Sims is Will Baker. Baker, a former McDonald’s All-American, played sparingly last season, as his freshman year was used for development. I would expect Smart to use Baker a good amount out of the gate, as he showed potential when given the opportunity.

Baker will be groomed to start as a junior once Sims is gone, but I would not be surprised to see him play big minutes if he reaches his potential as a blue-chip recruit.

Texas’ depth is its strong suit, and perhaps Shaka Smart’s biggest challenge next season will be finding a way to get everyone on the floor, as Texas has 13 players capable of contributing to a conference championship-level team.