NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Notable late risers in the 2020 class

Mwani Wilkinson – LSU

SF | 6-foot-6 | 195 lbs | No. 73 overall

LSU’s 2020 recruiting class is somehow flying a bit under-the-radar as the No. 5 overall group in the nation. Five-star shooting guard Cameron Thomas (No. 23 overall) is the main headliner of the unit but the class also features a trio of other Top 150 prospects. Perhaps most notably, though, Mwani Wilkinson has been absolutely soaring up recruiting rankings over the course of the last few months.

The 6-foot-6 small forward most notably jumped 67 spots in the final Top247 and that caused his Composite ranking to rise to No. 73 in the class. Many experts touted his performance at the Nike Extravaganza in January/February and that parlayed into his movement up recruiting rankings. It was more than just that event, though, as his steady improvement started back at the start of last summer.

A high-flying athlete with a blossoming all-around offensive game, Wilkinson is still seemingly scratching the surface of his potential. He absolutely boomed over the last year and there is also still room for his hard work to yield another jump. With excellent bounce and body control around the rim, Wilkinson is an excellent finisher that offensively rebounds exceptionally well for his position.

When it comes to describing Wilkinson’s playing style, “versatility” is the first word that comes to mind. This is most evident on the defensive end of the floor, where he projects as an elite stopper. Wilkinson can defend multiple positions on the floor with his 6-foot-6 frame, elite athleticism, and high motor. He can cover on the perimeter and holds his own underneath as well thanks to his physicality and rebounding ability. He is also good for a few highlight-reel blocks every once in a while.