Arizona Basketball: Breakdown of international players from 2020 class

Arizona Basketball newcomer – Daniel Batcho, France – C – 6’10, 220 lbs

Playing for Centre Federal in France’s third division, Batcho averaged 9.0 PPG and 6.3 RPG. He had an impressive showing at the Adidas Next Generation Tournament in Belgrade last year, averaging 14.8 PPG, 11.3 RPG and 1.8 BPG, while securing the tournament MVP. In signing with Arizona, the 18-year old enters a great situation to contribute in his first season on campus.

Batcho may not have a refined arsenal of post-moves at this point in his development, but he is very successful in rebounding the ball and affording himself easy looks at the basket. His physical frame enables ideal positioning for second-chance opportunities and a strong ability to play through contact. He’s the kind of player that could quickly help his team build a lead or alter the momentum in a game.

Assured playing time in his freshman season, Batcho will still likely come off of the bench for the Wildcats. Sophomores Christian Koloko and Jordan Brown, as well as fellow freshman Azuolas Tubelis, hold more potential on both ends of the floor to anchor the paint for Arizona.

Batcho’s ability to single-handedly crash the glass will allow him to relieve both players and the versatility to do so will be necessary given there are only four true frontcourt players on next year’s team.