NCAA Basketball: Analyzing 2021 5-star C Charles Bediako’s top 10 teams

Duke Blue Devils

Coach K and the Duke program have not experienced any difficulties recruiting top talent, regardless if they’re from across the border. 2018 star RJ Barrett hailed from Canada and played for, the same Nike EYBL team as Bediako, UPlay Canada. The Blue Devils have been very selective thus far in recruiting the 2021 class and Bediako remains the only frontcourt prospect alongside Paolo Banchero to receive an offer.

Bediako’s offensive game needs to develop more, but the potential for him to be a strong NBA prospect once it’s all put together is certainly there. Although there’s debate around incoming center Mark William’s one-and-done prospects at Duke, Bediako can stand to gain a lot from competing against him and other top players in practice as well as the other top teams in the ACC.

Bediako spoke on the offer he received from Coach K in 2019, noting the Hall of Fame coach wanted to improve his footwork and develop his offensive game in addition to the strong defensive performances he already contributes. The elite talent the program will place around him can help to diffuse the defensive pressure he may feel and will allow him to exhibit a lot more focus and energy on the offensive side of the court. The night in and night out competition at the highest levels of college basketball will help to speed up his development and likelihood of reaching his potential.