NCAA Basketball: Analyzing 2021 5-star C Charles Bediako’s top 10 teams
By Ian Mumm
Tennesee Volunteers
Former Texas Longhorns coach Rick Barnes is no stranger to using strong and talented big men. During his tenure in Austin, Barnes recruited LaMarcus Aldridge, Tristan Thompson, Dexter Pittman and Myles Tuner to the program. His rosters for Tennessee have not utilized big men as frequently, but Barnes has proven to cater his strategy towards the talents on his roster.
Adding Bediako would certainly given the Vols their most talented center prospect, since Jackie Butler in 2004. Barnes is working hard on securing the services of 5-star power forwards Jabari Smith and Paolo Banchero, which would create a dynamic and dangerous frontcourt for Tennessee to dominate. However, the concern in this scenario is Bediako being limited on an offensive scale due to the bigger range and versatility of Smith and Banchero.
His defensive presence would be a welcome addition, as the Vols try to take the next step contending with the likes of Kentucky, Florida and LSU. Bediako’s biggest immediate contribution for Tennessee, assuming Banchero and/or Smith do not sign with the team as well, will be his control and efficiency rebounding the basketball.