NCAA Basketball: Predicting 2021 top-40 G Zaon Collins commitment
By Ian Mumm
UNLV Runnin’ Rebels
TJ Otzelberger’s first season coaching the UNLV program showed positive signs. The Runnin’ Rebels improved on both sides of the floor and almost knocked off #1 San Diego State at home. Otzelberger will again have his work cut out for him after double-digit scorer Donnie Tillman transferred and Elijah Mitrou-Long is on the mend from a knee injury. Only guards Amauri Hardy and Bryce Hamilton added more than eight points per game.
With potentially Hamilton and transfer David Jenkins Jr. leaving after next season, the backcourt could be unproven and thin in 2021. The addition of Collins would be a huge addition to the program’s stability and development moving forward. His ability to get into the middle of the defense will create quality scoring opportunities for his teammates and allow his teammates to ease into a rhythm.
His prowess on the other end of the floor will help to maintain an already efficient defensive system for Otzelberger. The Runnin’ Rebels were a sound team contesting shots and severely limited second-chance shots for their opponents last season. However, Collins on-ball peskiness will further elevate the danger of playing UNLV and create ways for this team to get easy points.
It’s no surprise the hometown team made the final cut of teams. Despite the proximity to and love for the program from his family, Collins simply won’t have a ton of support on the floor to optimally utilize his talents. He will look elsewhere.