NCAA Basketball: Predicting 2021 top-40 G Zaon Collins commitment
By Ian Mumm
Arizona State Sun Devils
The Sun Devils have made quite the splash this summer as well. One of the most college-ready guards, and players discussed in successful transitions to the NBA, announced a surprise commitment to the program. Josh Christopher’s pledge to the program has severely elevated the team’s on-court product ahead of the 2020 season. However, the hype isn’t without consideration for the coaching job Bobby Hurley has managed as the Sun Devils coach.
After taking over the program in 2015, Hurley has built the program up and finished in the Pac-12’s top-3 in consecutive seasons. He looks to carry the momentum on the court this season, as well as towards the 2021 recruiting class. Arizona State has positioned itself well to land Collins as much as any other team on the list.
In fact, Collins noted recently the Sun Devils were the only Zoom call he made with a program since the start of quarantine. Throughout his recruiting process, Collins has noted his love for the Sun Devil program and their style on the floor. Despite having Jaelen House and transfers Luther Muhammad and Holland Woods projected for the 2021 roster, Collins has plenty of opportunity to see immediate playing time.
He enters the team as likely the top playmaker and defensive guard on the team and attacks defenses. The Sun Devils also feature mobile forwards that can create havoc on defense and run the floor on offense. Even if forced to sit on the bench, Collins said in an interview with Mason Kern of 247sports.com “It gives me confidence to go in and try to earn a starting spot because I know they’ve got some guards there that will make me very good. Even if I come off the bench, I’m still going to give them my all, all my energy.”
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Collins is readily aware of Hurley’s accomplishments as a former Duke player and has been eating up every conversation they have been having. The bond Collins has formed with Coach Hurley, as both a coach and former player, have sealed the deal. He has the chance to end up as a top-5 signee ever with the program and follow in Vegas Elite Nike EYBL teammate Josh Christopher’s steps.
Prediction: Collins commits to Arizona State