NCAA Basketball: 15 undervalued players in 2020 recruiting class

#229 Mike Saunders, PG – Cincinnati

Looking to replace a reliable scoring option like Jarron Cumberland is not an easy thing to do for many programs in college basketball. For the Bearcats, landing Michigan transfer David DeJulius was a step in the right direction towards doing so. However, the team is not sure if he will receive approval for immediate eligibility this season. If the situation arrives that he is not allowed to play in 2020, Coach Brannen can look towards his top recruit Mike Saunders for offensive production.

As returning guard Mike Adams-Woods is the only semi-productive guard returning to the program next season, Saunders has a good chance to make an immediate impact on the team. He is a gritty guard that loves to get into the middle of the defense and attack the rim. He plays well through contact and often looks to initiate it.

While the current strength of next season’s team resides in the frontcourt, Saunders has a chance to thrive in pick-and-roll situations with centers Chris Vogt and Colgate transfer Rapolas Ivanauskas. He can use quick bursts to slip by defending bigs out of position and find passing lanes to shooters.

After defenses begin to adjust and play underneath screens, Saunders will be able to utilize his 39% 3-point conversion rate. Fortunately for him, his relentless motor will also push him to the free throw line throughout games to further boost his production as a potent weapon for Cincinnati.