NCAA Basketball: 15 undervalued players in 2020 recruiting class
By Ian Mumm
#128 Jamal Mashburn Jr., PG – Minnesota
The Gophers have managed to load up on strong frontcourt talent this offseason via the transfer route. Landing coveted center Liam Robbins from Drake and versatile forward Brandon Johnson from Western Michigan, Minnesota looks to have built a solid starting 5. While top guard Marcus Carr has yet to decide on his path back to the team or towards the NBA Draft, Coach Pitino should not have to stress about the abilities of incoming guard Jamal Mashburn Jr.
Son of former NBA All-Star Jamal Mashburn, he has been around high levels of the game for many years. He has been learning the tricks and intricacies of proven vets, as his skills have matured, and it absolutely shows watching him on the floor. Mashburn Jr. does not have the same physical tools his father had, but he is a very high IQ floor general capable of leading this team in scoring should Carr not return.
He understands and utilizes change of pace dribbles very effectively through pick-and-roll situations and can keep defenses on their toes with a solid midrange game. He is likely to get extra opportunities in this particular area, given the talent of both Johnson and Robbins on next season’s team. Mashburn Jr. loves to attack the rim and can fight through contact.
However, he is equally as efficient as a perimeter shooter. This aspect of his game is needed once defenses tighten up on pick-and-rolls with Robbins. He has a very strong motor and will make a lot of effort plays to help Minnesota win. Having a mature and developed freshman guard at the helm will only push the Gophers towards more success in 2020.