Big Ten Basketball: Biggest needs for each team’s 2021 recruiting classes

Michigan Wolverines

Biggest needs: Center

One of the best-recruiting jobs this offseason has been what Juwan Howard and Michigan Basketball has done, landing four prospects already; three of them four-star recruits on the perimeter (Kobe Bufkin, Isaiah Barnes, and Frankie Collins), as well as three-star stretch forward Will Tschetter.

With four positions already covered, landing a center in the class would be the perfect ending to a potential top-10 overall class. He would either be the primary backup for Hunter Dickinson or possibly replace him if the freshman leaves early. Five-star center recruit Efton Reid is a major target, but don’t be surprised if the Wolverines try to land another wing to replace both Isaiah Livers and Franz Wagner, who many consider is likely going pro after his sophomore campaign.

Michigan State Spartans

Biggest needs: Center and wing

The Spartans already have quality commits in the 2021 class, including guards Pierre Brooks II and Jaden Akins, as well as five-star shooting guard Max Christie. What makes things really interesting are the rumors that No. 1 overall class of 2022 forward Emoni Bates could reclassify to join next year’s team, as well as top-30 class of 2022 center commit Enoch Boakye.

If that happens and both Rocket Watts and Joey Hauser each returns, then not only would Michigan State be the clear No. 1 preseason team for 2021-22, then there isn’t any need to add more prospects. Otherwise, finding another big man and wing (in case Gabe Brown goes pro) would make the most sense.