NCAA Basketball: Arizona, Dayton in mix for top-50 forward DaRon Holmes

Arizona Wildcats

Although he’s playing his senior season in Florida, Holmes is originally from Goodyear, Arizona, and played for Millenium High School. That advantage could ultimately give the Wildcats an edge in this recruitment, although based on who else made the cut, the location may not matter too much.

A couple of weeks ago, Arizona was viewed as the favorite to land top-60 power forward Ben Gregg. But once local powerhouse program Gonzaga got into the picture, they were able to steal him. It could work out in the Wildcats favor in the end, still having a clear need for frontcourt help. If he can stretch the floor, Holmes would be an ideal forward in Coach Sean Miller’s system and after Ira Lee departs, could find some real immediate time.

Cal Bears

Credit to second-year head coach Mark Fox for being aggressive on the recruiting trail for the rebuilding Bears. They’re in the mix for a number of top-100 recruits right now and has the allure of not only the University’s education standards but also plenty of playing time for quality freshmen that aren’t wings.

If we’re comparing Cal to Arizona, playing time would have to be the major selling point for the Bears to win out. Because if playing in the postseason mattered, the Wildcats would be the clear winner. Cal does need to land a top target to help convince others to come and boost the basketball program. I’m just not sure if Holmes will be the first to make the move.