When this list came out, it was predicted that both major program from Los Angeles (UCLA and USC) would be part of the group. However, the exclusion of the Trojans only helps the Bruins, who have to be considered as one of the clear favorites to win this recruiting battle.
Not only are they the hometown option for Andrews but the program looks to be on the right side of the momentum. After firing longtime head coach Steve Alford, Mick Cronin from Cincinnati was selected. However, there were lukewarm feelings to the move at best in the offseason, only exacerbated by the slow start to the past season.
Yet things got much better once Pac-12 play arrived and the team started to look like a real threat. And with everyone returning and boosted by the arrival of Kentucky transfer Johnny Juzang, the Bruins will be top-30 good for 2020-21. Making things even better, the program landed another local commitment from five-star class of 2021 wing Peyton Watson.
Far as the point guard situation goes, UCLA does have redshirt starter Tyger Campbell. He’s a solid passer and defender but needs to improve on his consistency on offense. They have a four-star commit in Will McClendon in the 2021 class, who Andrews would have to compete with in the future.
Yet neither one seem to be much better than Dylan Andrews on paper, giving the top-30 real hope of early playing time and a role as a freshman. That’s what happened to Jaime Jaquez Jr., who went from riding the bench early on to playing a huge role in the Bruins climb up the Pac-12 standings. Andrews could very well have the same kind of effect if he picks them as well.