Analyzing top 6 uncommitted players in 2021 NCAA Basketball recruiting class
F Arthur Kaluma – No. 45 overall prospect
Teams involved: Arizona, Creighton, and Syracuse
The former UNLV commit becomes one of the top frontcourt players available. And unlike Baldwin Jr., he’s projected to stick around in NCAA Basketball for a few years. He’s a 6’8 power forward with great athleticism and has great upside as an all-around player. Kaluma is a really good defender with a growing offensive game and while still a project, is one that can become an all-conference performer.
Last time out, Syracuse was viewed as a finalist along with the Rebels. This time around, the Orange really needs a power forward after losing both Alan Griffin and Quincy Guerrier this offseason, along with starting center Marek Doležaj. While top-50 forward Benny Williams is coming in, Kaluma has the chance to at least get major minutes, if not start.
On the other hand, Kaluma could always stay close to home with new head coach Tommy Lloyd. The team has little depth outside of Ąžuolas Tubelis and Gonzaga transfer Oumar Ballo in the frontcourt and there’s a real chance that Kaluma would start here in the following season. And while Syracuse reserves don’t get much playing time, the Wildcats bench could be important as the starters aren’t good enough to play 35+ mpg.
One darkhorse contender here is the Bluejays, who lost a ton of talent this offseason, especially in the frontcourt. They did land former D-II star Ryan Hawkins and does bring back center Ryan Kalkbrenner. This would be a spot where Kaluma has plenty of playing time as a freshman and can develop without much pressure. The seat for Coach McDermott seems to have cooled after the incident last season but the program will be rebuilding a bit.
This is another player without a list since moving on from UNLV but these three programs have been named the most in the past few days. Playing close to home for Arizona is appealing but the Bluejays offer the most playing time, both now and in the future.