NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Ranking No. 1 prospect Jalen Duren’s final 5 options

Jalen Duren overtook Emoni Bates as the No. 1 player in the 2022 NCAA Basketball class at the end of June, following a continued strong play during both the prep and grassroots season. The Montverde Academy center is down to Kentucky, Miami, Memphis, and the G-League or NBL routes while removing Alabama, Auburn, Michigan, Penn State, UCLA, and Villanova from his initial list of 11 released two months ago.

Since Duren’s initial list was released, it’s come to light he’s contemplated a potential reclassification into the class of 2021. If he does decide to make the move into the 2021 class, it would send shockwaves through the college basketball landscape. While the addition for each of the college programs would be welcomed with open arms, the move could induce a big transfer late in the offseason at one or more of his options.

His production for both Team Final on the grassroots circuit and Montverde Academy have provided plenty of affirmation that Duren is ready for college immediately. He is not only ready from a production standpoint on both ends of the floor, but he is a physical monster capable of battling with players in both the professional and collegiate landscapes.

The recent NIL rulings freeing athletes to capitalize on their name, image, and likeness will not have an impact on Duren’s readiness to turn pro or pursue the college route, but rather could change where he chooses to play and find the best situation for his career.

Duren has taken official visits to each of his remaining college choices and seems to be devoting maximum diligence towards all options prior to making a final decision. Considering all scenarios, I rank Duren’s remaining options and where he projects to be the best fit.