NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Analyzing top-40 forward AJ Casey top 8 teams

DePaul Blue Demons

Along with Illinois, DePaul is the “hometown” option for Casey if he wants to stay home. Landing him would be a massive pickup for new head coach Tony Stubblefield, who needs to land local prospects to be viable in the Big East.

While the program is completely rebuilding once again, they have a clear-cut starting role for Casey as a freshman. The only power forward on the roster for the Blue Demons is 5th-year transfer Brandon Johnson, who’ll be gone after next season. If he wants to go somewhere where playing time will be easily available, DePaul would be No. 1 out of the eight. But unless several other key pieces join him, the odds of winning will be low.

Florida Gators

Although there have been past concerns about head coach Mike White’s offensive system, one position that has to succeed under him has been the four-spot when it comes to forwards that can face the basket. Casey is one of the best in the 2022 class, which makes this a really good fit on paper.

The status of Keyontae Johnson remains somewhat unclear but even if he plays, could very well go pro after next season. Boston College transfer CJ Felder is more of a glue guy than a focal point of the offense and Colin Castleton likely will be gone after next season as well. If Casey is willing to go down South, Florida sets up as a viable option with plenty to offer.