NCAA Basketball: Predicting best player from top 2021 recruiting classes
By Ian Mumm
3. Gonzaga Bulldogs
Recruiting Class: Chet Holmgren, Hunter Sallis, Nolan Hickman, and Kaden Perry
The Bulldogs are coming off their second trip to the National Final in five seasons, and while the results didn’t fall in their favor again there’s no drop-off in the Gonzaga brand in sight. Following this year’s NBA Draft, the Zags have now positioned six players for lottery selections in the last eight seasons with Jalen Suggs and Corey Kispert adding to that count most recently. Mark Few has done a tremendous job attracting and developing top talent to the program and this year’s recruiting class continues to add to that narrative.
With the 2nd-highest average recruit ranking this cycle, the Zags are bringing in powerful pieces with center Kaden Perry, dynamic guards Nolan Hickman and Hunter Sallis, and the #1 overall recruit Chet Holmgren. The incoming reinforcements from this group, along with Iowa State transfer Rasir Bolton and the expected development of the program’s current players, essentially offset the losses of Kispert, Suggs, and Ayayi at the top end of the rotation.
Despite the large void in the backcourt and on the wings left this offseason, the path for the incoming freshman is not necessarily easier here. The continued presence of Nembhard, Dominick Harris, and recent transfer Bolton create a potential minute restriction for Sallis and Hickman. That’s not to say either of these players will be significantly handicapped in the rotation, but more of an endorsement for the overall contributions and production of a certain Chet Holmgren.
The 7-footer follows in the footsteps of his fellow Minnehaha teammates Jalen Suggs to Spokane. As distributed in every setting he’s taken to the court, Holmgren has been awe-inspiring. A fluid ball-handler with size, range, and a soft-shooting touch, he’s easily able to create production for himself and his team without forcing the issue. Along with his defensive and shot-blocking instincts, Holmgren has multiple avenues to lead his freshman teammates in any category.
Prediction: Chet Holmgren