NCAA Basketball: 10 biggest recruiting battles to watch for 2024 class

Kokomo Wildkats center Flory Bidunga (40) rushes up the court on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Ben Davis Giants lead at the half against the Kokomo Wildkats, 28-17, during the IHSAA Class 4A state finals championship.High School Basketball Ini Hs Basketball Class 3a State Final Northwood Panthers At Guerin Catholic Golden Eagles /

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NCAA Basketball Maryland Terrapins head coach Kevin Willard Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Derik Queen – No. 6 overall prospect

Recruiting battle: Maryland vs Georgetown vs Kansas vs Indiana

In the prized recruiting grounds that are known as the “DMV”, Queen is viewed as the top overall prospect in the 2024 class there. From Baltimore, Maryland, all of the local programs have been after him hard. Listed at 6’9 and over 220 pounds, Queen is an elite offensive threat, capable of scoring inside and out.

A case could be made that I shouldn’t even have Queen listed among recruitments to watch since it could already be over. Maryland, which has been after the big man for a long time, is viewed as a heavy favorite to land the top-10 overall prospect.

Yet I wouldn’t count out the pair of blue bloods that have also entered the fray. Queen has taken a visit to Kansas and if star transfer Hunter Dickinson is only around for one year, the five-star big man could simply take over for the following year.

Other programs that could also get into the mix are Indiana, Houston, and LSU, as well as another local program in Georgetown. If staying home is a priority for Queen, the Hoyas could be the only other meaningful alternative in this recruitment.

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