No. 23 Washington Huskies
JJ Mandaquit – 4 star - # 49 nationally
Courtland Muldrew – 4 star - #110 nationally
Jasir Rencher – 4 star - # 92 nationally
Hannes Steinbach – 4 star – Germany
Danny Sprinkle is one of the best young coaches in the game, and he has won everywhere he has coached. Last season was a challenging year, mainly due to injuries and the lack of roster continuity. This year, recruiting picked up significantly, and Washington looks to improve with their impact freshmen.
Mandaquit was the starting point guard for the U18 Team USA gold medal-winning team. He is fantastic on the pick-and-roll and is confident running any offense. Muldrew is an effective scorer and facilitator. He is a combo guard who can run the offense while still maintaining his scoring ability. Rencher is a two-way guard who is a good shooter and has an extremely high ceiling with some development. Steinbach is likely a developmental piece.
No. 22 Michigan State Spartans
Cam Ward- 4 star- # 51 nationally
Jordan Scott- 4 star- # 53 nationally
Having a list of impact freshman classes without Michigan State on it would not do that program justice, not only for this season but every season. Coach Tom Izzo consistently attracts top recruits, and he gives all his players a chance to contribute each year. If you can play, Coach Izzo will find a spot for you to play.
Ward is a prototypical Spartan player. He is athletic and can get to the rim where he usually finishes. He is a tough defender and needs to work on his jump shot. He reminds me a lot of Tre Holloman. Scott is a good jump shooter and defender. His overall offensive game isn't great, but with his ability to rebound and defend, he will find himself on the floor for coach Izzo.