Duke Basketball: Why Mohamed Bamba Will Commit to the Blue Devils
By Chris Brown
The nation’s top center Mohamed Bamba is still uncommitted to a college basketball program. Here are three reasons why he’ll choose Duke.
Duke Basketball is in an interesting position where several of their top talented recruiting targets have yet to make their decisions. One of these is Mohamed Bamba, a talented center out of Pennsylvania.
Mohamed Bamba is ranked as the top center and second overall prospect in the 2017 recruiting class. The Blue Devils are a finalist to land the big man along with Kentucky and Texas, but here are three reasons why he should join Duke next season. He’s an “elite prospect” with a high ceiling, measuring 6-11 with a 7-8 wingspan and a huge 9-5 standing reach. Here are three reasons why Bamba should commit to Duke next season:
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1. Current State of Duke’s Roster
The Blue Devils can potentially lose nine players from this year’s team, including several big men. At the moment, the only power forwards/centers on Duke’s roster are Marques Bolden, Javin Delaurier, Antonio Vrankovic, and incoming freshman Wendell Carter. Bamba will be able to come in and contribute right away, adding depth to the Blue Devils’ frontcourt.
2. He Can Play to His Strengths
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One of the main arguments against Bamba joining Duke is Marques Bolden returning for his sophomore season. However, Bolden and Bamba can co-exist and even benefit each other on the court. Mohamed Bamba’s strengths are his athleticism, defense, and rebounding abilities while he is limited in his offensive ability in the paint. Meanwhile, Marques Bolden struggles defensively but is more of a back-to-the-basket scorer who can dominate offensively in the paint. While it’s probably a longshot Coach K will play both at the same time, they could play well off each other based on their styles of play.
3. Playing for Coach K
Duke also provides Mohamed Bamba to play with one of the greatest coaches of all time. Mike Krzyzewski is currently the winningest coach in college basketball, who will be able to help maximize Bamba’s talent. In an interview, the 6-11 center described Duke saying “you’re getting the University, you’re getting the program, and you’re getting Coach K. Coach K has his own global brand, which is pretty outstanding”.
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The Blue Devils are still involved with Bamba as well as undecided commits Trevon Duval and Kevin Knox. Be sure to stay tuned for analysis and reaction of Mohamed Bamba’s decision and more updates for Duke Basketball recruiting.