Duke basketball: Predicting the next recruit to commit to Blue Devils
By Matt Giles
When will Duke basketball target Charles Bediako make up his mind?
THE FINALISTS: Charles Bediako plans to pick from five favorites in Alabama, Duke, Michigan, Ohio State, and Texas. The 6-foot-11, 225-pound improving big man had 10 schools on his list until early July when he cut Baylor, Maryland, Memphis, Southern Cal, and Tennessee.
SCOUTING REPORT (from Jerry Meyer of 247Sports): “Has a big wingspan. Needs to gain mass and strength and has a frame to do so. Limited athlete and not a leaper. Has good hands. Often has to take an extra step or pivot to gather himself. Has nice touch on his jump hook. Effective around the rim but needs to expand skill set. Positional defender and rebounder.”
INSIDER TAKE (from Eric Bossi of 247Sports): “Bediako hasn’t yet announced a commitment date, but word behind the scenes has been that he should decide by the end of the early signing period. An early decision isn’t a lock, but it also shouldn’t go too much beyond the end of the period (Nov. 18th) if he doesn’t sign early. Alabama looks to be in really good shape for the imposing post presence from Canada.”
PREDICTION: Charles Bediako will announce his decision at some point within the next three weeks, and he’ll do as Bossi and the entire 247Sports Crystal Ball expect by delighting the red-hot recruiting staff of Alabama head coach Nate Oats.