Duke basketball: The most lethal defensive lineup next season
By Matt Giles
Duke basketball’s lethal defensive lineup: Paolo Banchero at small forward
At No. 3 overall on the 247Sports 2021 Composite and with many recent observers wondering aloud why he’s not the No. 1 prospect, O’Dea (Wash.) five-star power forward Paolo Banchero looks to be a surefire one-and-done lottery pick after starring as the undisputed centerpiece of the incoming Duke basketball recruiting class.
But does Banchero have the necessary speed and agility to shine on the perimeter at times? You better believe it. And yes, that includes on the defensive end.
Just take a glance at the mixtape above.
Now, there have been reports of Banchero sprouting into a 6-foot-11, 250-pound beast in recent months. However, it doesn’t appear in his recent highlights as if the added inches and bulk have cost him a single step in the quickness department.
In other words, given Banchero’s high hoops IQ, sheer athleticism, and utter tenacity on both ends of the floor, he’d surely have no problem keeping up with lighter foes at this position. In fact, if and when he sees the opportunity next season to hold down the three-spot in a lineup such as this one, the Seattle product is likely to strike fear into the hearts of opposing small forwards.