Arizona Class of 2016 Overview
The class of 2016 proved to be a very good class for the state of Arizona. While there are limited Division-I caliber guys, this group is DEEP with small college talent. Here’s a look at the strengths and weaknesses of this class.…
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Continue ReadingThe class of 2016 proved to be a very good class for the state of Arizona. While there are limited Division-I caliber guys, this group is DEEP with small college talent. Here’s a look at the strengths and weaknesses of this class.
-Strengths-
True Size
There are numerous forwards and centers who have a shot at being very good at the Division-I level. In the top 15 alone there are six players that stand 6’8″ or taller and all of them are legitimate D1 prospects.
Wing Versatility
There are some sizey wings in this class that can do a lot of things, especially on the defensive end. In the top five, both, Brock Gardner and Elijah Thomas possess the length and athleticism to defend three different positions. Going down the line, guys like JJ Rhymes, Jay Green, and Bryce Cheney have the ability to do the same.
D2/NAIA D1 Prospects
This class is plentiful when it comes to high level small college prospects. There are better than 35 prospects that could be great fits at the highest level behind NCAA Division-I.
-Weaknesses-
No Blue Chipper
While there are some very good players in this class, including high major bound Mitch Lightfoot, similar to the 2015 class there are no true “elite” recruits.
Lack of D1 True Point Guard
The only Division-I bound player that can be considered a “true” point guard is Michael Bibby. While there are others that can play the position, there are no others in the D1 stature that are considered “natural” at that position.