Recruiting Classes
I always read these times of year how the BCS ranking computer is used to crank out some type of recruiting class ranking, this would be a great tool….if the computer 1) Knew what each team needed and 2) Had accurate evaluations on the players in reality we only know #1 so lets look at who did the best jobs of signing players to address their needs and put them in contention to move up or stay atop of their league or the world of college basketball.
1. Stanford - The best class in the country not because of the BCS computer rankings but the point guard spot and athletic guards have always been a struggle for the Cardinals. This year they pick up two guards that really can help them along and possibly contend for the national championship. Jasmine Camp a 5-8 guard from Georgia and Amber Orrange 5-8 guard out of Texas both will significantly help Stanford in their title quest. Other Signees: Bonnie Sammuelson 6-2 F; Erica Payne 6-2 F; Taylor Greenfield 5-8 G
2. Duke - Like Stanford has struggled at the point, the reason Duke hasn’t been in the final four or won a national championship of late is the center position. Krystal Thomas was regarded as a top 10 player out of high school but just hasn’t blossomed into the college All American some projected her to be. Enter Elizabeth Williams whether you have her 1 or 2 in the country you’d hope that would be a big improvement real quick for Duke. Amber Henson 6-2 F Tampa, Fl struggled some this summer and was hurt but similar to Burdick she’s a face up 4 player who’s very skilled and could be very good. Duke also has Kalia Johnson 5-8 Guard who’s a good athletic defender and 6-2 wing player Whitney Knight of North Carolina.
3. Tennessee - The signing of Ariel Massengale to me is a sign of trouble for this season in Knoxville at the point guard spot because it seemed like if Lauren Avant or Meighan Simmons were operable that they would just hold on to them until 2012 Andraya Carter came in and then try to snag an additional guard with them in 2012. That isn’t the case and the Vols have probably ruled themselves out of another top 10 guard in the 2012 class because there just isn’t enough playing time to go around. The addition of Burdick is a good one a skilled front court player who is good in the half court for sure will be a different dimension then just having 6-4 kids. Harrison I think will serve as a role player for the Lady Vols she’ll really have to kick it up a few notches to be remembered when it is all over.
4. Uconn - Kaleena Lewis is a good pick up to any team and so is Kiah Stokes, seems like Uconn is waiting in the bushes for the 2012 class players. Lewis will have to pick up some scoring for Maya Moore who graduates and Stokes gives Uconn an athletic post presence and depth in the front court. Both players address needs but the real judgment of the Huskies future will be in the next two recruiting classes.
5. California - Cal picks up Erika Johnson, Brittany Boyd and Reshaunda Grey. While Johnson and Grey are similar to what Cal already has and only hopes to upgrade what they already have. The impact player for the team is Boyd who will add depth at guard which is the position which they were most hopeful to improve on to get the team farther along.
6. Kentucky
7. UCLA
8.Texas A&M
9. LSU
10. Georgia Tech
I wanted to Know if you have seen Katherine Zander Play (signed by OU) and how well you think she will do in the Big 12/10 thanks
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