ESPN National Director of Recruiting Paul Biancardi joins Adam Finkelstein to discuss Duke’s big snag of top recruit Zion Williamson and how three of the top players in the class can all work together. Plus, Paul breaks down North Carolina’s impressive recruiting class that features Nas Little and Coby White.
On Zion Williamson’s Duke commitment:
“I really believed that South Carolina had a chance because of the proximity, they’ve had some great players in the state in football and basketball attend South Carolina,” said Biancardi. “I was surprised. Now, I’m not shocked because anytime Coach K gets a recruit I don’t think any of us can be shocked.”
What makes R.J. Barrett the number one prospect on ESPN’s 100?
“R.J. Barrett’s number one because he has enormous talent, he has great performances on the biggest stage. We all know what he did at USA Basketball when he dropped 38 on the United States and Cam Reddish and those guys were playing defense on him. He helped Canada win their first ever gold medal. That’s all well documented, but he hasn’t stopped yet. He continues to evolve and grow.”
Biancardi also offers his insight on some of the elite talent that wasn’t snagged by Coach K.
Quentin Grimes: ESPN 100 #8 and future Jayhawk
“This guy just scores the ball real easy. I love his size in the backcourt. You’re looking at a guy that has size, he’s a combo guard, he likes the open floor game…He’s got it all in my mind.”
Nassar Little: ESPN 100 #10 and UNC Commit
“When I watched him at a young age he impressed me as a guy who played harder than everyone else.”
Coby White: ESPN 100 #20 and UNC Commit
“I love Coby White’s game because as a guard he’s under control. White reads the game. He’s an excellent shooter from deep and from midrange and he knows when to shoot it. He can also make the assist. In pick and roll I like his reads, his decision making and his ability to make shots.”
