MBB Recruiting: 2016 5* F TJ Leaf decommits from Arizona; Michigan reaching out
Per multiple reports, 2016 5* forward TJ Leaf decommitted from Arizona last night. The 6'9" big man had significant interest in Michigan and was offered by Beilein. He also has family ties to Indiana and was strongly considering the Hoosiers before eventually picking the Wildcats.
Apparently Michigan made contact last night, but 247's Crystal Ball has seen a run on UCLA which makes sense given his apparent (if unstated) desire to stay on the West Coast.
August 7th, 2015 at 10:50 AM ^
Everybody jokes about starz and everything but it seems like getting them helps if you look at how successful Kentucky and Duke are. When we went to the NCG, we had a few 5 stars starting for us. If you add Jaylen Brown to our frontline, that could change its outlook instantly.
August 7th, 2015 at 10:48 AM ^
If we land Leaf (please!) I could see it. I get that Beilein has a system, but I love the flexibility that multiple 3/4 hybrid players would provide. Also, would be good preparation for pro ball since lots of teams are experimenting with positionless lineups (even if they aren't the regular starting 5).
August 7th, 2015 at 10:52 AM ^
a point guard for 2016, but we won't be dead without a commitment in that class. Walton will be back and MAAR can play that position in spurts even though it is less than optimal. We certainly need one in the 2017 class who is ready to play immediately if we don't get one in 2016. Before you that is far fetched, consider than Morris, Burke, and Walton all played significant minutes in their freshman year, with Burke and Walton playing at a high level immediately.
August 7th, 2015 at 12:47 PM ^
injury or one of the most epic seasons in the history of college basketball he will be back. He has not performed at a level where early entry would even be a possibility and he not in any mock drafts. I guess if goes all Jay Williams this year he could sneak into the second round somewhere but is that enough to warrant leaving? I don't see any circumstance where he is not a 4 year player.
August 7th, 2015 at 11:25 AM ^
Beilein was willing to adapt to personnel last year with the 1-3-1; I think it would be cool to see some switch-y man defense in 2016 if we get a seriously big athlete like Leaf who can contribute right away.
Of course getting Winston+Bridges (please oh please!!) would be preferred if we are looking ahead to 2017 (assuming Winston doesn't break out as a freshman-which would be just fine).
August 7th, 2015 at 11:22 AM ^
Why would anyone want to play for Steve Alford? Arizona should have been a great spot for him.
Leaf played for Compton Magic and Head Coach Etop Ud-Ema is going to try his darndest to keep him in Adidas....UCLA.