One Big Man Away?

Don't look now but the men's basketball team is a big man away from actually being a top squad nationally. I'm thinking that if Beilein can somehow pull in one more additional recruit in the 2011 class this team is could very well explode next year. As things stand we are highly competitive. But think of what we have coming in: Burke (a PG and Ohio player of the year candidate with ice water in his veins) and Brundidge (a tough SG who gets his points driving in the paint and at the FT line). If we can somehow bring in an additional low post scoring threat - LOOK OUT!  We've been playing Zach Novak at PF on a regular basis. Morgan has had a phenomenal season in my opinion but we could use another big body if we are going to once again challenge the premier squads accross the nation. If you look at OSU, Duke, KU, UK, UNC et.al. one of the common denominators is size. We don't have to out rebound those squads to win but we have to be able to hold our own and prevent them from busting us up inside. So I guess my formula for major NCAA success  includes size (something I feel we've lacked since the Tractor Traylor squads). I'm not sure a guy like Nance J.r. is the answer though. What we need is a bruiser who can ocasionally score.

In reading up about Max Bielfeldt I came accross the following evaluation. Sounds to me like this kid could be exactly what we need. Unfortunately we may have already lost out  since Illinois is his childhood favorite and just offerd a scholarship...

_{Strengths:
This strong high energy power forward never takes a possession off. Bielfeldt runs the floor on a consistent basis and simply out works opposing post for easy baskets. In the low post he scores with good touch and crafty moves. Bielfeldt is a below the rim finisher that can also face and knock down mid range and open three with needed time and space. Bielfeldt is a good passer and active rebounder on both ends. He could be affective in both pick and pop or role situations. Bielfeldt won't wow you with athletic ability but will with his consistent production.}

_{Weaknesses:
Bielfeldt must work on attempting to improve his explosiveness he is an average athlete at best. And although his is strong he must continue to add strength in order to continue to hold his own in the low post.}

_{Bottom Line:
Bielfeldt is a skilled power forward that rebounds on both ends and plays with great energy and urgency on every possession. His is limited athletically but is consistently productive because of his all business approach on the floor where he simply out works opponents with passion for the game.}