Nation's Top Basketball Recruits

Author:
SI Staff
Publish date:
Nov 19, 2009

Nation's Top Basketball Recruits

Harrison Barnes, Guard

Master Harrison -- as he is known to family -- took the social networking craze one step further than any recruit before him when he skyped North Carolina coach Roy Williams last Thursday. In Barnes, the Tar Heels are getting a brainy board crasher who will fit in smoothly with the running system.

Joe Jackson, Point Guard

The Prince of Memphis will stay in town and spearhead what many consider to be the nation's top class. When Tigers coach Josh Pastner took the head job, he had already been trailing Jackson. When he beat Kentucky coach John Calipari to the punch, Pastner proved that the student was no longer the teacher. If Pastner can get Jackson and fellow signee Will Barton on the same page, the Tigers may be back among the nation's elite.

Josh Smith, Forward

He's another reason for Ben Howland to smile. After years of big-time hauls, the Bruins finally have a house in the 6-foot-10, 270-pound banger.

Tristan Thompson, Forward

A Toronto native, the 6-foot-9, 215-pound future Texas Longhorn brings high expectations as one of the best prospects from north of the border. This will be his first full year at Findlay.

Tobias Harris, Forward

Once dismissed as too skinny, the 6-foot-8 Long Island native increased his strength and has an impressive work ethic.

Kendall Marshall, Point Guard

Talent evaluator Tom Konchalski says the UNC signee "makes decisions with Solomonic certainty." Last July, he stood out at the NBA Players Association Camp in Charlottesville, Va.

Tyler Lamb, Guard

Just like his prep team, Lamb offers efficiency on the perimeter and by cutting to the cup.

Cory Joseph, Point Guard

A consummate playmaker, Joseph will bring a leader's mentality wherever he lands. His brother, Devoe, is a forward at Minnesota, but Villanova may have a good shot at the younger Joseph.

Perry Jones, Forward

Baylor is getting a 6-foot-11, 220-pound inside force from a high school program that has established itself atop the Texas polls.

Josh Selby, Guard

The most explosive scorer in the country originally gave a commitment to Tennessee, but now will not sign until the spring. His frenetic pace fits well with John Calipari's dribble-drive-motion offense, but he is also entertaining an offer from Indiana, among others.