Virginia's 2023 Frontcourt Recruiting
The Virginia coaching staff spent much of the last month on the road visiting with recruits, primarily from the class of 2023. But now with practices underway and the season opener nearing, Fall recruiting activity has started to taper off.
Last week, I looked at the guard search. That’s been the main focus. But they’re also in the market for an addition in the frontcourt. These are players that have received the most attention so far.
Gregory Jackson 6'9 PF Ridge View (SC)
When the recruiting period opened last month. Tony Bennett’s first stop was to see Gregory Jackson. He’s the only frontcourt player in the class with a scholarship offer so far. An elite athlete with a rapidly improving offensive skillset, it’s easy to understand why he’s considered a five-star prospect. Competition is stiff as you’d expect. Duke and North Carolina are in full pursuit. Hometown South Carolina is a factor too.
Alassane Amadou 6'9 PF Springfield Chestnut Hill (PA)
Alassane Amadou raised his recruiting stock this summer while playing for DeAndre Hunter’s old AAU program, Philly Pride. Virginia coaches were frequently courtside to watch, including Bennett on several occasions. While still somewhat raw offensively, he’s the type of long bouncy forward UVA has had a lot of success with in the past. Maryland, VCU, and Marquette have all offered. Coach Vandross was up to see him last month.
Xavier Booker 6'11 C Cathedral (IN)
Big man Xavier Booker is out of Armaan Franklin’s old high school in Indianapolis. He’s a popular Big Ten recruit with offers from Indiana, Purdue, and Michigan State. A fluid athlete with some intriguing perimeter skills, he has all the tools to become the prototypical modern center. Coach Bennett made the trip to get a first hand look at him a couple weeks ago.
Dylan James 6'8 PF Winter Haven (FL)
It’s just a matter of time until Dylan James shoots up the recruiting charts. He hasn’t had as much exposure as most of the other players mentioned here. Alabama and Florida highlight his early offers. UVA took notice of him during the July live periods, and have kept contact. Coach Williford was in Florida to see him recently
Carter Lang 6'9 C St. Anne's-Belfield (VA)
Local product Carter Lang had a big summer. Virginia coaches were on hand for a lot of it too. A smooth skilled lefty, he’s crafty around the basket and can step out to knock down open jumpers. VA Tech is very involved, while Illinois has also offered. Expect UVA to continue to monitor his progress.
Austin Parks 6'10 C St. Mary's Memorial (OH)
Austin Parks is another popular Big Ten target with offers from Ohio State, Indiana, and Michigan State. He’s more of a traditional interior big man with a nice mix of skill and physicality. National recognition hasn't came yet, but he’s no secret to college coaches obviously. Virginia has been eyeing him for a while. Coach Getter was there in early September.
(Featured Image: Dan Fritz)