Pitt basketball’s need for size on their front court has been well documented over the last couple of years and remains a major priority for their Class of 2020.
One of the latest players that the Panthers are looking at is 2020 JUCO forward Valdir Manuel. Earlier today, Mike talked with him about his recent visit with Jeff Capel. Die-Hards members can check out the article here.
Here’s the story on Manuel. He was a non-qualifier out of St. Joseph’s High School but eventually committed to Chris Mullen and St. John’s. However, before he signed with St. John’s, Mullen was fired and when new head Mike Anderson was hired, Manuel’s scholarship was no longer committable.
Manuel then ended up at Harcum College and will have two years of eligibility remaining after he graduates next spring. Pitt has not offered yet but he does hold offers from Illinois, DePaul, Memphis, Minnesota, Rhode Island, St. Joe’s, Seton Hall and Temple and is rated by 247 Sports as the third best JUCO center in the nation.
A source told PSN that Manuel’s biggest strength is his ability to rebound and control the glass. Omoruyi remains Pitt’s top priority but if things don’t work out with him, Manuel is a name to watch.
