Today is the day for five star 2021 prospect Efton Reid, as he is set to announce his college commitment at noon ET.
The center prospect is one of the highest-rated recruits still on the board, and while he has not released a list of top schools, many believe that Pitt is strongly in the mix.
To get a clear breakdown of what Reid would bring to the Panthers program, PSN caught up with ESPN’s National Recruiting Director and high school basketball expert Paul Biancardi.
“[Reid is a] highly-skilled big who has the scoring and passing ability to play both in the low post and high post,” Biancardi told Pittsburgh Sports Now. “Ambidextrous inside and has a nice catch and shoot jumper.”
Reid stands at 6-foot-11, has a slim frame and weighs just 225 pounds, which would be on the smaller side for an ACC big. Biancardi thinks that adding on weight and strength will be crucial to Reid’s success at the next level.
“His body must continue to get tight and toned,” he said. “He has progressed in this area but still has a ways to go to be dominant at the college level. Stamina, speed and functional running along with strength. Most importantly developing the habit of living lower in the game and playing in his stance will be the difference in year one.”
While Pitt has now brought in three new players in Nate Santos, Dan Oladapo, and Jamarius Burton, the Panthers are still lacking a big man. With John Hugley’s future up in the air, Biancardi thinks Reid is in for a large role if he does choose Pitt.
“[He] would be the centerpiece of the program and a major part of the offense,” Biancardi added. “High-minutes player who can be an anchor inside, but he will need help.”
Reid would be the highest-rated Pitt basketball commit since Steven Adams, who spent just one season in the program before getting drafted in the NBA. Is there a chance that Reid does the same? Possibly, Biancardi says.
“With all five star prospects there is always that possibility,” Biancardi said. “If he unpacks his bags, improves his body, lives in the gym and takes coaching he will get there. When it happens is based on talent, work habits, maturity and efficient productivity. Winning will enhance his chances.”
He’s all LSU