clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Pac-12 Basketball Recruiting: Top 5 2013 Big Men

Breaking down the top big men from the class of 2013 signed by Pac-12 schools.

Aaron Gordon at this year's McDonald's All-American Game
Aaron Gordon at this year's McDonald's All-American Game
USA TODAY Sports

This post completes our series on the top 2013 recruits entering the Pac-12 this fall. Here our links to our previous posts on point guards and wings.

5. Nikola Jovancovic, 6'10, 215lbs--Serbia, Europe (Arlington Country Day School)--USC TROJANS

Expert's take:

Jovanovic is a multi-skilled big man with a long frame. He can convert buckets inside-and-out due to his skill level and feel for the game. (Via: ESPN)

Breakdown:

Jovancovic fits the stereotype of European big men – he can stretch defenses through his deep shot-making ability. He's not polished, but looks like a mainstay in the Pac-12. Does he fit new USC Head Coach's Andy Enfield's system? This has yet to be determined.


4. Schuyler Rimmer, 6'9, 233lbs--Orlando, Florida (Boone HS)--STANFORD CARDINAL

Expert's take:

Schuyler is a solid post prospect who can score facing the basket to 15 feet but gets most of his buckets on put backs and drop passes. He's a good rebounder with a solid body and toughness. (Via: ESPN)

Breakdown:

From scouting reports, Rimmer is described as a hard-nosed player on both ends of the court. Near the end of his last season at Boone, Rimmer was averaging more than 15 points and rebounds per game. Rimmer will likely redshirt this season with the sheer amount of depth at Stanford next year.


3. Kameron Rooks, 7'0, 280lbs--San Marcos, Calif. (Mission Hills HS)--CALIFORNIA GOLDEN BEARS


Expert's take:

Rooks has a huge frame and very long arms. He has very soft hands and his basketball IQ is quite high. He has a solid drop-step move where he gets his defenders on his back and utilizes his length and great hands to convert around the basket. (Via: ESPN)

Breakdown:

Rooks' size will open eyes and get him playing time, but he still has a long way until he can reach his full potential. He needs to get in proper shape and improve his mobility to be effective at the college level. His best strength is his defensive presence; he'll be a guaranteed big body for Cal Head Coach Mike Montgomery's defense.

2. Jordan Bell, 6'8, 215lbs--Long Beach, Calif. (Long Beach Poly HS)--OREGON DUCKS


Expert's take:

Bell is an extremely quick leaper with a great upside. His sinewy frame with long arms should fill out nicely in the coming seasons and he isn't close to a finished product. Bell continues to impress with his energy and awe-inspiring shot blocking ability. (Via: ESPN)

Breakdown:

Jordan Bell is a treat to watch. Not only is he a superb shot-blocker, he relishes and enjoys having this ability. His long wingspan and athleticism make him a candidate for the All-Pac 12 Defensive team in his first year at Oregon. On offense, he is comfortable and explosive in transition.

1. Aaron Gordon, 6'8, 210lbs--San Jose, Calif. (Archbishop Mitty)--ARIZONA WILDCATS

Read about the top Pac-12 point guard recruits from the class of 2013. Nigel Williams-Goss, Sam Singer and Ikenna Iroegbu headline the list.

Expert's take:

When it comes to effort and bounce there are few prospects that can compete with Gordon. The ultra-bouncy 4/3 has an evolving offensive game, great hands, and a contagious competitive spirit. He is relentless around the paint area getting numerous tip-ins and dunks. (Via: ESPN)

Breakdown:

Aaron Gordon is a beast. The sure to be one-and-done player turns Arizona into an instant national championship contender. His athleticism is off-the-charts and he is absolutely relentless on both ends of the courts. Finding players with his talent is rare, but finding a player with a motor is even more difficult – have fun watching Gordon this year, he's special.