Where UK recruits stand in new 247 Sports rankings for 2021 class

The 2021 recruiting class has already seen Kentucky commit Terrence Clarke make the move to 2020, and rumors of other players making the move continue to swirl.

But for now, 247 Sports released their updated rankings, and Jonathan Kuminga is still the talk of the class.

“Kuminga’s development over the course of the last year is notable. He’s improved his ball handling, shot mechanics and even his motor. A 6-foot-8 versatile forward, Kuminga has the ability to play inside and outside on offense, plus guard the three or the four on defense”

Kuminga is currently in the middle of the reclassifying talks, and Evan Daniels believes he would still be in the conversation for being the #1 player in the 2020 class.

“There’s been talk that Kuminga could reclassify to the 2020 class. If he did, Kuminga would certainly be in the conversation for No. 1 in that class as well.”

So, where does other Kentucky targets stand in the new rankings?

Patrick Baldwin Jr saw his rank fall one spot to #3, as Minnesota favorite Chet Holmgren made a jump from #4 to #2. Baldwin holds an offer from Kentucky.

“Baldwin impresses with his shot making ability at 6-foot-8. The Sussex (Wisc.) Hamilton standout has good shot mechanics, footwork and deep range on his jump shot. Baldwin averaged 16.1 points and 4.5 rebounds in 17 Nike EYBL Games with Phenom University”

Paolo Banchero is now the #4 overall player in the class, as he also fell due to the rise of Holmgren, who Kentucky is starting to recruit harder.

“Banchero’s summer was on par with any player in the 2021 class, averaging 22.7 points and 11.2 rebounds and 3.9 assists in 18 Nike EYBL games. A strong, tough and physical low post prospect, Banchero scores it well on the block and is an active and aggressive rebounder.”

Devin Askew is now #13 in the class and is continuing to gain a lot of hype. He recently said that he would be making his decision soon and it is believed to be down to Kentucky and Louisville. Askew is also a recruit rumored to potentially be a 2020 reclass candidate.

But the most recent offer Kentucky issued is to five-star combo guard Jaden Hardy, who is now ranked #7 overall. Coach Cal was smart to offer now, as Hardy has already established himself as one of the best scorers in this class, and he could easily finish in the top five of this class, especially if guys like Kuminga reclassify into 2020.

Kentucky has also shown interest in #5 recruit AJ Griffin and #6 recruit Jabari Smith, though neither has secured an offer yet.

Be sure to check out the full rankings here.

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