Staff Report
Recruiting has been called the second season in college basketball and if that is true, then the summer, when all recruits arrive on campus to begin workouts, must be the second postseason.
For Murray State, a solid recruiting class made up of multiple three-star recruits according to numerous scouting services means that expectations are high to see just how good the second season was to head coach Matt McMahon and company.
If early indications are to be believed, there are some surprises in store for Racer fans among the newcomers.
No Racer recruit had the buzz that accompanied Ja Morant onto campus, and while buzz is good, there is a steep learning curve to playing Division 1 basketball. For Morant, that curve lasted a couple days. Already beginning to adjust his game for the increase in size and speed of D1, reports of his passing ability and uncanny court vision are already beginning to trickle out. One observer compared him to Cameron Payne and said he was so good in the pickup games it just wasn't fair. This follows a high school career of highlights that dropped jaws and made him a highly sought after point guard recruit. When added to returning All OVC 1st teamer Jonathan Stark and Towson Transfer Byron Hawkins, and the ballhandling duties seem to be in good hands.
Another nationally recognized recruit looking to shore up the Racers this season is guard Tevin Brown. Brown’s bankable skillset in high school was his ability to score, and early indications are that he is as advertised on the offensive side. Observers say he has been almost automatic from 3-point range in pickup games.
One recruit who didn’t come with a ton of national buzz is forward Anthony Smith. The 6’7” post player has opened eyes with his blue-collar work ethic and desire to work tirelessly on defense and on the glass. That mentality will be especially welcome among Racer fans who love to see guys willing to do the “dirty work.” What many Racer followers might not have expected is his strong offensive skillset. Quick and decisive, Smith is looking to be somewhat better than expected scorer in the post.
All told, the roster seems to be as deep and skilled as the Racers have seen in a few years as the Racers look to return to winning ways and a berth into the NCAA tournament.