Texas Basketball Recruiting: This is how the 2019 recruiting class could look

Keeping top notch prospects in-state will always be a top priority for some of the nation’s top basketball programs in terms of recruiting. And, when it involves a prospect like five-star center Will Baker, from Austin, it becomes even more important for Texas to bring him into the mix.

Baker has a versatile skill set that could make him both a matchup nightmare for the opposition, but also a noticeable talent for NBA scouts. He’d be a better shooter and more agile post-up big than most defenders would expect. And, his range could improve as time goes along.

Moreover, his defensive focus would need to have a greater emphasis in college, but his offensive skill set makes up for most of anything he’d do on the other end of the court. Baker also has the size and athleticism to at least become a vaunted defensive presence down low.

Next: Most important recruiting targets for 2019 class for Texas basketball

The favorites for Baker’s services right now sit between the North Carolina Tar Heels, UCLA Bruins, and Texas. It would be absolutely massive for the Horns to pry away Baker from the likes of two legendary basketball programs in UNC and UCLA. He’s the most important prospect that Texas needs to prioritize on the recruiting trail for the 2019 class, and there’s a good chance that he stays in Austin by the time National Signing Day comes around.