Wendell Barnhouse is a nationally-known and respected columnist who has spent over 20 years covering collegiate athletics. He has reported from 24 Final Fours and more than three dozen bowl games and has written about the Big 12 and its schools since the conference's beginning. Barnhouse will be updating the Big 12 Insider on happenings and behind-the-scenes information about the conference.
Football season is just over a month away, but as the Big12's announcement of its Big Monday schedule indicates, there's plenty of reason to talk basketball. ESPN.com is providing updates on conferences with its Summer Shootaround Series. Jason King writes about the Big 12 and also provides this "five freshmen to watch" in the Big 12.
Isaiah Austin, Baylor: RecruitingNation has tagged Austin as the
most-talented player in the Class of 2012. The 7-foot, 210-pounder is an elite
shot-blocker on defense and incredibly versatile on the offensive end, with the
ability to bring the ball up the court, make 3-pointers and drive to the hoop.
It's doubtful he'll be at Baylor for more than one season.
Perry Ellis, Kansas: A Wichita native, Ellis is
one of eight freshmen on the Jayhawks' roster. Look for him to start
immediately alongside Jeff Withey. While the 6-8 Ellis excels in the paint, he
is also a strong ballhandler and outside shooter, which makes him a tough
matchup for opposing forwards. It's rare the Jayhawks are able to find a player
this good in their home state.
Ricardo Gathers, Baylor: The Bears got a gem
when they landed Gathers in the late signing period. At 6-7 and 240 pounds,
Gathers should be able to fill the "banger" role that was occupied by
graduated senior Quincy Acy.
Gathers, though, is more than a thick body down low. He handles the ball away
from the basket and has a nice touch from mid range. His high school coach said
Gathers could blossom into as good of a rebounder as former Kansas star Thomas
Robinson.
Cameron Ridley Texas: Much like Tristan Thompson
did two seasons ago, Ridley will need to have an immediate impact for the
Longhorns, who lack size and depth down low. The eighth-ranked prospect in the
Class of 2012 plays with great energy and takes pride when it comes to pounding
the glass. He needs to work on his passing, as he'll likely be double-teamed
often.
Marcus Smart, Oklahoma State: Much of the
Cowboys' success will depend on how quickly Smart, a McDonald's All-American,
adapts to the college game. The 6-3 Smart (pictured at right) is listed as a shooting guard, but he
can play all three perimeter positions. ESPN recruiting analysts have described
Smart as relentless when it comes to attacking the basket.
