ACC Basketball: Top 5 Freshmen for 2016-17

Jayson Tatum, Duke Blue Devils, small forward, #0

Jayson Tatum is the No. 3 overall player in the class of 2016. This season, he will be part of the second-ranked recruiting class of 2016. DraftExpress projects Tatum to be selected third overall in the 2017 NBA Draft. NBADraft.net predicts that Tatum will be the eighth overall pick.

Tatum will start at the small forward position for the Blue Devils. In Duke’s blue-white scrimmage game, Tatum scored 19 points.

Tatum possesses a smooth, all-around game. He may be the best small forward to play at Duke since Grant Hill. His skill level is actually NBA-ready right now.

Tatum may be the top scorer for the Blue Devils. Keep in mind that Duke still has Grayson Allen who ranked second in the ACC in scoring last season (21.6) and Luke Kennard.

Tatum’s defense and productivity will be great additions to Duke. His game completes their starting lineup, which will be one of the best in the country. Tatum plays above the rim, can man the ‘stretch four’ position during ‘small ball,’ and plays well in transition.

Tatum will be a part something special in Durham, North Carolina this season. Many people predict that Duke will cut down the nets next April. Coach K reloaded his team with a superior freshman recruiting class.

Tatum will play well off of Harry Giles, Jr. and Marques Bolden. Although they may be young players, their skill sets surpass their youth.