https://247sports.com/college/baske...ting-from-the-Jordan-Brand-Classic-131362658/
Five-star forward Jaden McDaniels participated in the first Jordan Brand Classic practice on Friday, and he gave an update on his recruitment afterward.
The No. 5 overall player in the 2019 class has a top five consisting of Kentucky, San Diego State Texas, UCLA, and Washington, but he said he is still taking the process slowly.
“I’m just taking my time,” McDaniels said. “At first, it’s really cool getting all the attention, but I’m just taking it slow and letting it ride out and just going with the flow.”
When it comes to Washington, it is home for McDaniels, which he admitted is alluring to him. The five-star played his high school basketball at Federal Way High School in Washington.
“You can’t go wrong being at home,” McDaniels said. “I’m also cool with all the coaches. I’ve known [assistant coach Will] Conroy since before I got to high school, so it’s a good relationship.”
McDaniels is also being heavily recruited by fellow five-star prospect and Huskies commit Isaiah Stewart who has been with McDaniels during the McDonald’s All-American festivities and now at the Jordan Brand Classic.
“He’s always throwing up the W every time I see him,” McDaniels said. “He’s always trying to get me to come to play with him.”
As far as Kentucky, McDaniels took an official visit to Lexington on Nov. 9, and he received an in-home visit from coach John Calipari on Dec. 9.
McDaniels said Calipari and the Wildcats 2019 class are two of the biggest reasons that they are one of his five finalists.
“Cal [Calipari] is a real good dude, and he’s going to tell you straight up at all times,” McDaniels said. “It’s also fun being recruited by Kahlil Whitney and Tyrese Maxey because they are both great players.”
The five-star prospect said he does not have an announcement date yet, but it is clear that whichever school lands him is getting a player with arguably the most potential in the 2019 class.
At 6-foot-11, McDaniels has the athletic ability and length to play down low, and he also has a very well-developed mid-range shot that will be dangerous at the next level. 247Sports National Recruiting Analyst – Josh Gershon – gave some very high praise for McDaniels.
“Has terrific body control and can play some three due to the first step and long strides. Competent shooter out to three can also hit pull-up jumpers and floaters from midrange,” Gershon said. “Also comfortable with back to the basket and attacking the offensive glass. Gaining strength will be key moving forward, also can improve jumper and handle. Has narrow frame so being able to put on weight will be key. Has a lottery pick upside with added strength, skill.”