LSU basketball recruiting doesn’t have any commitments yet for their class of 2024. Still, coach Matt McMahon is on the right road and could be close to receiving some big-time commits. Four-star forward Jalen Shelley, who recently included the Tigers in his top eight, is one of the major players they’re going after.
LSU basketball recruiting just made the top eight for four-star forward Jalen Shelley
Often, one commitment is all it takes to gain momentum on the recruiting trail. Talent attracts talent, and if the Tigers can earn one big commitment in their class of 2024, it could do big things for them.
Recently, a primary LSU basketball target, four-star Jalen Shelley, included the Tigers in his short list of finalists.
The 6-foot-8, 175-pound forward out of Branson, MO, is an elite prospect and will make some program very happy in the near future. He’s currently the No. 45 player nationally and the No. 14 small forward, according to the 247 Sports Composite.
Along with LSU basketball, Louisville, SMU, Houston and Arkansas seem to be among his top programs. The Louisville Cardinals are currently the team to beat for the four-star commitment.
Shelley is a threat every time he touches the ball
Some basketball players have a natural ability to get buckets. Jalen Shelley is very much one of those players. The four-star lefty has a smooth shooting stroke and is incredibly athletic.
He’s at his best in transition, emphasizing his ability to naturally flow with the game of basketball. In addition, his athleticism more than allows him to rise above defenders for an easy layup or dunk.
The main two things to watch as he grows as a player is weight and aggressiveness. It’s not uncommon to see him allow the game to come to him rather than going out of his way to make a play. While this is often a plus for many players, you’d hope to see a player as gifted as him take more chances and drive to the basket.
Also, at 175 pounds, the four-star forward has plenty of room to fill out his 6-foot-8 frame. However, that will likely come with time, and once he gets in front of a college weightlifting coach, the muscle will happen in no time.
Shelley has some elite playmaking ability and can immediately boost any offense he’s a part of. If coach Matt McMahon manages to steal him away from programs like Louisville, it would be a significant win for the purple and gold. In the meantime, the Tigers are finalists for the elite recruit and are still very much in the running.
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