Kansas Basketball: 2017 Big Man Targets
By Ryan Noel
Deng Gak – Forward – PSA Cardinals
The 6’10” Deng Gak, who originally hails from Australia, is beginning to draw serious attention on the Nike EYBL circuit. Playing for the PSA Cardinals – who previously sent Cheick Diallo to Kansas – Gak is surrounded by elite talent. Kansas has already offered three of his teammates – Brandon Randolph, Quade Green, and Mohammed Bamba.
Gak is an interesting prospect in that he’s long and athletic with great hands. He has shown impressive touch with both hands around the basket, though he is not a consistent scorer yet. His athletic potential is nearly as high as anyone in the class, as he is quick off the floor and moves really well for his size and length. With the focus of modern basketball being versatility – especially on defense – Gak will have a role at the high major level with those tools.
Tier 2
The Kansas staff offered Gak back in February, and has followed him with the PSA Cardinals this spring. With the likelihood of Carlton Bragg turning pro after his sophomore year, the Jayhawks will be in the market for athletic forwards to put alongside Udoka Azubuike and potentially Deandre Ayton. Right now, though, we’re hearing that Duke has jumped way out in front since they offered.
Next: Just How Good is Mo Bamba?