Efton Reid's future is bright, but also a mystery

Efton Reid came in at No. 24 overall and as the No. 3 center in the recent 2021 rankings update. Despite that high ranking, his recruitment is one of the biggest mysteries because he simply does not like to talk about it publicly.

“It’s basically the same schools for me right now, the ones everyone already knows," Reid said. "Everyone has been pressing me, (but) right now I am focusing on finishing the season strong.”

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MORE PLAYER UPDATES: Layden Blocker | Ruot Bijiek

2021 Rankings: Rivals150 | Team | Position

2022 Rankings: Rivals150 | Team | Position

2023 Rankings: Top 30

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Reid played his first three seasons at the Steward School in Richmond, Va. He decided to transfer to IMG Academy in Florida this year for his postgraduate season.

“Coming to IMG, it’s been a good transition for me," Reid said. "I am at a good weight now - you know how I looked last year. I feel stronger and I feel much better with my body. I move better.”

While the recruiting process has been different, Reid has still been able to get a little taste of the true process, as he did take some visits prior to the pandemic.

“Fortunately, I was blessed to take three officials before this pandemic hit: Louisville, Virginia and Ohio State," he said. "I was able to see a little bit of what the college experience was all about. But with all these Zoom calls and stuff, I am just working to see what college I fit best with.”

Reid went on to talk about what was important to him in diving into these schools to make his choice.

“It’s going to come down to how I am going to be used, how I fit into their system and how I am going to look the best and develop,” he said.

However, it is not a foregone conclusion Reid will go to college. Looking at the recent trends of LaMelo Ball and RJ Hampton playing in the NBL, Josh Hall and Jalen Lecque going straight to the NBA or the G-League Ignite program, there are options on the table for Reid.

“The G-League has not reached out to me as of now, but declaring for the draft is definitely an option," Reid said. "I am going to have to talk closely with my circle and gather as much information as possible, and sit down to figure out the best option and the best route for me.”

"I can play on the inside, and on the outside. I am becoming more comfortable on the perimeter.” Reid said. “I’ve heard I play like LaMarcus Aldridge, a very versatile and skilled big, basically.”

IMG Academy postgraduate head coach Chad Myers addressed what Reid will bring to the table at the next level.

“Efton is just super-skilled, kind of like a (Nikola) Jokic type of guy," Myers said. "He really knows how to play, he gets the ball side to side, he’s got good footwork inside, he makes his free throws and can jump out and knock down threes. I think Efton is very cerebral and he sees the game, and you can actually play through him a little bit with his vision.”

Reid is a throwback big, of sorts. He is very skilled and has an array of post moves, over both shoulders and it involves comfort with a Kareem-style skyhook. Reid has great length and his instincts, with the ball in his hands, are natural.

Reid displays a good passing eye and touch that extends out to the three-point line. If he ends up going to college, it may be to a school that has not officially offered yet, but the professional route is seeming to be a real option as well.