Missouri makes a move in Big 12
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The Big 12 boasts four teams in the national rankings, with Missouri leading the way at No. 6 nationally. Five-star forward Tony Mitchell is the jewel of the class, though there are questions about whether he will qualify academically. The Tigers also have four-star point guard Phil Pressey. Texas moved into the No. 2 slot in the conference and No. 8 spot nationally when the Longhorns added top-10 prospect Cory Joseph to play alongside five-star big man Tristan Thompson. Behind the star power of No. 1 overall recruit Josh Selby, Kansas is No. 3 in the conference and No. 23 nationally. Baylor is at No. 25 and has top-10 power forward Perry Jones headlining its class. Oklahoma and Oklahoma State just missed national rankings but have strong classes.
Best recruiting battle
There was plenty of drama in Josh Selby's recruitment. At one time, he was committed to Tennessee. After decommitting from the Vols, he explored several other schools. But Kansas, behind the strong recruiting effort of coach Bill Self, quickly took the lead and held off a last-minute effort by Tennessee to bring him back into the fold.
Adding size
Of the 15 ranked prospects headed to the Big 12, nine are forwards.
At the top of the list are five-star prospects Perry Jones, Tony Mitchell and Tristan Thompson. Jones has all the physical tools of an NBA talent. Mitchell is a high-flying wing scorer. Thompson is a high-energy producer in the paint.
In the four-star range, Cameron Clark is at the top of the list. He should make an immediate impact at Oklahoma with his versatile game. Michael Cobbins was one of the summer's most pleasant surprises. His length and skill will give Oklahoma State an added dimension. Texas A&M adds power forward Daniel Alexander, a finesse player who is a long-range shooting threat.
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