Not our usual sauce? Plussed up on assists (way above average I’d guess) and hardly any offensive rebounds which is usually a difference maker we rely on.
I think my takeaway from insiders has been that maybe they are (silently, to the staff) and maybe the rhythm and timing of commitments is part of the recruiting strategy.
I say who cares. Don’t worry about the preseason ranking. Make it impossible for them to deny you what you think you deserve once the season is underway. Earn it.
What is the appeal for international players with NCAA or more specifically U of I? Is it college scholarship? Is it that NIL pays more than they make professionally overseas? Is it increased NBA draft stock due to greater exposure?