The rich just got a lot richer with the number two overall prospect in the 2022 class rankings, Dereck Lively II (Westtown School, Chester Penn.), selecting to attend Duke University under new head coach in waiting Jon Scheyer.
The 7’2 unicorn is without a doubt the most prized prospect out of next year’s class . Lively, who was the nation’s top uncommitted recruit, joins a group of All-Americans under Jon Scheyer who include 5-star Dariq Whitehead, Kyle Filipowski and four-star shooter Jaden Schutt. This now gives Duke 3 of the nation’s top-10 prospects in the class.
Intangibles
-Versatility
-Consistent markman
-Defensive rim stopper
-Extremely athletic & explosive
-Pick and roll mismatch
Lively’s game resembles Anthony Davis on both ends of the floor. His high energy motor, athleticism, and ability to stretch the floor with his perimeter shooting were reasons Coach K, John Calipari, Juan Howard and Hubert Davis, to name a few, were lined up at his door steps. Duke did indeed get the last official visit with Dereck to sell themselves to the program.
Other suitors who were in pursuit included, UNC, Kentucky, Penn State, Michigan and Florida state. Dereck Lively also received a G-League offer, but with the Name, Image and Likeness act being passed, he’s highly likely due for a big payday from endorsements.
As far as the chatter of Duke losing steam on the recruiting trail, the Blue Devils are on track now to retain the number 1 recruiting class of 2022.