College Basketball
Duke Lands Five Star Recruit Vernon Carey Jr.
About Vernon Carey Jr.
Vernon Carey Jr., the third overall ranked player in the class of 2019, is a highly skilled center listed at 6-foot-10 and 275 pounds. He is currently a senior at NSU University School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Why Duke?
When asked why he selected Duke, Carey said,
“The reason why I chose Duke is Coach K, just the recruiting class they’re bringing in this year, Wendell Moore and Boogie Ellis, and hopefully some guys can come with me,”
Carey said after his commitment. He was also asked why he chose Duke over Michigan State and North Carolina,
“They (Duke) see me as a positionless player. They said I can be anywhere on the court. That worked well with me.”
Strengths
Carey is a dominant post player when he gets within a few feet of the basket, he is near impossible to stop. When in the post, most will be surprised by his first step quickness when considering his size. He is an extremely confident shooter and won’t shy away from an open three. While playing in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL), the big man shot just under three three-pointers each game and cashed in 33.9% of the time. Considering his height and overall size, it is no shock to see that rebounding is his greatest asset.
Weaknesses
Carey weighs 275, so being in basketball shape at the college level, will not be easy. Staying conditioned could prove to be a weakness at the next level. He is not a great shot blocker, though that could change with college coaches and development.
Draft Stock
Vernon Carey Jr. is a surefire ‘one-and-done’ for Duke. In my opinion, he is a lock for the Top 10 in the 2020 NBA Draft.
Photo Credit: Vernon Carey Jr. via Twitter
