Washington’s rarely hurting for talented players. The Huskies aren’t a destination spot, but Romar usually snags one or two solid local players every season to pair with guys from other areas. It’s all by design, too.
The Huskies want versatile, athletic guys who can run the floor, hit outside shots and maybe even grab a rebound or two. That’s what Romar’s been looking for.
And if those guys aren’t highly rated recruits, he doesn’t care, as he told Percy Romar in this Q&A with the Seattle Times:
Sure, he’s landed 5-star guys like Tony Wroten, Abdul Gaddy and Quincy Pondexter, but those are players who fit within Romar’s system. Just as crucial are the Darnell Gants and Venoy Overtons. (Not to mention the plethora of 4-star recruits like Justin Holiday and Terrence Ross.)
And, reading more of Romar’s interview, it sounds as if the days of brining in the likes of Spencer Hawes – a skilled 7-footer who left after one season and is now floundering in the NBA – are over. Why chase after hyped guys if they’re not going to result in much more than a season-long headache? Romar may be overstating it a bit with ex-Huskies-turned-NBA players, but his point is taken.
You bring in guys you like, help them improve and everyone wins.
Washington’s no different than many program who recruit for their needs, not the occasional splash headline. Butler does it. VCU is doing it. Every smart program does it. No one would ever pass on a 5-star guy, but most good coaches have the goods to win without ‘em. (Not to mention sure things are a rarity.)
Washington’s got a little bit of everything – 5-star, 4-star, 3-star and 2-star players. Everyone has a role. Everyone’s there for a reason. You don’t need a team full of stars to win a title. You just need guys who can play.
Related story:
You also can follow me on Twitter @MikeMillerNBC.