Kansas Jayhawks Basketball: Top five recruiting targets for 2019
By Chris Taylor
Matthew Hurt
Matthew Hurt is a 6’9″ power forward from Rochester, Minnesota. Hurt is currently the 5th ranked prospect in the nation and 2nd ranked power forward.
At first glance, Hurt’s appearance will lead you to believe he gets pushed around in the paint. He is quite literally skin and bones. As you watch more and more tape of him, somehow, he manages to not only hold his own down low but pushes what little weight he has all over the court.
He has a knack for making things happen. He isn’t a threat as of now anywhere on the court but down low, but that’s fine for what Bill Self will ask him to do. That doesn’t mean he can’t shoot the ball, because he can. He just isn’t what I would consider a threat to opposing defenses.
He makes well-timed shots and well-timed blocks. His timing is one of his best attributes in my opinion. This will come in handy when he’s faced up against stronger and taller defenders that he will definitely see at the collegiate level.
Hunt plays with a fluidity on the court that almost looks unnatural due to his stature, but there is no doubt he will be a force at the next level. He’s a perfect inside-out player that can shoot, rebound, block, and find the open teammate with ease.
Hunt is an all-around solid player worthy of his ranking. With all of the blue blood programs in on this kid, whoever grabs him will have a very coveted player. Hopefully that team is the Kansas Jayhawks.