By ZACH SMART
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. – Fleeing from obscurity and generating buzz across the high major market, Class of 2027 7-foot VWBA Center Teke Deng is coming off arguably the most convincing stretch of his prep/AAU career.
Deng has registered his presence as a loud shot blocker buoyed by timing, tenacity, and an ability to change the trajectory of shots inside.
Beyond steering rim attackers clear of the driving lanes it is Deng’s catch and finish game, soaring transition dunks, and polished all around offensive skill set which differentiates him.
This uniqueness was on display throughout the Recruitlook Nashville Live in Frankin, Tenn. recently.
“Kentucky and USC, they recently reached out,” said Deng, a stabilizing influence and double double threat who helped guide Olathe North to a Kansas 6A state title during his junior season.
“I recently visited Kansas State (unofficially). I really enjoyed my visit, as well as the campus. The coaches basically told me they have a plan for me and showed how they want to develop me. I also received an offer from UNLV (last month).”
The new staff at Kansas State appears to be prioritizing Deng. KSU head coach Casey Alexander, who was hired in March after piling up a 166-60 record during his memorable stay at Belmont, was recently in to see Deng in Chicago.
UNLV, which offered Deng a little over a month ago, is looking to get the long, lithe and versatile recruit on a visit.
It is hard to believe UNLV was the previously unranked Deng’s first offer, given the national credibility he’s gained over the previous three weeks.
“Oh yeah, recruiting wise, things are definitely turning,” Deng said.
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