Maryland’s new recruit is ‘best recruit in America’? Um, OK

Maryland landed the “best recruit in America” and a “lottery pick” in Olexiy Len. No pressure there.

Oh, it’s not the school saying that. The official release by coach Mark Turgeon was your standard fare of pleasantries and basic announcements:

“We are very excited about the addition of Alex to our basketball team. To be able to add a player with his ability so late in the recruiting calendar is good for us. We’re fortunate that, prior to our arrival, Alex was being recruited to Maryland. For him to reach this point is a testament to his great family support and his character. I’m looking forward to working with Alex and helping him reach his potential as a player and a person.”

It’s an anonymous coach who heaped the hype on Len, mostly from his play at the U-18 European Championships in 2010 where he averaged 16 points, 11.4 rebounds and 4.3 blocks an outing in nine games. He undoubtedly can play. But the best recruit in America?

Hey, even the Testudo Times is treading carefully with that. As they note, there’s been next to no news about Len until now. I’d say caution is warranted, lest the guy falters amid monster expectations.

First, ensure he’s eligible to play. Then we can go from there.

Related stories:

• Maryland still needs a little of Gary Williams’ magic
• Terps A.D. went commercial in search of new coach
• Maryland keeps a recruit, lands a star recruiter

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