Indiana Basketball: 3 must land prospects in 2021 class

1. Trey Kaufman

There is no question that, with or without Lander remaining in the 2021 class, Trey Kaufman is Indiana’s top priority right now.

With Indiana losing Joey Brunk, Justin Smith and the possibility of Trayce Jackson-Davis next season, the Hoosiers are in desperate need of help in the frontcourt.

The 6-foot-8 forward is a highly skilled hybrid frontcourt player who can play inside and out. In today’s game, teams need a forward who can stretch the floor and Kaufman, who shot 39 percent from three over the past two seasons, can do that.

Kaufman has good athleticism and length that allows him to finish above the rim but isn’t an explosive athlete like some other hybrid forwards. Despite that, he still is always involved in the action near the paint.

At the college level, Kaufman would definitely be your typical pick-and-pop forward but he does have enough ball handling ability to take on a defender from the wing.

Defensively, he is a very versatile player who could thrive in Archie Miller’s system. With his ability to guard multiple positions due to his length and agility, he has the ability to guard nearly every position. Though he won’t be a rim protector, he will be a very good team defender.

One comparison for Kaufman could be Trey Lyles. A relatively smooth athlete with the ability to stretch the floor and containing good enough ball skills to play around the perimeter.

Overall, Kaufman is ranked No. 43 in the 2021 class and is a highly sought-after recruit from most of the midwestern schools.