Recapping 2012 Commit Caris LeVert

One of the later additions to the 2012 recruiting class was shooting guard Caris LeVert from Pickerington  Ohio.  Yes, the same hometown as 2013 football commit Taco Charlton and 2014 prospect Jae'sean Tate.  Of course, that was probably part of the reason that LeVert decided on Michigan, but the biggest factor was when Ohio coach John Groce left Ohio for Illinois.  LeVert quickly decommitted from Ohio and was swooped up by Beilein.

LeVert has a multitude of skills that make him a big pickup for Michigan in the 2012 class.  Not only is he a good shooter, but he can attack the basket and play good defense.  His skills are so diverse that teammates have actually compared him to Kevin Durant, arguably one of the best players in the NBA.  However, another reason they have compared him to Durant is because of his tiny frame, which could be a negative aspect for him when Big Ten season arrives.  Of course, bulking up isn't as important in basketball as it is in football, but the challenge of facing teams like Michigan State and their huge lineups are a reason why LeVert probably needs to bulk up some over the course of this year.

Here are the basic listings for LeVert:

	ESPN	Rivals	Scout	247Sports
Height	6’5”	6’4”	6’4”	6’4”
Weight	N/A	175 lbs	175 lbs	175 lbs
Position	SG	SG	SG	SG
Rating	2*	3*	3*	NR
Position Rank	#69	NR	NR	NR
National Rank	NR	NR	NR	NR

There are a few things to note about LeVert's rankings listed above.  First, the official athletic site has him listed at 170 lbs.  Not tiny, but I think bulking up will be important for his durability and performance against the big lineups.  Even 5-10 lbs might be enough for him to get by pretty well.  There is also a consensus about his position at a shooting guard.  I think he will get most of his time at the 2 spot, but I could see him playing at the 3 if Michigan needs him there.  I don't expect him to get much, if any, time at the 3 this season, but in the coming years it's definitely a possibility.

If anybody is unrated in Michigan's 2012 class, it's probably LeVert.  People have raved about his talents and ability since he came on the scene and most believe he will be a much better college player than many of the experts project.  In my opinion, he's definitely worthy of a 3 star ranking and I think he has a good shot at developing into a solid Big Ten player.  If he bulks up and works on some of his skills, he has a decent shot at becoming a very good player, but for now, I think he needs to improve in some areas such as size and probably a little bit in defense and rebounding.

Finally, let's take a look at this season.  I don't think LeVert will start at any point, but from what I have heard from practice, he appears to be making a splash and is a quality player.  I had originally projected a redshirt, but if he's capable of playing, put him in.  I definitely think he will get some time in the early games as Michigan is searching for its rotation, but his time will probably shrink against those tougher Big Ten teams.  Either way, he should be a solid addition for both this year and beyond.  LeVert may not be the most hyped recruit in Michigan's recruiting class, but he's a player that could make a big impact.

Here's his highlight video: