The Bruins are starting to target some length, and one major prospect is showing mutual interest.
Class of 2022 power forward Julian Phillips released his top 10 finalists Monday, with UCLA men's basketball making the cut alongside Alabama, Kansas, LSU, Florida State, Tennessee, Clemson, Florida, Virginia and USC. The 6-foot-8 tweener from Blythewood High School (SC) got his UCLA offer on July 8, but had apparently been in contact with the team for several months at that point.
Phillips told Phenom Hoop Report's Patrick O'Brien in early June that the Bruins were one of the teams that was showing very strong interest, and that interest seems to go both ways now.
Phillips also had offers from Arizona State, Boston College, DePaul, Indiana, Wake Forest and several other high-major programs.
A four-star prospect in the 247Sports Composite ratings, Phillips ranks No. 25 in the country and No. 2 at his position based on that metric. ESPN and 247Sports have him rated four stars and ranked No. 30 and 36, respectively, while Rivals lists him as a five-star recruit ranked No. 21 in the nation.
Phillips is best known for his explosive athleticism, high basketball IQ and sound playmaking abilities on the fast break. He took a major leap last summer, averaging 20 points and 10 rebounds per game with Upward Stars Southeast (SC).
UCLA already has two commits in its 2022 class – combo guards Amari Bailey and Dylan Andrews – which is already ranked No. 1 in the Pac-12 and No. 5 in the country. The lack of length and size in the class is notable, however, especially considering both of the incoming 2021 freshman are also guards and wings.
Phillips is by no means a dominant post presence, but his versatile frame could be an interesting weapon for coach Mick Cronin to utilize moving forward.
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