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Steve Pikiell received his first commitment of the 2020 class as legacy student and power forward Dean Reiber committed to the Scarlet Knights today.
Thank you to all who believed in me enough to extend a scholarship offer. One program has hit home to me on every level and I’m excited to announce my commitment to Rutgers. pic.twitter.com/6VYQetRi69
— Dean Reiber (@dean_reiber) August 31, 2019
Reiber, who’s grandfather graduated from the university, has been on Pikiell’s radar for a while. Pikiell watched him several times and then offered him back in April. He also had a high major offer from Penn State and interest from Clemson. 247 has Reiber listed as a three star recruit and a top 50 power forward in the country.
There are currently no true power forwards on the roster for 2020. Shaq Carter and Akwasi Yeboah will be graduating and Eugene Omoruyi transferred (he would have graduated anyway). While Pikiell has intimated that Ron Harper Jr could fill the position and Mamadou Doucoure could shift over their, neither has that at their natural position. Reiber is the first commit for a spot that should be a focus with the recruiting class. Recruiting targets Coleman Hawkins, Martice Mitchell and top priority Cliff Omoruyi also can play the four.
According to his coach--from the article linked above—Reiber is a verstile 6’10”. He has great touch and vision. He can shoot the three, which is important for how the college game is growing. Reiber can potentially develop into a star player over time, and prove to be a vital piece of the 2020 class.
Welcome to the banks, Dean!