Shabazz Muhammad: Dunk Contest Winner Would Be Wise to Sign with Kentucky

Shabazz Muhammad stole the show at the McDonald’s All-American Dunk Contest Monday as he came away the winner (via USA Today). His elite talent will make him a star player in college next season. Kentucky is the wisest place for Muhammad to sign.

Muhammad is currently ranked the No. 1 overall prospect in the country according to Rivals.com, and also lands at the No. 2 position inside the ESPNU100. With the star power that he possesses—and the obvious courtship of numerous big name programs—Muhammad isn’t hurting for options.

Where he fits in at Kentucky is easy to see. Kentucky head coach John Calipari has a knack for placing top talent in the NBA quickly from the college level—that is a likely path that Muhammad will follow.

Muhammad is an aggressive player in the open court and is a virtual lock for points when he takes the ball to the basket. Muhammad sells himself out on every play and constantly looks to bring a strong physical presence to the court.

Muhammad isn’t the strongest of three-point shooters, but that is something that can be developed.

Landing at Kentucky will not only provide him with the best platform in college basketball, but it will also allow him to develop under a coach that loves to utilize aggressive shooters on the court.

While Duke, Kansas and others are pushing for his signature, no place fits him like Kentucky. At Duke and Kansas he would fill in well as a great athlete, but the systems employed would not allow for the tenacity he carries on the court to show consistently.

Muhammad’s aggressive play is one his best qualities.

Look for the Muhammad to make his decision soon; the signing deadline is fast approaching, as is his final official visit, which is set for April 7 at UCLA. He has said that he will make his decision known shortly after his visit and discussion with family.

The Wildcats should be sitting by the fax machine with anticipation next month.