Shabazz Muhammad: Power Ranking Final Contenders to Land Elite Recruit

Shabazz Muhammad, the nation's top undeclared recruit, will make his college choice in a couple days, but still hasn't tipped his hand as to which of the three finalists has an edge. According to Rivals, the Las Vegas native will choose between Duke, Kentucky and UCLA.

Let's take a look at the chances each of the schools have to land the coveted forward. His decision will shift the balance of power in college basketball heading into next season.

1. Kentucky

Wildcats head coach John Calipari proved his one-and-done system not only prepares players for the NBA quickly, but is also capable of winning a national championship. That should give him a leg up in the Muhammad sweepstakes since the swingman has NBA dreams.

Since the roster has so much turnover on a yearly basis, Muhammad would receive ample playing time right away and would likely become a key contributor like Anthony Davis. At 6'6'', he'd do more of his damage on the perimeter than Davis, but both guys have extremely bright futures.

Kentucky will be the focal point of college basketball as it attempts to defend the title, and the spotlight is usually what elite recruits are looking for to showcase their ability. That's why the Wildcats have an edge, in my opinion.

2. Duke

After a shocking loss to Lehigh in the NCAA tournament, Mike Krzyzewski has gone back to the drawing board to figure out a way to make sure there's no similar disappointment next season. Muhammad would be one way to do it.

Hyped freshman Austin Rivers had a solid season on the offensive end and decided to bolt for the NBA. Muhammad would be able to replace him immediately and should provide a more well-rounded game, especially on the defense.

The Blue Devils would be in much better shape if it weren't for that opening-game loss. They still have a legitimate chance to land Muhammad since he sounds truly undecided, but Coach K will have to work his magic to overcome Kentucky.

3. UCLA

It's been a rough season at UCLA. The college basketball power finished in the middle of the Pac-12 and was rocked by a Sports Illustrated report about recent problems at the school, including drinking and drug use, which have caused the team to struggle.

That's not an ideal situation for a recruit to enter, but the program is still one of the most prominent in the sport. Playing out West—where Muhammad resides—represents the biggest advantage Ben Howland must utilize to land Muhammad.

He's the type of player who can turn the program around in a single season, but right now the Bruins seem like a long shot to land him. They have to be encouraged that he hasn't eliminated them yet, but it will take an extraordinary effort to close the deal.