Cuonzo Martin Needs Big-Name Recruit to Gain for Tennessee Vols Future Success

For University of Tennessee head coach Cuonzo Martin the time is now for him to put his stamp on his program as a recruiter.

So far, in the aftermath of a NCAA investigation that pretty much lost him a year of recruiting, Martin has been able to garner no better than mid-major talent.

Saturday Martin has his chance to make the Vols a force for years to come with visits coming from three highly regarded recruits.

According to the Knoxville News Sentinel, Jarnell Stokes, Landen Lucas and Adonis Flier are visiting campus this weekend.

Stokes, a 6’8”, 250-pound power forward out of Memphis, TN, is the prize of the bunch.

Ranked 18th overall in ESPNU’s top 100 recruits for 2012, a commit from Stokes would not only be a win for in-state recruiting, but also show Martin can recruit against the likes of Florida and Memphis, who are also vying for his services.

Stokes’ size is badly needed by the Vols.

According to ESPN.com’s scouting report, Stokes can score around the basket and can absorb contact. Think Wayne Chism as a senior without the 3-pointer.

Lucas, a 6’8”, 220 pound center out of Portland, OR, would also give Tennessee size.

An ESPN.com 3-star recruit, Lucas is the top-ranked recruit out of Oregon and has other offers from Stanford, California and Washington.

ESPN.com’s scouting report says Lucas has a great frame and is getting stronger by the minute. While lacking lift he is one of the better power players on the west coast, according to the report.

There’s no doubt Martin’s recruiting future revolves around Stokes. Get Stokes and other four-star and five-star recruits will follow.

If Martin can secure Lucas he’ll have two great inside forces to go with a backcourt of Trae Golden and Jordan McRae to begin his second season with the Vols.

A commit by Stokes to a rival will ad to what is becoming a long list of highly touted recruits to turn down the Vols in Martin’s short tenure.

Martin’s only 2012 commitment so far is Derek Reese, a 6’7” small forward from Orlando, FL who also had interest from James Madison, Georgia Southern, Jacksonville and the University of Central Florida.

Talent is needed to succeed in the Southeastern Conference. Mid-major talent will make the Vols no more than Missouri State Southeast.