Stanford recruiting class is top-ranked class in Pac-12

The Stanford Cardinal men’s basketball season in 2019-20 didn’t end the way we all wanted it to but at least things are looking brightly for the 2020-21 season.

The Cardinal 2020 recruiting class stands as the top-ranked unit in all of the Pac-12, highlighted by Ziaire Williams, a five-star recruit. Depending on where you look as well, it’s not just good in the Pac-12, it’s nationally good.

Rivals puts the Stanford class at 14th overall while 247Sports ranks them at 13th-best in the country. Either way you slice it there, both recruiting outfits rank the Cardinal class at first in the Pac-12.

Head coach Jerod Haase told GoStanford.com that he’s incredibly excited for the direction of the program.

“I am ecstatic about the direction of the program, and can’t wait to get back onto the court with this group. There is certainly reason for optimism surrounding the program, and we are looking to build on this. The exciting part is this group understands that we will have to earn everything this year and beyond to achieve our dreams and goals.”

This group is highlighted by Williams who is the nation’s top small forward prospect from Lancaster, California.

He’s a composite five-star recruit and the top-rated prospect to ever commit to Stanford since the inception of 247Sports composite ranking system. Williams also represents the first five-star composite player to play for Stanford since the Lopez brothers did in 2006.

Then there’s the other three signees: Noah Taitz, Max Murrell and Brandon Angel.

Taitz is the class’ 20th-ranked shooting guard and a top-100 player according to ESPN’s rankings. He had offers from USC, Washington and a few other schools but chose to follow his high school pedigree that also sent Rosco Allen to Stanford from 2012-16.

Murrell is the top player from the state of Nebraska, a four-star recruit and the 16th-best power forward prospect for this class. He’s a lefty as well, so he’s also got that going for him as he brings an incredible set of athleticism and shot-blocking skills.

Angel is another four-star recruit and ranks as the 26th-best small forward prospect in the class. He has terrific range on his shots and chose Stanford over Cal and Wisconsin among other programs.

There’s no questioning Haase’s recruiting ability, that’s for sure. What he does with them once he gets them, is the only real question, and likely the results (one way or another) will determine how long he remains as the head coach at Stanford.

Until then, keep bringing in the big names, coach, we’re behind you on this one.

And to the four newest members of the Cardinal basketball family, welcome! You made a great choice!

Go Card!