The work of Cuonzo Martin to replenish the Missouri basketball roster continues with September success, as MU, on Wednesday, gained a commitment from DeSmet (St. Louis, MO) High School senior Yaya Keita, a 6-foot-9, 225 pound center.
Not only is Keita the biggest recruit of the class physically for Mizzou, he is also the highest-ranked. Although considered a stronger and rebounder at this stage of his development, Keita’s offense game is said to be a work in progress, as he averaged just eight points per game in his junior season, with 9.2 rebounds. As a strong defensive player with length, he is considered a good fit for Martin’s strong, tough-minded style of play.
It's been great experience for me since day one of my recruiting process as I can commit to only one school. I'm happy, excited,and blessed to announced my commitment to Mizzou.thanks to all the coaches that have been interested in me and follow me through my journey I'm thankful pic.twitter.com/5P7EFXmpGw
— Yaya keita (@Yayakei26625378) September 10, 2020
Rivals ranks Keita highly in the Class of 2021, with three stars, the #22 center, and #145 in the class, making him the first of Mizzou’s commitments in the nationwide top 150. He chose in-state MU over local option St. Louis University, the Big 12’s Iowa State and West Virginia, and Big 10’s Iowa. Kansas and Michigan had been among programs showing interest, but not yet extending an offer.
Photo credit – Prep Hoops
