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Michigan basketball makes cut on top 10 list for 2021 five-star C Charles Bediako

Juwan Howard and the Wolverines made the short list for a top center prospect in 2021.

By Von Lozon
2020 NBA All-Star - BWB Camp Photo by Nicole Sweet/NBAE via Getty Images

The Michigan Wolverines and Juwan Howard received some pretty good news right before the Fourth of July weekend, as 2021 five-star center prospect Charles Bediako included them in his top 10 list, he announced on Twitter on Friday afternoon.

Michigan joined Memphis, Alabama, Duke, Tennessee, Texas, USC, Ohio State, Maryland and Baylor on Bediako’s top 10 list.

The 6-foot-11, 215-pounder from Ontario, Canada received his offer from coach Howard on April 30 during a Zoom call, according to Jake Weingarten. Since then, Howard has made Bediako a top priority in the 2021 class, as it is clear the Wolverines are trying to reel in another top center target to eventually pair up with incoming freshman Hunter Dickinson.

Bediako is transferring down to IMG Academy for his senior season, which is probably pretty good news for Michigan. He will have plenty of time to familiarize himself with coach Howard’s son, 2022 elite talent Jett Howard. And who knows — perhaps J.J. McCarthy could lend a helping hand here.

Other center prospects Michigan is targeting in 2021 include Moussa Diabate (another five-star down at IMG), five-star Chet Holmgren and five-star Efton Reid.

Regarding Bediako’s game, 247Sports’ Josh Gershon writes:

Mobile center with good size, long arms and budding athleticism. Very physically immature with a frame that should eventually carry a lot more weight. Has improved motor/competitiveness throughout high school career. Still relatively raw on offense but hands and feet don’t give serious limitations. Can finish with both hands but prefers right. Footwork and face up ability could improve. Has made progress as rebounder and rim protector with strength. Needs to get stronger and add to skill but has high ceiling. On path to be high major starter with professional upside depending on skill development.

Bediako is the No. 20 overall player and the No. 3 center in his class, per 247Sports’ composite. You can watch some highlights of his below.