Louisville Basketball: Three 2021 recruits you need to know
By Alex Payton
Matthew Cleveland – Guard
Alpharetta, GA (Four-star)
Matthew Cleveland is a 6’6 guard out of Alpharetta, Georgia. He is a 4-star recruit that Chris Mack has had his eye on for a while, receiving a scholarship offer in June of 2019.
The 2021 prospect has offers from Florida State, Auburn, Clemson, and others. Rivals had him drop a little as of late, coming in nationally as the 40th best recruit in his class. It might be hard for Mack and the Louisville coaching staff to take him away from home. Cleveland has visited Georgia Tech more than any other school, with many believing that may be where he lands.
However, he did make a trip to Louisville for a visit. He said, “It was really good, I got to meet all of the coaches, and got to watch some of the shootaround, and it was just high intensity and really good.”
Jerry Meyer of 247 Sports’ evaluation of Cleveland:
"“Good length for a wing scorer. An explosive athlete with top-notch body control. Slasher who specializes in making tough shots. Can keep defense honest with long-range shooting but needs to improve in that area. Handles well especially in half court. Not necessarily a playmaker for others. Great potential as a versatile defender. Top notch rebounder for his position.”"
This would be a huge commit for the Cardinals, but Mack will have to battle against Georgia Tech and Florida State to land Cleveland.
What stands out is Cleveland’s ability to use his 6’6″ frame and long strides to his advantage. As a polished ball-handler, Cleveland is capable of getting to the basket from anywhere on the court with ease. His strengths are the exact qualities that Mack looks for. He is an above-average defender, blossoming shooter, slashes to the basket at an elite level, and crashes the boards hard.
Next. Way too early bold predictions for 2020-21 for Louisville basketball. dark
Keep an eye on him as the time comes for 2021 recruits to announce some decisions.