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Mitchell Wilbekin is a 6'2 guard from Gainesville, Florida and the younger brother of standout Florida Gator guard Scottie Wilbekin. Mitchell is in the 2014 graduating class and fields offers from Florida St., Central Florida, South Florida, Texas and Tulsa. He made a commitment to Danny Manning 's Tulsa squad in September but has recently asked a release of LOI by the university. Manning's decision to leave Tulsa for Wake Forest appears to be the primary reason behind Wilbekin's decision, however there as not been a public declaration of such.
Mitchell Wilbekin is a very skilled point guard whose greatest assets are his basketball IQ and shooting range. Wilbekin is a pass first guard who doesn't force his will on the defense but takes what is given to him. Wilbekin also displays a quick first step that allows him to penetrate, draw the defense to him and distribute for an easy bucket. Watching his tape it is also plain to see Wilbekin's smooth jump shot, as his ability to take an opponent off the dribble creates the separation necessary to get his shot off.
Barring any roster attrition the Deacs will have one scholarship spot available for the 2014-2015 classes. There has been no indication that Manning will reach out and offer Wilbekin, but the need for a guard that can stretch the defense has led to speculation. I believe Wilbekin would make for an excellent long term pick-up, but with guards Shelton Mitchell and Rondale Watson coming in Coach Manning may choose to save his available scholarship for the 2015 class. If Coach Manning chooses to extend an offer to Wilbekin, I believe he may be given the opportunity to red shirt, which would allow him to add strength while also breaking up the Deac's scholarship distribution.
Mitchell Wilbekin averaged 15 points, 3 assists and 2 steals as a junior, so it will be interesting to see where he ends up. Follow us for up to date coverage of Mitchell Wilbekin and the rest of the 2014 recruiting class. Also, be sure to follow Mitchell on twitter and as always, go Deacs!