Before Syracuse blew it against North Carolina a month ago, reports were floating that Adam Weitsman was bringing two high-profile recruits to the game.
Moore showed up and committed to Syracuse the following weekend. However, Fland’s case was a different story.
We know what you’re thinking. “Sound the alarms, another recruiting failure, why can’t this program bring in a good recruit!” First of all, Moore just pledged to the ‘Cuse (as did William Patterson). Secondly, Fland’s High School team, Archbishop Stepinac, had a game that day. In no way, shape, or form can you blame a recruit for skipping a scheduled visit in order to play a game. Sure, it would’ve been awesome for Fland to see the Loud House rocking, but there is no reason to panic.
It’s no secret that New York City high school basketball is one of the biggest recruiting hotspots in the country. And SU just had some success on that front. Moore hails from Cardinal Hayes, which upended Archbishop Stepinac 66-60 back on December 2. To simplify things, Moore and Fland have seen each other’s games. Might that provide an in for the ‘Cuse?
Make no mistake, securing Fland’s services is a marathon in waiting. Every major outlet lists him as a five-star. The likes of North Carolina, Duke, Kansas, Kentucky, and Villanova among others figure to be players in the race. But isn’t that all the more reason why Syracuse should make a heavy run at him, and dare we say make him the focal point when it comes to 2024 recruiting? It’s time to embrace the competition and go full send.
The above video showcases it all. Fland has the potential to be a completely well-rounded player something this Syracuse team currently lacks. Neither Judah Mintz nor Jesse Edwards is a threat from beyond the arc, and Joe Girard lacks the size to be a game-changing defender. Fland’s 6’3″ frame doesn’t light the world on fire, but it makes a big difference. He can shoot off the dribble too. Few players in college basketball have the ability to say they can make an impact in every aspect of the game, Fland could be one of them.
With Moore and Patterson both committing over the last few weeks, the program finally has recruiting momentum once again. But if you want to make a real power play move, bringing in Fland is the way to go. Then you’re really back on the map.
