There’s no replacing talents like Josh Hart and Kris Jenkins, but Villanova head coach Jay Wright took a significant step in the right direction by earning Jermaine Samuels’ signature just one day before the 2016-17 season kicked off.
Now, only one starter from Villanova’s 2015-16 national championship squad remains – Jalen Brunson – and Samuels, a four-star small forward, serves as the headliner of Wright’s 2017 class and the next generation of Wildcats.
On paper and on film, Samuels looks the part of everything Villanova needs and more.
At 6’6, 205 pounds, Samuels already possesses college-ready size and his skill set and mentality should aid in a seamless transition, as well.
At this point in his progression, Samuels isn’t exactly dominant in any one category, but from the time he steps on campus, he’ll equip Wright’s rotation with a Swiss Army Knife option. For an example of the type of productivity Villanova fans can come to expect from the Franklin (Mass.) native, look no further than Samuels’ Jordan Brand Regional contributions in which he added 14 points, four rebounds and a pair of assists and blocks.
From the time Samuels steps on campus this summer and ultimately debuts in November, what should be most easily evident will be his size and sheer athleticism.
As noted, Samuels is a stout 6’6, 205 pounds and with another half a year before his collegiate career tips off, it wouldn’t be surprising if he’s 6’7, 215 pounds when he first steps on the floor. As is, he’s a high-level athlete and with a 6’10 wingspan, so it’s not much of a surprise that Samuels excels as a slasher and playing above the rim and finishing with authority. More so, he’s adept attacking off the dribble and when doing so, Samuels displays exceptional body control and the ability to adjust to contact.
Much of the reason Samuels was able to utilize his slashing prowess so often throughout the last year is largely due to his improved perimeter touch. Samuels was already a solid option from mid-range, but has increased his consistency from deep considerably and should prove to be a reliable option in catch-and-shoot situations next season.
Considering Villanova loses 51.4 percent of its three-point shooting with Hart and Jenkins gone, that should be music to Wright and the Nova fan base’s ears.
In short, he’s not a guy that’s going to average 20 per game right from the jump, but offensively, there’s much to like about what Samuels can provide from day one to a team that lost plenty. Additionally, he’s a solid rebounder and willing passer.
Much of the same can be said for Samuels’ potential defensive presence.
For starters, which often isn’t the case with high-level high school prospects, Samuels is a capable and willing defender, often with as much effort as he exerts offensively. Bearing in mind his 6’10 wingspan and willingness to play the passing lanes and contest shots at the rim, it’s plausible that Samuels can match Mikal Bridges’ 2016-17 defensive efforts in which he compiled 60 steals and 32 blocked shots.
Regardless of which end of the floor he’s on, Samuels just competes, which goes hand-in-hand with arguably his most impressive trait – his mentality.
After speaking with Samuels on a couple occasions, what’s most notable is his demeanor. He presents an ideal blend of humility and confidence and isn’t afraid of the stage. Samuels has the makings of a leader, both on and off the court, at the next level and while that may not immediately show up next season, it won’t be long before it does.
As far as next season is concerned, though, Samuels won’t have any issue finding minutes.
At this point, Samuels looks like a quality option as a backup to Bridges and will surely spend time on the wing running alongside both Bridges and Donte DiVincenzo, or whichever guards are on the floor. Additionally, considering Wright love small ball lineups in which a 4-out, 1-in offense can thrive, expect to see plenty of Samuels at either forward position, providing further length and versatility to next season’s rotation.
There’s every reason to be excited about what Samuels is going to bring to Villanova next season, and he’s well aware of that.
Following his final outing as a high school player during the Jordan Brand Regional, Samuels had a message for the Nova Nation:
“Be ready. I’m gonna be ready to play and give you guys a show.”
