Top-40 junior Jaeden Mustaf talks recruitment, Duke showing interest

It’s been quite the season for Carmel Christian and Top-35 junior Jaeden Mustaf. For the second straight year, Mustaf’s squad will enter the state final looking to bring that title home. The 6-foot-5, 210-pound guard is emerging as a potential five-star after a very successful junior campaign that once again, could wind up in him hoisting a state title.

Mustaf finished with 18 points in the semi-final victory for Carmel Christian, matching his season average which was 18.5 points per game, along with five rebounds and three assists. For Mustaf, winning with his team is very important for him. Going into this state title match I’m sure the Top-35 prospect is well prepared, striving for the win.

Mustaf’s emergence began far before his junior season started.

Last year, he completed the AAU summer with an Adidas 3SSB championship win, in addition, to the tournament's MVP award. In addition, Mustaf is a D.C Metro-Area-raised kid, the talent bred from that area speaks for itself. His father was also in the NBA and attended Maryland, but it’s evident to me that Mustaf has already cemented his own legacy before even touching an NBA floor.

Mustaf took to Stockrisers.com to answer some questions regarding his recruitment. You’ll find out which blue blood has entered the mix, and who else is involved, and Mustaf speaks on his game and its evolvement this season.

Which schools are heavily involved?

“Virginia Tech, Rutgers, Georgetown, Indiana, NC State, Virginia, Miami, and Florida State.”

Have any new schools reached out recently?

“LSU been texting a lot. Duke also talked to my coach the other day.”

What are your overall thoughts on Virginia Tech and the coaching staff's pitch?

“I really have a good relationship with the coaches, I feel that they show they want me to be a part of their family. I love the atmosphere too, and they’ve been involved for a long time now.”

How about Rutgers?

“Rutgers I feel like shows their interest in me a lot as well. They came to see me play on Tuesday [this week] and my first visit was also to Rutgers and I loved it up there when I went.”

How about NC State?

“I really can see myself in their system playing and winning. I think Coach Keatts is creating a winning culture there and he makes sure he reaches out to me and has also come to see me play this year. Plus it's close to home now.”

Are any visits planned?

“None planned yet but I’m looking to take some this Spring or Summer. Not sure exactly where yet.”

How has your game evolved this season?

“I think over the season I’ve started shooting it better. I think I’ve become a much better leader, and just continuing to improve my ball handling and playmaking ability.”

With AAU approaching, who are you running with, and what goals for the AAU season?

“I’m playing with Boo Williams EYBL, and my goal is to just continue to improve and try and win Peach Jam with my teammates.”

Finally, any guys you’ve discussed a team-up with in college?

“Not really anybody yet, but once I cut my list I will. probably think about who I want to play with.”