Four-star senior Cade Bennerman talks new schools in the mix & game
Cade Bennerman, a 6-foot-11 prospect out of Father Ryan in Tennessee, is viewed as his state’s top-ranked prospect but has now burst onto the national scene.
In his junior campaign with Father Ryan this past year, he averaged 8.5 points and four rebounds a game on 55% shooting, but the ceiling was there, and he proved that this summer.
His combination of height and fluidity in his movement up and down the floor draws attention. The numbers don’t pop on paper, but with instruction and development at the college level, he could be very successful at the next level.
Similar to the recruiting story of Jericho Sims, for example, Bennerman hasn’t ranked anywhere near the top 100 on any outlet's rankings. But now, amidst a recruiting breakout his senior year due to his high upside and just the intangibles he has at 6-foot-11 with a 7’’5 wingspan, Bennerman can continue to rise, and due to his high upside, we could see plenty of new schools entering the mix.
Bennerman had assistant coaches from Duke and NC State this week, among the new schools showing interest. In addition, Florida State came in to see him as well, he told Stockrisers.com, and he mentioned an influx of high-major programs that have reached out and entered the mix.
Stockrisers.com talked with the Father Ryan senior center on Wednesday afternoon, discussed his blossoming recruitment, and gave the outlook on his game and how he looks to develop during his final high school season.
Which schools are heavily involved?
“The schools that have offered: Northwestern, Michigan, Penn State, USF, and Cal.”
And have any newer schools entered the mix?
“Several coaches from different schools have come to see me work out at school. NC State and FSU are some. Duke came by this morning. I’ve also been in conversation with Illinois, Vanderbilt, Notre Dame, and West Virginia.”
What’s Michigan’s pitch to you and your thoughts on how you’d fit in with that program?
“Their style of play matches how I like to play. I am a 6-foot-11 player with my skill set of being able to handle the ball, shoot the deep ball, and dominate the paint on offense and defense. I feel these attributes would be an asset to any team.”
And what was Duke’s pitch and thoughts on them, especially coming in late in the recruiting period?
“Can’t say. I haven’t been up on the visit yet. But I can imagine it’s the same all over. No one wants just to put me in the paint.”
What has the conversation been like with Illinois, Florida State, or one of the newer schools?
“Just getting to know each other and establishing relationships.”
And have you locked in any visits yet?
“Northwestern this weekend. Planning Duke and NC State.”
And how would you best describe your game?
“I would best describe my game as unique. At 6-foot-11, I can handle and bring the ball up the court and on the perimeter. I can shoot the deep ball, have a soft touch close in, and dunk the ball every chance I get. With a 7’5” wingspan, I can block many shots and change/alter shots. This also helps my perimeter defense. My NBA comparison is mostly Kevin Durant and Wemby.”
How would you best improve your game this senior year?
“Continue being a team leader. This year, we are a senior team and have a shot at the State Championship. Get stronger in the weight room by adding more muscle mass.”
And finally, is there any timeline for a decision with your recruitment?
“No timeline, as I am still being actively recruited and going on visits.”