Syracuse Basketball: Frank Anselem certainly doesn’t lack confidence

New Syracuse basketball commit Frank Anselem says he can blossom into a NBA Draft first-round pick in two terms.

Frank Anselem, a 2020 four-star center who recently picked Syracuse basketball over other finalists Georgia, San Diego State and New Mexico, is confident in his abilities but also humble in his mentality.

Both are positive personality traits that will serve the 6-foot-10 Anselem well in his time on the Hill, and throughout his life. Even though he’s yet to begin his journey with the Orange, Anselem has some assertive things to say about himself, and that’s refreshing.

For one, Anselem told Rivals.com’s Dan McDonald that he picked the ‘Cuse “because there is no one with my skill set on the roster. Also, it’s in the best basketball conference in America. If I work hard, I can be a first round pick in two years.”

I admire the fact that Anselem has a goal of becoming an NBA Draft first-round selection in the span of two seasons. He’s not focused on being a one-and-done player like so many other elite high-school prospects who make such a declaration before ever setting foot on a collegiate campus.

Now, for Anselem to say that no other guy within the current Syracuse line-up has his skill set could come across as a tad arrogant, but I don’t view it in that regard. Anselem is expressing himself, candidly and honestly, which I respect.

Of course, because he’s yet to play a game in college, it remains to be seen whether his skill set is unique as compared to the Orange’s other big men.

Syracuse basketball recruit Frank Anselem is proud of his talents, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Presently, the ‘Cuse has centers on its roster in senior Bourama Sidibe, sophomore Jesse Edwards, and redshirt freshman John Bol Ajak. Another senior, Marek Dolezaj, can also play center or power forward.

I’m not entirely sold on Anselem’s quote that no other Orange player possesses his skill set, but good for him to have such fortitude in his abilities.

He said to Mike Waters of Syracuse.com, “I can play anywhere on the back of the zone. With my length and my athleticism, stick me anywhere on the backline.”

Love it. Anselem’s agility, flexibility and athleticism will undeniably boost the ‘Cuse core of big men. And he’s prepared to earn his minutes on the court, telling Waters, “It doesn’t matter what coaches tell you. You’ve still got to come in and do the work and prove that you can play.”

Anselem is confident, yet humble. He’s ready to show what he can do, rather than simply talk about it. I can’t wait to watch Anselem don a Syracuse uniform.