Ole Miss commit John Bol flashes skills, potential in McDonald’s All American game
OXFORD, Miss. — Ole Miss basketball commit John Bol participated in the McDonald’s All American game Wednesday night, making him the second Ole Miss recruit to do so in the last four years.
While preparing for the game, Bol had the opportunity to practice alongside some of the nation’s top talent, including players such as Cooper Flagg (Duke), Drake Powell (North Carolina), Tahaad Pettiford (Auburn), and others.
Bol’s East team finished with an 88-86 win over the West squad, coming back from a 17-point deficit at the half. Of Bol’s performance in the game, NBA Draft Room writes: “He’s a very mobile and athletic 7-2 player who will have to add strength and develop his game but has a bright basketball future.”
The 7-foot-2 center scored four points (all came off dunks), collected two rebounds, and had one steal in 11 minutes of play.
🔨🔨🔨@JohnBol_7 x @McDAAG pic.twitter.com/EIc0BHtVxu
— Ole Miss Men’s Basketball (@OleMissMBB) April 3, 2024
Bol’s enormous presence in the paint is going to be crucial for Ole Miss in 2025, as the Rebs were unable to generate offensive efficiency through their big men this past season.
Additionally, Ole Miss only had one player who averaged over five rebounds per game in 2023, and that was 6-foot-6 Allen Flanigan. With Overtime Elite, Bol is averaging nearly 10 rebounds per game, which is a promising sign for Rebel fans.
😱@JohnBol_7 x @McDAAG pic.twitter.com/BcPUYLATuQ
— Ole Miss Men’s Basketball (@OleMissMBB) April 3, 2024
Bol first started playing basketball in 2019. Since then we’ve seen the 7-foot-2 big man skyrocket up recruiting rankings as his game continues to grow at a tremendous rate with elite physical tools. Ole Miss is getting a high-upside energy big in Bol who will be able to come in and immediately make an impact thanks to those tools and defensive tendencies. Possessing a 7-foot-8 wingspan, plus awareness and timing, makes Bol an immediate rim protecting threat to help take away parts of the paint. Defensive versatility isn’t in every 7-footer’s game, but Bol is light on his feet and possesses the switchability to at least step out on the perimeter if needed. His length, agility, height and motor provide the tools for a high-end prospect who can both protect the paint and move well in space for short spurts. That length is favorable for Bol as he is able to use that wingspan to reach over others for rebounds and tipouts.
On the offensive end, Bol is still getting a better feel for the game. He excels at putbacks and has room to grow quickly to become a high-end lob threat thanks to his spatial awareness and vertical ability. Bol could find success early as a rim-running big who can really get out in transition and beat defenders down the middle of the court. In time Bol will work on developing his post arsenal as he looks to find more ways to impact on the offensive end. He will look to benefit from being in a college strength and conditioning program that could see him add to his wiry frame and increase the strength in his hands for rebounding. Overall, Bol’s defensive upside can have him making an impact as a modern day big who can protect the rim and step out on defense. His offensive game will grow over time but good awareness, touch, and a favorable development arc could see his game skyrocket as he continues to mature.
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Zach Moreth
Zach is a freshman at Ole Miss and is studying Sports Administration. Outside of watching and playing sports, he enjoys spending time with his loved ones and being active. I’m excited to help cover our amazing Ole Miss sports teams!
