Washington Huskies: Can Markelle Fultz Live up to the Hype?

There are a lot of expectations surrounding the Washington Huskies’ five-star recruit, but what kind of season will Markelle Fultz have?

It’s somewhat of an understatement to say big things are expected from Markelle Fultz. The Washington Huskies‘ incoming freshman is a five-star recruit, who’s regarded as one of the top players in this year’s class.

These expectations were reinforced recently, when Athlon Sports named Fultz as a Preseason First Team All-American. As reported by Gohuskies.com, he was the only freshman on the five-man first team.

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This is just the latest of numerous honors bestowed on the 18-year old guard. In July, he helped Team USA win the gold medal at the FIBA U18 Americas Championships in Chile.

Fultz was sensational for Team USA, averaging 13.8 points, 5.2 assists and four boards per game. Unsurprisingly, he was named MVP of the championships.

The Upper Marlboro, Maryland native followed this up by also making his mark during the Huskies’ foreign tour in Australia and New Zealand. In five games, he averaged 21.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 4.6 dimes.

While it is natural to wonder if Fultz can handle the weight of expectation, you get the feeling he is Russell Wilson-esque. Whereas a lot of people tighten up when the stakes are raised, he seemingly has ice running through his veins as he repeatedly thrives in high-pressure situations.

In fact, the McDonald’s All-American has known nothing but success since going down his chosen path. He was also a Jordan Brand Classic selection, who led all players at the Under Armour All-American camp with 22.8 points per game.

The addition of Fultz to the Huskies’ roster comes at a critical time for Lorenzo Romar. The head coach has endured four consecutive sub-par seasons and the calls for him to be fired will only intensify with another poor campaign.

Fair or not, Fultz will play a significant part in determining Romar’s future in Washington. If all that he’s achieved up to this point is anything to go by, the Huskies are in good hands.

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What kind of success do you predict for Fultz during his freshman year? Further, do you expect the Huskies to move up the standings after four sub-par seasons? Let us know in the comments section below.