Yellow Jacked Up
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Georgia Tech Basketball Position Preview: Power Forward & Center

By Bronston Tankersley

MIAMI, FL - DECEMBER 01: James Banks III #1 of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets reacts after a basket against the St. John's Red Storm during the first half of the HoopHall Miami Invitational at American Airlines Arena on December 1, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - DECEMBER 01: James Banks III #1 of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets reacts after a basket against the St. John's Red Storm during the first half of the HoopHall Miami Invitational at American Airlines Arena on December 1, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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Heading into our 4th and final preseason position preview, we’ll look at a few key pieces of Georgia Tech’s frontcourt positions. Leading the way for the group is Senior standout, James Banks III.

#1 James Banks III:

Banks is Georgia Tech’s only real true center position player, that being said, Georgia Tech’s style of offense doesn’t necessarily run through the center, which is common amongst how college hoops teams and even the NBA teams have shifted towards. Banks is a 6-foot 10 inch senior who has contributed well for the Jackets last season. He started his college career at the University of Texas before ultimately transferring to Georgia Tech. Since then, Banks had a stellar year, especially on the defensive side of the ball last season. The Yellow Jackets will need some big plays from Banks down low for them to have any success this year.

#3 Evan Cole:

Evan Cole, a Georgia native, has been quiet for the most part so far. He contributed in both his underclassmen seasons playing extended playing time last year during his sophomore season. Although, Cole has had some serious highlight “poster-reels”, from put-back dunks to just lane driving flushes. He is a very versatile player and this year could be his standout season. In contradiction, a lot of players on Tech’s roster will be competing for time, and this position is no different. Cole will still be a vital part of Georgia Tech’s success, regardless.

#5 Moses Wright:

Arguably, Wright may be the best talent on the team. The power forward from Raleigh, N.C. had a great season last year, especially towards the end of the season. After struggling to find minutes and playing time early on, Wright established himself as a great offensive threat in the latter half of the season. Wright shoots at very high percentage as most of his shots come from deep in the post and driving towards the basket. He is the perfect frontcourt presence that the Jackets need. I look for Wright to have a really big season this year on the box scores.

Overall Grade: A-

I believe this is Georgia Tech’s strongest position, with these three key players standing out. The interchangeability amongst Wright, Cole, and Banks will be a very fun experience to watch. We should see some very intriguing plays from these three young guys. Don’t be surprised if any of these players breakout for All-ACC honors come end of the year.

Georgia Tech will travel to Raleigh, N.C., November 5th to start the season against in-conference foe, NC State. The game will be aired on the ACC Network and tip off is set to launch at 7:00 PM EST.