Ever since the hiring of Brian Merritt as an assistant coach, Arizona State has been trending in the Crystal Ball for Thon Maker. The Sun Devils now have the lead over Kansas and Kentucky.

Merritt was the righthand man for John Lucas and an integral part of his operation. Maker and his camp have strong ties to Merritt through John Lucas Enterprises.

The skilled 7-0 power forward is ranked No. 9 in the 247Sports Composite.