Drew Jackson, MBJ Elite 2027: The 6’0 guard was positively lethal from long range at Saturday, draining four threes; some off the catch, some coming off ball-screens. Jackson took care of the basketball and got the rock to the right people at the right time. He worked hard defensively to overcome his lack of size and succeeded more times than not.
Dwight Gaines, SOH Elite 2027: A 5’10 point guard from Westminster Academy in Fort Lauderdale, Gaines is coming off a very good showing for Puerto Rico at the FIBA U-16 Championships a little over a week ago. While we have seen Gaines shoot better from the perimeter in the past, he was quite successful using his speed and quickness to collapse defenses and either score at the basket or create an open shot for a teammate. He anticipates well on defense and comes up with many tips, deflections, and steals over the course of a game.
Dmitri Tatulishvilli, Team Hardwork 2027: A 6’7 forward at Ransom Everglades in Miami, Dmitri is well-versed in the fundamentals and applies them well. He has some basic post moves, a soft touch with either hand, and the ability to step aways on score from the high post and short corners. Dmitri has a solid frame but moves well for a guy his size and age. He plays physically on the defensive end and surprised a bit with some shot-blocking prowess.
“Skoot” Donald, Showtime Ballers 2027: A 6’1 guard from Tampa Catholic, Donald is a dangerous scorer. He has excellent range, a quick release, and the ability to create space with some crafty ball-handling. Donald is also a competent driver and finisher at the basket, scoring on floaters and with an array of crafty finishes in traffic. He is alert to get the ball ahead to teammates in transition as well as to open shooters when attacking the defense.
Lynven Adesa, SOH Elite 2028: A 6’0 guard from St. Andrew’s in Boca Raton, Adesa plays like he was shot out of a cannon. He pushes the pace and is relentless in driving the ball to the basket with a decent rate of success. Adesa is quite athletic, rebounds well at both ends for his size, and is a harassing defender.
Evan Graham, BBD 2028: A 6’8 post from Naples Gulf Coast, it is absolutely refreshing to see a “big” want to do “big” things such as posting up, scoring with either hand around the basket, and not float on the perimeter. Graham is still getting used to his size and will certainly become a better athlete as he physically matures. He plays hard, runs the floor, and is a physical rebounder and shot challenger on the defensive end.
R.J. Fritz, Southern Select 16U: The 6’2 guard will be at the new Morgan High School in Tampa this coming season. Fritz was a problem for individual defenders with his quick first step, solid ball skills, and ability to finish through contact in traffic. We admittedly didn’t see much in the way of a perimeter shot for him so we look forward to seeing him again to get that checked out.
Brandon Latham, Team Breakdown 16U: The 6’5 wing from Coral Springs Coral Glades flashed a lot of versatility this past weekend. He knocked down shots on both sides of the arc, finished ahead of the defense in transition, and worked the offensive glass for some easy points. We noted he defended both perimeter and post players with equal success.