Reebok Classic Breakout
Friday morning, July 11 – Sunday evening, July 13
Philadelphia, PA
Below are player evaluations on 30 of the top performers at last week’s Reebok Classic Breakout.
Over 80 mid- to high-major recruits competed in front of college coaches for three days at the Philadelphia University athletic center, making for a highly competitive environment.
Players are organized into four tiers:
• Elite (NBA Potential)
• High Major Impact
• High Major Potential
• Mid-Major Impact
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Elite (NBA Potential)
Skal Labissiere
PF, 6-11, 210, 2015
Evangelical Christian School (TN)
Kentucky and Memphis leading; others involved
A lanky 6-11 forward, Labissiere possesses elite ball handling and shooting touch for his size, the combination of which makes him a lethal stretch-forward. His skill level and polish from inside 15-feet is impeccable, as he executes with nuance and precision.
Labissiere has an effective face-up game, capable of elevating from the foul line or quickly beating his man off the dribble. He is very nimble off the ball, quickly getting to his spots and attacking the defense. Labissiere’s post-up arsenal is very basic as of right now, but to his credit, he flashed a nice right-handed hook shot in Philadelphia. If he continues to get stronger to bang in the post, Labissiere will end up as one of the most versatile big men in the class.
Labissiere is fundamentally sound and understands the nuances of the game at a fairly young age. He can gracefully shoot, pass and block shots, and is interchangeable on the front line. Skal is one of the most talented bigs in the class, able to finish with both hands at the rim but also step out and shoot it, already making him a dual threat as a screener.
Couple his polished skills inside 15 feet with a high basketball IQ, and Labissiere should make an immediate impact in college, whether at Memphis or Kentucky.
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Dwayne Bacon
SG/SF, 6-6, 195, 2015
Oak Hill Academy (VA)
Considering UConn, Memphis, Baylor, UCLA and others
After turning heads with several breakout performances in the spring, Bacon continued to showcase his elite scoring instincts in Philadelphia. Standing at 6-6 with very long arms, Bacon has great size for a wing. And he has a killer mentality.
Equipped with next-level athleticism and body control, and with a proven ability to convert difficult jump shots off the bounce, Bacon’s offensive ceiling appears to be very high. He poured in a tournament-high 43 points on Sunday, scoring from all three levels with ease.
Offensively, he has good command of the ball, and can rise up from distance at moments notice. Bacon makes contested perimeter shots with ease, and finishes above the rim in transition. He’s a scoring wing who can seemingly score on demand. It’s rare for a high schooler to consistently knock down mid-range jumpers, as well as deep 3-pointers. Bacon does both extremely well.
Defensively, Bacon occasionally has some hiccups, but overall he has the size and length to guard both SGs and SFs. He’s not a lockdown defender, per se, but he’s definitely serviceable.
Bacon must round out his game, and learn to contribute in other facets besides scoring—i.e. becoming a more assertive rebounder, improving his passing, slashing off the ball—but his scoring ability and athleticism have made him a household name. He ranks up there with Malik Newman as the best scoring wing in the class.
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Diamond Stone
C, 6-10, 250, 2015
Dominican HS (WI)
Considering UConn, Arizona, Duke, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky and others; Packaged deal with Malik Newman
Considered a top-5 recruit by all the major scouting services, Stone had a very disappointing showing in Philadelphia. Over the course of four games, Stone was consistently inconsistent. He recorded: zero points and 2 rebounds in a much-anticipated matchup vs. Elijah Thomas; 8 points and 3 rebounds; 19 points and 4 rebounds; and 12 points and 3 rebounds. Not bad, but he didn’t blow anybody away.
It’s only one weekend, though.
Stone would occasionally flash his potential, via a dominant drop-step or hook shot in the post. But he quickly followed a “good” possession with several “bad” ones. Stone would score with ease, then come down and get blocked, then appear disinterested on the defensive end.
The individual facets of his game are apparent—very skilled in the post at 250 pounds, size and strength to dominate the boards, and a developing elbow jumper—but Stone must learn how to bring it all together. If he can learn to summon the individual aspects of his game at the appropriate time, Jones could one day validate his ranking.
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Derrick Jones
SF, 6-7, 180, 2015
Archbishop Carroll (PA)
Considering UConn, Kentucky, Kansas, Seton Hall, Syracuse and others
The days of Jones flying under the radar are over. Instead, his athletic exploits have him flying above the rim and onto the national scene. The 6-7 lefty is an NBA-level athlete right now, with a lethal second jump and dynamite explosiveness.
Jones oozes potential, particularly defensively, where his length, agility and athleticism make him a defensive stopper on the wing. He shows lateral quickness to keep his man in front of him, and has the length to disrupt passing lanes. Jones easily converts turnovers into transition buckets due to his athletic gifts.
Offensively, he’s a bullet in transition, and is a near-automatic finisher. In the half court, though, Jones’ inconsistent jumper is holding him back. If he can catch-and-shoot from the wing with more consistency, Jones will become a triple threat player: shooting, transition, and defense.
When his jumper is clicking, Jones can attack close-outs and use his athleticism and body control to finish above the defense. In one game this weekend, Jones scored 31 points on 12/15 shooting, continuing to showcase progress in his offensive arsenal.
Overall, Jones’ ceiling is as high as any wing in the class. His athleticism, slashing ability, and transition prowess are already second to none. But he must improve his ball handling and jump shot (big “ifs”) to become a top-15 player in the class.
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Elijah Thomas
PF/C, 6-9, 230, 2015
Lancaster (TX)
Considering Illinois, Texas, SMU, Oklahoma State and others
At 6-9, 250 pounds, Thomas is a physical specimen at the high school level. He has a “wide trunk” to carve out space in the post, with strong hands to receive an entry pass and polished touch to finish at the cup. He is automatic inside 10 feet, and displays excellent poise from the low post, not rushing or panicking when defenders collapse on him.
Thomas can easily score with his back to the basket, showcasing a polished hook shot over either shoulder. But he’s also polishing the ancillary aspects of his game, namely, passing out of the low post and establishing position on the glass.
Thomas is a skilled “bully” in the low post. That being said, at only 6-9 and with average athleticism, Thomas probably won’t be able to dominate the low post in college. He must extend his game beyond 10 feet.
But even if he doesn’t get taller or extend his range, Thomas’ passing/rebounding/court sense makes him a terrific prospect in the Glen Davis/DeJuan Blair mold.
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High Major Impact
Horace Spencer
PF, 6-9, 2015, 2015
Findlay Prep (NV)
Considering Georgia, Iowa, Seton Hall, West Virginia and others
Spencer was the most competitive player at event, playing with a high motor and energy to spare. He’s a big-shouldered forward who excels in transition, covering tremendous court space with every step and looking to punish defenders at the rim.
Offensively, Spencer is most effective scoring in open space. He’s also a beast on the glass, relentless in his pursuit of the basketball. Spencer reminds me of a young Kenneth Faried—hardly any offensive “skill”, in terms of shooting or passing or creating offense. But he runs the floor well, and punishes opponents at the basket.
Defensively, though, is where Spencer really cuts his teeth. He’s strong enough to guard PFs in the post, and quick enough to contain SFs on the wing. He has the quickness/strength/leaping ability to block 5 shots and grab 15 rebounds every game.
Spencer is already a high-major player, but his lack of offensive skill is holding him back. He would struggle to contribute within a structured offensive. But if his offense ever comes along, Spencer could one day become elite.
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Corey Sanders
PG, 6-2, 170, 2015
IMG Academy (FL)
Considering UNLV, LSU, Auburn, Memphis, Xavier and others
Sanders is a 6-1 attacking point guard who plays running downhill and keeps his head on a swivel. He plays with a low center of gravity—almost like a running back navigating through the line of scrimmage—and uses his speed and athleticism to get into the lane and take off. Sanders’ first instinct is to penetrate, where he can finish at the cup, or dish to a teammate.
Sanders is also a feisty defender, able to pick up his man at the point of attack and set the tone for his team. Overall, he’s an athletic two-way point guard who plays much bigger than his size. I wouldn’t be surprised if he made a huge impact at the college level.
The next step for Sanders is developing a jump shot to extend his game outside of the painted area. But Sanders is already the ultimate competitor, equipped with elite speed and athleticism for a point guard.
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Donovan Mitchell
G, 6-3, 185, 2015
Brewster Academy (NH)
Considering Boston College, Providence, Cincinnati, UConn, Florida and others
Mitchell is a powerful lead guard who wants to bully his way to the basket. If he can get into the paint, Mitchell can absorb contact and finish at the rim. He physically overpowers his high school counterparts, and plays with a refreshing “football mentality.”
The next step for Mitchell is developing his point guard skills, because he may be undersized to exclusively play SG at 6-3. If he can develop his court vision and feel for the game, he could be a high-impact scoring guard at the next level.
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Danjel Purifoy
SF, 6-6, 195, 2015
Hargrave Military Academy (VA)
Considering Alabama, Michigan State, Clemson, Arkansas and others
Purifoy is a combo forward who impacts the game with his length, motor and athleticism. He is an excellent off-ball cutter, as he can receive the ball in stride and finish through contact. He’s a high-energy wing who accumulates steals and rebounds, as well as free throws due to his slashing ability. He plays with constant activity defensively, and has the athleticism to get noticed every time he’s on the floor.
If Purifoy can develop some semblance of an offensive game, he has all the tools (length, athleticism, competitiveness) to be a high-impact wing at the next level.
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Jawun Evans
PG, 6-0, 180, 2015
Kimball HS (TX)
Considering Cincinnati, Clemson, Texas, USC and others
Evans is a lightning-quick guard with exceptional ball-handling ability. He is another “attacking” guard with speed and aggression. He does a great job of applying pressure, both offensively and defensively, and just sets the tone as a point guard.
Evans has mastered his ball handling, and therefore the game comes to him easily. He doesn’t spend time worrying about defensive pressure; instead, he can penetrate at will and focusing on making winning plays. The next step is learning to look for his own shot, something he will have to do at the next level.
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PJ Dozier
SG, 6-5, 180, 2015
Spring Valley (SC)
Considering Kansas, NC State, Indiana, South Carolina and others
Dozier had a poor showing in Philadelphia, but I can see why people are intrigued. He’s a big 6-5 combo guard who can handle the ball and knock down pull-up jumpers. Great scoring instincts offensively, with the size to shoot over the defense. Defensively, he uses his length to guard multiple positions and envelop opposing players. He’s unpolished in terms of consistency and putting it all together, but Dozier’s upside as a scoring combo-guard who takes pride defensively is valuable in the eyes of many college coaches. Dozier’s next step is channeling his scoring instincts to contribute within the context of the offense, instead of just jacking up shots.
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High Major Potential
Nate Grimes
SF, 6-7, 210, 2015
Desert Pines (NV)
Considering Boise State, New Mexico, Marquette, UMass and others
Grimes is a lanky defender who excels in the open floor. He’s very raw and unpolished in terms of fundamentals, especially offensively, where he struggles to maintain his dribble let alone put together an attacking move. He’s a work in progress right now, but he has potential due to his athleticism length and motor.
As currently constructed, Grimes could make an impact defensively and on the glass—but not much more. He must improve offensively.
The next step is to put together some semblance of an offensive game, starting with maintaining a controlled dribble.
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Jean Marc Christ Koumadje
C, 7-3, 200, 2015
Montverde Academy (FL)
Considering UCLA, UConn, Louisville, Washington and others
18 months ago Koumadje was in Senegal, having never picked up a basketball. Now, he’s a rising senior at Montverde Academy (FL), with scholarship offers being extended every time he exits a gymnasium.
A slender 7-3 center via the African nation of Chad, Koumadje is basically all potential right now, but he has some tools to work with. He’s mobile for a center, and possesses strong hands, giving him the ability to finish drop-off passes and also accumulate rebounds. He’s a good athlete who can block shots, and is clearly just scratching the surface of his potential.
After his weekend in Philly, UConn, Louisville and Washington offered him a scholarship on the spot. He’s a major project as of right now, but the speed, size, and mobility are apparent.
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Justin Simon
SG, 6-5, 185, 2015
Temecula Valley (CA)
Committed to Arizona
Simon is a big combo guard who can both initiate and facilitate offense. He’s most effective playing with the ball in his hands, where he can penetrate the lane and use his playmaking instincts to finish at the cup or dish it off to an open teammate. He’s aggressive and plays with a high IQ.
His “problem”—like most of his peers—is that Simon lacks consistency on his jump shot. He can get into the paint, and really understands how to utilize the pick-and-roll, but he doesn’t have range beyond 15 feet right now. He must shore up his jump shot to distinguish himself from other scoring guards.
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Sylvester Ogbonda
F/C, 6-10, 210, 2015
National Christian Academy (MD)
Considering Maryland, St. John’s, Georgetown and others
Ogbonda is a very agile big man, with excellent quickness to race up and down the floor and finish at the basket. He’s a major mismatch in transition, and should excel in an up-tempo system. He can induce fatigue on the opposition simply by running up and down he floor.
In the half court, Ogbonda displayed flashes of a post game, including a power drop-step and also hook shots over either shoulder.
Overall: great mobility in transition, and a developing back to the basket game offensively.
However, Ogbonda often disappears from games for long stretches of time. He can really make an impact when he’s involved in the game, but conversely, he can appear aloof and even disinterested. The key for him is to improve his focus, so he can establish a foundation to improve on.
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Malik Ellison
G/F, 6-5, 160, 2015
Life Center (NJ)
Considering Temple, Penn State, St. Joe’s and others
Ellison is a 6-5 wing whose primary skill is the ability to catch-and-shoot from the wing. He establishes a fundamentally sound triple-threat position, able to size up the defender and rise up with good mechanics. He can also trail for transition 3-pointers.
Ellison didn’t appear to be an elite athlete, or to possess elite quickness, so he should continue to polish his jump shot in hopes of becoming a knockdown 3-point shooter.
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Mike Watkins
PF, 6-8, 225, 2015
Math, Civics and Sciences Center (PA)
Committed to Penn State
Watkins was one of the most competitive players at the camp, with a pit bull mentality and the strength to back it up. He has broad shoulders at 225 pounds, capable of backing his man down in the paint and also crashing the boards.
Watkins is physical and fearless. He’s not scared of anybody, and has the athleticism and strength to really make an impact on both ends of the floor. If he continues to develop offensively from the mid-to-low post area, Watkins could make major noise at Penn State.
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Markis McDuffie
SG, 6-7, 185, 2015
St. Anthony (NJ)
Considering Rutgers, Boston College, VCU and others
McDuffie is a tall and long athlete with a deep shooting stroke. He has “loose limbs,” almost like he floats up and down the floor with the ability to pull-up at any point. McDuffie is a rhythm player who can heat up in a hurry, and his shooting range is limitless. He made at least three 3-pointers in three separate games this weekend.
His length is also a boon defensively, where he can envelop his man and contest shots. He fits in with the up-tempo, long-limed, “VCU Havoc” style of play.
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Elijah Cain
G, 6-5, 160, 2015
Saint Benedict’s Prep (NJ)
Considering George Mason, Rider, Drexel, Binghamton and others
Cain has very good size for a guard, but he’s a bit all over the place right now. He can attack the basket in a straight-line fashion—where he displays good body control and acrobatics to finish—but he often has tunnel vision, forcing drives at the expense of offensive cohesion.
Cain is a good finisher, but he must learn to value every possession. If he can improve his decision making—i.e. reversing the ball, letting the offense come to him, taking what the defense gives instead of putting his head down and driving—he could utilize his size advantage and become a deadly scoring guard.
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Chris Harris
C, 6-10, 200, 2015
Madison HS (TX)
Committed to Texas A&M
The lefty is very mobile and agile, able to catch and finish in the open floor, as well as block shots defensively. He’s automatic from 8 feet and in, and if you pit him against smaller players, Harris has the bounce to finish over the top.
But Harris is very raw offensively. He’s not an effective low post scorer, lacking back-to-the-basket moves, and he doesn’t have range. Upon receiving an entry pass, Harris will often just dish it back out. Harris must get stronger to battle on the boards, and to start establishing position down low. His potential is apparent, but his current skill level won’t suffice.
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Ahmad “JR” Gilbert
SG, 6-5, 200, 2015
Constitution (PA)
Considering St. Joe’s, Temple, Monmouth, Rutgers and others
Gilbert really helped himself in Philadelphia. The relatively unknown local prospect was consistently effective, lending insight into what type of player he’s becoming.
At 6-5, Gilbert is a smooth lefty who covers a lot of ground with each step. He has a very slow release on his jumper right now, but he’s excellent in transition, displays body control en route to the basket, and is a tough competitor. Gilbert was refreshingly angry with himself on numerous occasions, really trying to lock in and be productive.
Defensively, he can guard multiple positions with his size/length/foot speed, and he applies constant pressure.
He’s a smooth lefty swingman who went from unknown to mid-to-high major prospect in a matter of hours. He’s too raw as currently constructed, but if his jumper comes along, he could be a jack-of-all-trades swingman at the next level.
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Mid-Major Impact
Sammy Barnes-Thompkins
PG, 6-3, 175, 2015
Mountain View (AZ)
Considering San Jose State, Tulsa, Wichita State and others
Thompkins’ defense stood out in Philly, doing a good job of applying pressure at the point of attack all weekend. He has good size for a point guard, and can stop the ball handler. However, offensively he didn’t showcase much. Thompkins picked up his handle in the face of pressure, didn’t make many shots, and overall didn’t stand out. Not bad, but not particularly good.
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GodsPower Ogide
C, 6-10, 265, 2015
Bishop Kearney (NY)
Considering Temple, Buffalo and others
Ogide is a massive 6-10, 265-pound post presence. He uses his body well, and coupled with strong hands, he finishes at the rim with ease.
He lacks explosiveness, but his size and strength could be a valuable addition to any team in need of a big. He held his own vs. top-5 recruit Diamond Stone, swatting a few lazy attempts by Stone.
Ogide is an under-the-radar center, but if he stays consistent, his immense size and scoring punch at the rim could eventually garner high-major interest.
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Marquez Letcher
SF, 6-6, 170, 2015
Genesis Academy (TX)
Considering Rice, Houston, Georgia, Auburn and others
Letcher is a very long and thin swingman, who excels in transition and also slashing off the ball. He has a quick first step to beat his man off the dribble, and can explode through open lanes.
However, he must get stronger, as he struggles to get through any defensive resistance. Letcher also doesn’t have much of a “skill set.” He simply runs the floor looking for transition opportunities. He must develop an offensive game, or else he will join the endless carousel of athletic-but-not-skilled wings.
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John Crosby
G, 6-2, 165, 2015
Baltimore Poly (MD)
Considering George Mason, George Washington, FGCU and others
One of the more unheralded players entering the weekend, Crosby did an excellent job running the show for Team Reignman. The 6-2 guard commanded the pace and tempo of the offense, using a sound handle to maneuver his way through the lane and deliver on-the-money passes in tight spaces. In five games, Crosby averaged a solid 4.8 assists, and showed he can get others involved.
However, at only 6-2 and lacking elite quickness or athleticism, Crosby doesn’t really stand out in any particular area. He’s a savvy point guard, but will need to show more than just 4.8 assists per game to compete at the high major level; he averaged 3 points per game, and didn’t have much of a rhythm to his approach. Right now he projects as a very good mid-major floor general.
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Matt Milon
PG, 6-3, 180, 2015
Oviedo HS (FL)
Considering Creighton, George Mason, Cal Irvine and others
Milon is a muscular lefty point guard, who is most comfortable operating out of the pick-and-roll. He has an accurate 3-point jumper, confident to fire away from deep. He made several shots, both in catch-and-shoot and off-the-bounce situations.
However, he must improve two critical aspects of his game: (i) his right hand, and (ii) his point guard skills. Lacking quickness or athleticism, Milon will struggle to score off the bounce in college. He needs to perfect the fundamentals—dribbling and passing—in order to become a full-time PG. Right now he just looks for the nearest open 3-pointer, instead of creating shots for his teammates.
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Samir Doughty
G, 6-3, 180, 2015
Math, Civics and Sciences Center (PA)
Considering George Mason, Western Kentucky, St. Joe’s, Rhode Island and others
Doughty is another long-limbed scoring guard. He possesses strong scoring instincts, consistently creating off the bounce. He can attack the rim using his size and quickness, or stop-and-rise for a mid-range jumper.
He’s a good scorer, but at only 6-3, Doughty must improve his point guard skills for the next level. If he wants to earn minutes in college, he must improve his court vision, willingness to move the ball, and ability to play off the ball.
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Brady Twombly
SG, 6-5, 200, 2015
La Costa Canyon (HS)
Considering Loyola Marymount, Manhattan and others
Twombly is a bulky shooting guard who competes defensively and can knock down open jumpers. He doesn’t have the physical attributes (athleticism, speed, etc) to compete at the high major level, but he’s a fierce competitor on both ends of the floor, and is a catch-and-shoot threat from the wing.
Twombly is best suited at the mid-major level, where he could carve out a nice college career. He will infuse energy into his team, defend every possession, and make open 3-pointers.
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CJ Keyser
PG, 6-3, 180, 2015
Patterson Mill (MD)
Considering Boston, Fordham, Rhode Island, St. Joe’s, Western Kentucky and others
Keyser is bouncy lead guard who makes his impact via attacking the basket. His athletic prowess stands out.
However, he must develop a foundation for his game, and then use athleticism to compliment actual skills. Right now he wants to speed up the game and force transition opportunities, often driving into nowhere and appearing lost.
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Hassan Thomas
F, 6-7, 200, 2015
Woodrow Wilson HS (TX)
Considering TCU, UTEP, Sam Houston State and others
Thomas looks the part of a long and athletic swingman with a ton of upside. But right now he’s more project than prospect.
Lacking ball handling and shooting ability, Thomas is the power forward at Woodrow Wilson HS, and therefore contributes via hustle plays and tip-ins on the low block. He’s an excellent jumper, but at only 6-7, he must extend his game.
He needs to develop a more controlled dribble, and some semblance of a jump shot in order to play on the wing. Right now he has neither. Thomas could emerge from the shadows in a couple of years, as an athletic swingman who defends, rebounds, and attacks the basket. But he has a long way to go.
Elite (NBA Potential)
Skal Labissiere
PF, 6-11, 210, 2015
Evangelical Christian School (TN)
Kentucky and Memphis leading; others involved
A lanky 6-11 forward, Labissiere possesses elite ball handling and shooting touch for his size, the combination of which makes him a lethal stretch-forward. His skill level and polish from inside 15-feet is impeccable, as he executes with nuance and precision.
Labissiere has an effective face-up game, capable of elevating from the foul line or quickly beating his man off the dribble. He is very nimble off the ball, quickly getting to his spots and attacking the defense. Labissiere’s post-up arsenal is very basic as of right now, but to his credit, he flashed a nice right-handed hook shot in Philadelphia. If he continues to get stronger to bang in the post, Labissiere will end up as one of the most versatile big men in the class.
Labissiere is fundamentally sound and understands the nuances of the game at a fairly young age. He can gracefully shoot, pass and block shots, and is interchangeable on the front line. Skal is one of the most talented bigs in the class, able to finish with both hands at the rim but also step out and shoot it, already making him a dual threat as a screener.
Couple his polished skills inside 15 feet with a high basketball IQ, and Labissiere should make an immediate impact in college, whether at Memphis or Kentucky.
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Dwayne Bacon
SG/SF, 6-6, 195, 2015
Oak Hill Academy (VA)
Considering UConn, Memphis, Baylor, UCLA and others
After turning heads with several breakout performances in the spring, Bacon continued to showcase his elite scoring instincts in Philadelphia. Standing at 6-6 with very long arms, Bacon has great size for a wing. And he has a killer mentality.
Equipped with next-level athleticism and body control, and with a proven ability to convert difficult jump shots off the bounce, Bacon’s offensive ceiling appears to be very high. He poured in a tournament-high 43 points on Sunday, scoring from all three levels with ease.
Offensively, he has good command of the ball, and can rise up from distance at moments notice. Bacon makes contested perimeter shots with ease, and finishes above the rim in transition. He’s a scoring wing who can seemingly score on demand. It’s rare for a high schooler to consistently knock down mid-range jumpers, as well as deep 3-pointers. Bacon does both extremely well.
Defensively, Bacon occasionally has some hiccups, but overall he has the size and length to guard both SGs and SFs. He’s not a lockdown defender, per se, but he’s definitely serviceable.
Bacon must round out his game, and learn to contribute in other facets besides scoring—i.e. becoming a more assertive rebounder, improving his passing, slashing off the ball—but his scoring ability and athleticism have made him a household name. He ranks up there with Malik Newman as the best scoring wing in the class.
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Diamond Stone
C, 6-10, 250, 2015
Dominican HS (WI)
Considering UConn, Arizona, Duke, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky and others; Packaged deal with Malik Newman
Considered a top-5 recruit by all the major scouting services, Stone had a very disappointing showing in Philadelphia. Over the course of four games, Stone was consistently inconsistent. He recorded: zero points and 2 rebounds in a much-anticipated matchup vs. Elijah Thomas; 8 points and 3 rebounds; 19 points and 4 rebounds; and 12 points and 3 rebounds. Not bad, but he didn’t blow anybody away.
It’s only one weekend, though.
Stone would occasionally flash his potential, via a dominant drop-step or hook shot in the post. But he quickly followed a “good” possession with several “bad” ones. Stone would score with ease, then come down and get blocked, then appear disinterested on the defensive end.
The individual facets of his game are apparent—very skilled in the post at 250 pounds, size and strength to dominate the boards, and a developing elbow jumper—but Stone must learn how to bring it all together. If he can learn to summon the individual aspects of his game at the appropriate time, Jones could one day validate his ranking.
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Derrick Jones
SF, 6-7, 180, 2015
Archbishop Carroll (PA)
Considering UConn, Kentucky, Kansas, Seton Hall, Syracuse and others
The days of Jones flying under the radar are over. Instead, his athletic exploits have him flying above the rim and onto the national scene. The 6-7 lefty is an NBA-level athlete right now, with a lethal second jump and dynamite explosiveness.
Jones oozes potential, particularly defensively, where his length, agility and athleticism make him a defensive stopper on the wing. He shows lateral quickness to keep his man in front of him, and has the length to disrupt passing lanes. Jones easily converts turnovers into transition buckets due to his athletic gifts.
Offensively, he’s a bullet in transition, and is a near-automatic finisher. In the half court, though, Jones’ inconsistent jumper is holding him back. If he can catch-and-shoot from the wing with more consistency, Jones will become a triple threat player: shooting, transition, and defense.
When his jumper is clicking, Jones can attack close-outs and use his athleticism and body control to finish above the defense. In one game this weekend, Jones scored 31 points on 12/15 shooting, continuing to showcase progress in his offensive arsenal.
Overall, Jones’ ceiling is as high as any wing in the class. His athleticism, slashing ability, and transition prowess are already second to none. But he must improve his ball handling and jump shot (big “ifs”) to become a top-15 player in the class.
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Elijah Thomas
PF/C, 6-9, 230, 2015
Lancaster (TX)
Considering Illinois, Texas, SMU, Oklahoma State and others
At 6-9, 250 pounds, Thomas is a physical specimen at the high school level. He has a “wide trunk” to carve out space in the post, with strong hands to receive an entry pass and polished touch to finish at the cup. He is automatic inside 10 feet, and displays excellent poise from the low post, not rushing or panicking when defenders collapse on him.
Thomas can easily score with his back to the basket, showcasing a polished hook shot over either shoulder. But he’s also polishing the ancillary aspects of his game, namely, passing out of the low post and establishing position on the glass.
Thomas is a skilled “bully” in the low post. That being said, at only 6-9 and with average athleticism, Thomas probably won’t be able to dominate the low post in college. He must extend his game beyond 10 feet.
But even if he doesn’t get taller or extend his range, Thomas’ passing/rebounding/court sense makes him a terrific prospect in the Glen Davis/DeJuan Blair mold.
High Major Impact
Horace Spencer
PF, 6-9, 2015, 2015
Findlay Prep (NV)
Considering Georgia, Iowa, Seton Hall, West Virginia and others
Spencer was the most competitive player at event, playing with a high motor and energy to spare. He’s a big-shouldered forward who excels in transition, covering tremendous court space with every step and looking to punish defenders at the rim.
Offensively, Spencer is most effective scoring in open space. He’s also a beast on the glass, relentless in his pursuit of the basketball. Spencer reminds me of a young Kenneth Faried—hardly any offensive “skill”, in terms of shooting or passing or creating offense. But he runs the floor well, and punishes opponents at the basket.
Defensively, though, is where Spencer really cuts his teeth. He’s strong enough to guard PFs in the post, and quick enough to contain SFs on the wing. He has the quickness/strength/leaping ability to block 5 shots and grab 15 rebounds every game.
Spencer is already a high-major player, but his lack of offensive skill is holding him back. He would struggle to contribute within a structured offensive. But if his offense ever comes along, Spencer could one day become elite.
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Corey Sanders
PG, 6-2, 170, 2015
IMG Academy (FL)
Considering UNLV, LSU, Auburn, Memphis, Xavier and others
Sanders is a 6-1 attacking point guard who plays running downhill and keeps his head on a swivel. He plays with a low center of gravity—almost like a running back navigating through the line of scrimmage—and uses his speed and athleticism to get into the lane and take off. Sanders’ first instinct is to penetrate, where he can finish at the cup, or dish to a teammate.
Sanders is also a feisty defender, able to pick up his man at the point of attack and set the tone for his team. Overall, he’s an athletic two-way point guard who plays much bigger than his size. I wouldn’t be surprised if he made a huge impact at the college level.
The next step for Sanders is developing a jump shot to extend his game outside of the painted area. But Sanders is already the ultimate competitor, equipped with elite speed and athleticism for a point guard.
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Donovan Mitchell
G, 6-3, 185, 2015
Brewster Academy (NH)
Considering Boston College, Providence, Cincinnati, UConn, Florida and others
Mitchell is a powerful lead guard who wants to bully his way to the basket. If he can get into the paint, Mitchell can absorb contact and finish at the rim. He physically overpowers his high school counterparts, and plays with a refreshing “football mentality.”
The next step for Mitchell is developing his point guard skills, because he may be undersized to exclusively play SG at 6-3. If he can develop his court vision and feel for the game, he could be a high-impact scoring guard at the next level.
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Danjel Purifoy
SF, 6-6, 195, 2015
Hargrave Military Academy (VA)
Considering Alabama, Michigan State, Clemson, Arkansas and others
Purifoy is a combo forward who impacts the game with his length, motor and athleticism. He is an excellent off-ball cutter, as he can receive the ball in stride and finish through contact. He’s a high-energy wing who accumulates steals and rebounds, as well as free throws due to his slashing ability. He plays with constant activity defensively, and has the athleticism to get noticed every time he’s on the floor.
If Purifoy can develop some semblance of an offensive game, he has all the tools (length, athleticism, competitiveness) to be a high-impact wing at the next level.
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Jawun Evans
PG, 6-0, 180, 2015
Kimball HS (TX)
Considering Cincinnati, Clemson, Texas, USC and others
Evans is a lightning-quick guard with exceptional ball-handling ability. He is another “attacking” guard with speed and aggression. He does a great job of applying pressure, both offensively and defensively, and just sets the tone as a point guard.
Evans has mastered his ball handling, and therefore the game comes to him easily. He doesn’t spend time worrying about defensive pressure; instead, he can penetrate at will and focusing on making winning plays. The next step is learning to look for his own shot, something he will have to do at the next level.
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PJ Dozier
SG, 6-5, 180, 2015
Spring Valley (SC)
Considering Kansas, NC State, Indiana, South Carolina and others
Dozier had a poor showing in Philadelphia, but I can see why people are intrigued. He’s a big 6-5 combo guard who can handle the ball and knock down pull-up jumpers. Great scoring instincts offensively, with the size to shoot over the defense. Defensively, he uses his length to guard multiple positions and envelop opposing players. He’s unpolished in terms of consistency and putting it all together, but Dozier’s upside as a scoring combo-guard who takes pride defensively is valuable in the eyes of many college coaches. Dozier’s next step is channeling his scoring instincts to contribute within the context of the offense, instead of just jacking up shots.
High Major Potential
Nate Grimes
SF, 6-7, 210, 2015
Desert Pines (NV)
Considering Boise State, New Mexico, Marquette, UMass and others
Grimes is a lanky defender who excels in the open floor. He’s very raw and unpolished in terms of fundamentals, especially offensively, where he struggles to maintain his dribble let alone put together an attacking move. He’s a work in progress right now, but he has potential due to his athleticism length and motor.
As currently constructed, Grimes could make an impact defensively and on the glass—but not much more. He must improve offensively.
The next step is to put together some semblance of an offensive game, starting with maintaining a controlled dribble.
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Jean Marc Christ Koumadje
C, 7-3, 200, 2015
Montverde Academy (FL)
Considering UCLA, UConn, Louisville, Washington and others
18 months ago Koumadje was in Senegal, having never picked up a basketball. Now, he’s a rising senior at Montverde Academy (FL), with scholarship offers being extended every time he exits a gymnasium.
A slender 7-3 center via the African nation of Chad, Koumadje is basically all potential right now, but he has some tools to work with. He’s mobile for a center, and possesses strong hands, giving him the ability to finish drop-off passes and also accumulate rebounds. He’s a good athlete who can block shots, and is clearly just scratching the surface of his potential.
After his weekend in Philly, UConn, Louisville and Washington offered him a scholarship on the spot. He’s a major project as of right now, but the speed, size, and mobility are apparent.
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Justin Simon
SG, 6-5, 185, 2015
Temecula Valley (CA)
Committed to Arizona
Simon is a big combo guard who can both initiate and facilitate offense. He’s most effective playing with the ball in his hands, where he can penetrate the lane and use his playmaking instincts to finish at the cup or dish it off to an open teammate. He’s aggressive and plays with a high IQ.
His “problem”—like most of his peers—is that Simon lacks consistency on his jump shot. He can get into the paint, and really understands how to utilize the pick-and-roll, but he doesn’t have range beyond 15 feet right now. He must shore up his jump shot to distinguish himself from other scoring guards.
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Sylvester Ogbonda
F/C, 6-10, 210, 2015
National Christian Academy (MD)
Considering Maryland, St. John’s, Georgetown and others
Ogbonda is a very agile big man, with excellent quickness to race up and down the floor and finish at the basket. He’s a major mismatch in transition, and should excel in an up-tempo system. He can induce fatigue on the opposition simply by running up and down he floor.
In the half court, Ogbonda displayed flashes of a post game, including a power drop-step and also hook shots over either shoulder.
Overall: great mobility in transition, and a developing back to the basket game offensively.
However, Ogbonda often disappears from games for long stretches of time. He can really make an impact when he’s involved in the game, but conversely, he can appear aloof and even disinterested. The key for him is to improve his focus, so he can establish a foundation to improve on.
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Malik Ellison
G/F, 6-5, 160, 2015
Life Center (NJ)
Considering Temple, Penn State, St. Joe’s and others
Ellison is a 6-5 wing whose primary skill is the ability to catch-and-shoot from the wing. He establishes a fundamentally sound triple-threat position, able to size up the defender and rise up with good mechanics. He can also trail for transition 3-pointers.
Ellison didn’t appear to be an elite athlete, or to possess elite quickness, so he should continue to polish his jump shot in hopes of becoming a knockdown 3-point shooter.
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Mike Watkins
PF, 6-8, 225, 2015
Math, Civics and Sciences Center (PA)
Committed to Penn State
Watkins was one of the most competitive players at the camp, with a pit bull mentality and the strength to back it up. He has broad shoulders at 225 pounds, capable of backing his man down in the paint and also crashing the boards.
Watkins is physical and fearless. He’s not scared of anybody, and has the athleticism and strength to really make an impact on both ends of the floor. If he continues to develop offensively from the mid-to-low post area, Watkins could make major noise at Penn State.
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Markis McDuffie
SG, 6-7, 185, 2015
St. Anthony (NJ)
Considering Rutgers, Boston College, VCU and others
McDuffie is a tall and long athlete with a deep shooting stroke. He has “loose limbs,” almost like he floats up and down the floor with the ability to pull-up at any point. McDuffie is a rhythm player who can heat up in a hurry, and his shooting range is limitless. He made at least three 3-pointers in three separate games this weekend.
His length is also a boon defensively, where he can envelop his man and contest shots. He fits in with the up-tempo, long-limed, “VCU Havoc” style of play.
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Elijah Cain
G, 6-5, 160, 2015
Saint Benedict’s Prep (NJ)
Considering George Mason, Rider, Drexel, Binghamton and others
Cain has very good size for a guard, but he’s a bit all over the place right now. He can attack the basket in a straight-line fashion—where he displays good body control and acrobatics to finish—but he often has tunnel vision, forcing drives at the expense of offensive cohesion.
Cain is a good finisher, but he must learn to value every possession. If he can improve his decision making—i.e. reversing the ball, letting the offense come to him, taking what the defense gives instead of putting his head down and driving—he could utilize his size advantage and become a deadly scoring guard.
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Chris Harris
C, 6-10, 200, 2015
Madison HS (TX)
Committed to Texas A&M
The lefty is very mobile and agile, able to catch and finish in the open floor, as well as block shots defensively. He’s automatic from 8 feet and in, and if you pit him against smaller players, Harris has the bounce to finish over the top.
But Harris is very raw offensively. He’s not an effective low post scorer, lacking back-to-the-basket moves, and he doesn’t have range. Upon receiving an entry pass, Harris will often just dish it back out. Harris must get stronger to battle on the boards, and to start establishing position down low. His potential is apparent, but his current skill level won’t suffice.
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Ahmad “JR” Gilbert
SG, 6-5, 200, 2015
Constitution (PA)
Considering St. Joe’s, Temple, Monmouth, Rutgers and others
Gilbert really helped himself in Philadelphia. The relatively unknown local prospect was consistently effective, lending insight into what type of player he’s becoming.
At 6-5, Gilbert is a smooth lefty who covers a lot of ground with each step. He has a very slow release on his jumper right now, but he’s excellent in transition, displays body control en route to the basket, and is a tough competitor. Gilbert was refreshingly angry with himself on numerous occasions, really trying to lock in and be productive.
Defensively, he can guard multiple positions with his size/length/foot speed, and he applies constant pressure.
He’s a smooth lefty swingman who went from unknown to mid-to-high major prospect in a matter of hours. He’s too raw as currently constructed, but if his jumper comes along, he could be a jack-of-all-trades swingman at the next level.
Mid-Major Impact
Sammy Barnes-Thompkins
PG, 6-3, 175, 2015
Mountain View (AZ)
Considering San Jose State, Tulsa, Wichita State and others
Thompkins’ defense stood out in Philly, doing a good job of applying pressure at the point of attack all weekend. He has good size for a point guard, and can stop the ball handler. However, offensively he didn’t showcase much. Thompkins picked up his handle in the face of pressure, didn’t make many shots, and overall didn’t stand out. Not bad, but not particularly good.
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GodsPower Ogide
C, 6-10, 265, 2015
Bishop Kearney (NY)
Considering Temple, Buffalo and others
Ogide is a massive 6-10, 265-pound post presence. He uses his body well, and coupled with strong hands, he finishes at the rim with ease.
He lacks explosiveness, but his size and strength could be a valuable addition to any team in need of a big. He held his own vs. top-5 recruit Diamond Stone, swatting a few lazy attempts by Stone.
Ogide is an under-the-radar center, but if he stays consistent, his immense size and scoring punch at the rim could eventually garner high-major interest.
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Marquez Letcher
SF, 6-6, 170, 2015
Genesis Academy (TX)
Considering Rice, Houston, Georgia, Auburn and others
Letcher is a very long and thin swingman, who excels in transition and also slashing off the ball. He has a quick first step to beat his man off the dribble, and can explode through open lanes.
However, he must get stronger, as he struggles to get through any defensive resistance. Letcher also doesn’t have much of a “skill set.” He simply runs the floor looking for transition opportunities. He must develop an offensive game, or else he will join the endless carousel of athletic-but-not-skilled wings.
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John Crosby
G, 6-2, 165, 2015
Baltimore Poly (MD)
Considering George Mason, George Washington, FGCU and others
One of the more unheralded players entering the weekend, Crosby did an excellent job running the show for Team Reignman. The 6-2 guard commanded the pace and tempo of the offense, using a sound handle to maneuver his way through the lane and deliver on-the-money passes in tight spaces. In five games, Crosby averaged a solid 4.8 assists, and showed he can get others involved.
However, at only 6-2 and lacking elite quickness or athleticism, Crosby doesn’t really stand out in any particular area. He’s a savvy point guard, but will need to show more than just 4.8 assists per game to compete at the high major level; he averaged 3 points per game, and didn’t have much of a rhythm to his approach. Right now he projects as a very good mid-major floor general.
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Matt Milon
PG, 6-3, 180, 2015
Oviedo HS (FL)
Considering Creighton, George Mason, Cal Irvine and others
Milon is a muscular lefty point guard, who is most comfortable operating out of the pick-and-roll. He has an accurate 3-point jumper, confident to fire away from deep. He made several shots, both in catch-and-shoot and off-the-bounce situations.
However, he must improve two critical aspects of his game: (i) his right hand, and (ii) his point guard skills. Lacking quickness or athleticism, Milon will struggle to score off the bounce in college. He needs to perfect the fundamentals—dribbling and passing—in order to become a full-time PG. Right now he just looks for the nearest open 3-pointer, instead of creating shots for his teammates.
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Samir Doughty
G, 6-3, 180, 2015
Math, Civics and Sciences Center (PA)
Considering George Mason, Western Kentucky, St. Joe’s, Rhode Island and others
Doughty is another long-limbed scoring guard. He possesses strong scoring instincts, consistently creating off the bounce. He can attack the rim using his size and quickness, or stop-and-rise for a mid-range jumper.
He’s a good scorer, but at only 6-3, Doughty must improve his point guard skills for the next level. If he wants to earn minutes in college, he must improve his court vision, willingness to move the ball, and ability to play off the ball.
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Brady Twombly
SG, 6-5, 200, 2015
La Costa Canyon (HS)
Considering Loyola Marymount, Manhattan and others
Twombly is a bulky shooting guard who competes defensively and can knock down open jumpers. He doesn’t have the physical attributes (athleticism, speed, etc) to compete at the high-major level, but he’s a fierce competitor on both ends of the floor, and is a catch-and-shoot threat from the wing.
Twombly is best suited at the mid-major level, where he could carve out a nice college career. He will infuse energy into his team, defend every possession, and make open 3-pointers.
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CJ Keyser
PG, 6-3, 180, 2015
Patterson Mill (MD)
Considering Boston, Fordham, Rhode Island, St. Joe’s, Western Kentucky and others
Keyser is bouncy lead guard who makes his impact via attacking the basket. His athletic prowess stands out.
However, he must develop a foundation for his game, and then use athleticism to compliment actual skills. Right now he wants to speed up the game and force transition opportunities, often driving into nowhere and appearing lost.
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Hassan Thomas
F, 6-7, 200, 2015
Woodrow Wilson HS (TX)
Considering TCU, UTEP, Sam Houston State and others
Thomas looks the part of a long and athletic swingman with a ton of upside. But right now he’s more project than prospect.
Lacking ball handling and shooting ability, Thomas is the power forward at Woodrow Wilson HS, and therefore contributes via hustle plays and tip-ins on the low block. He’s an excellent jumper, but at only 6-7, he must extend his game.
He needs to develop a more controlled dribble, and some semblance of a jump shot in order to play on the wing. Right now he has neither. Thomas could emerge from the shadows in a couple of years, as an athletic swingman who defends, rebounds, and attacks the basket. But he has a long way to go.