Prospect Spotlight: John Hugley (2020)
Being 6’7” before your first day of high school isn’t typical. Given the rise in three-point shooting, neither is wanting to primarily stay in the low-post. John Hugley (2020), who will attend Brush High School in the fall, has an…
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Continue ReadingBeing 6’7” before your first day of high school isn’t typical. Given the rise in three-point shooting, neither is wanting to primarily stay in the low-post. John Hugley (2020), who will attend Brush High School in the fall, has an unusual understanding of his size and appears to be embracing it.
“I’m an inside player. I’m an okay defender. I get rebounds. I hustle. I can knock down the mid-range. I got good post work, and got good foot work,” Hugley said, when asked about his game.
On the court last weekend at the Adidas All In Classic in Cincinnati, he competed up an age group and still towered over defenders. Although he didn’t have many touches, it’s clear that the game comes easy to him.
When he caught the ball, Hugley wasn’t forced to do much else besides drop steps, but he executed those and converted simple buckets whenever given the opportunity.
The obvious talent and size has already warranted some college recruitment. While the center didn’t mention any specific programs, he told Prep Hoops Ohio that a few Division I schools have showed interest thus far.
So, with this much expectation already, what is Hugley working on to prepare for high school ball?
“Being in the gym every day, working hard. Keep practicing on my game. And listen to other people on what they’re telling me, because they know the game … Better foot work and knocking down the mid-range.”
Hugley, who doctors predict will grow to be 6’11”, displayed an effortless stroke from the free throw line. As his body matures, continuing to hit that free throw will likely be important, as opponents might rely on intentionally fouling to slow him down.
The center will travel with the Ohio Basketball Club to Las Vegas this coming weekend.
Going forward, Hugley will likely make a name for himself as one of the best pure post-players in Ohio. Seeing him in action against older, more experienced competition will be interesting, as most players his age don’t seem up to the task of stopping his sheer force.
If Hugley continues to develop his size and skills, it’s likely that his list of college options will include a variety of D-I programs.
photo credit: neoyouthelite.com