2018 Rankings Breakdown: Wing Forwards
Brandon Slater – 6’6 – Paul VI In limited minutes during his freshman season at Paul VI, Slater had some flashes of brilliance. At states in March, he was responsible for a clutch tip-back dunk that went viral on social…
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Continue ReadingBrandon Slater – 6’6 – Paul VI
In limited minutes during his freshman season at Paul VI, Slater had some flashes of brilliance. At states in March, he was responsible for a clutch tip-back dunk that went viral on social media. Following a very solid summer on Nike’s EYBL with Team Takeover 15’s, and some nice performances at DMV Elite 80 and UVA Elite camp, Slater earned his first two offers from Virginia Tech and the University of Southern California. The lanky, broad shouldered 6’6 wing certainly has the ideal frame for a high-major wing. For me, what stands out about Slater is his supreme confidence in his shooting stroke.
The lefty owns a quick release, and is a prolific shooter from beyond the arc. He still needs some development and can be more aggressive off the bounce, but he is a gifted athlete and an athletic finisher. His defensive potential is also very high, given his elite length and athleticism. He’s due for more minutes this season with the departure of Frank Howard to Syracuse. Look for Slater to continue to attract HM interest as he puts it all together.
Jonathan Preston – 6’4 – Thomas Edison
While we haven’t seen much of him, the initial reports about Jonathan Preston have all been promising. At the DMVelite super team showcase, Preston impressed with his active motor. He’s a skilled 6’4 wing who owns good length and versatility. While playing with DC Thunder 15’s, Preston was a defensive stopper and a primary scoring option. Look for him to continue to build off his successes this summer during his sophomore season at Edison.
Gibson Jimerson – 6’4 – Benedictine
Benedictine’s Gibson Jimerson is a well built 6’4 wing forward who can shoot the ball with great range. He’s also a very good rebounder. While playing this summer with River City Reign 15’s, he did a great job of stretching the floor and creating offense on the perimeter. He does well coming off screens, and when he’s able to get his feet set, shoots it at a high clip. He’ll need to improve his playmaking ability off the bounce, but he’s got the frame to be a versatile offensive talent. He should to continue to improve in his sophomore year with the Cadets.
Ayush Mayur – 6’5 – Rock Ridge
Initially one of the more unknown players in the state, Ayush Mayur is quietly becoming one of the classes most intriguing prospects, and a must-see player. At 6,5, Mayur is a wing who can light it up from 3 point range. He’s still improving as far as creating offense for himself, but he’s got a very good feel and usually comes up big when his team needs him. Following his freshman season, Mayur was voted to Conference 28 All-Conference 2nd-team. He averaged just under 10 ppg as a freshman. He had a promising summer with District Basketball 15’s and is poised to make the next step.
James Mitchell – 6’3 – Union
Union’s James Mitchell is a scoring wing who owns a very nice inside-out skill set. Offensively, he is comfortable backing down smaller players and finishing in the post. He owns good footwork, and has a very good feel. His passing ability is underrated. He has a great IQ and is a willing passer. He often finds his teammates when he is doubled. He is still developing his perimeter shooting touch, but is comfortable in the mid-range areas. He knows how to navigate through ball-screens and get open. He’s got good reactions to loose balls and rebounds, and is a quick thinker. Look for Mitchell to continue his emergence as his sophomore campaign commences.