Who was the MVP of each grassroots team program this past spring and summer? This might not necessarily be the best player although in many cases it is. We are looking at the player that elevated their game and stepped up when it mattered most taking both themselves and their teams to the next level.
The Southwest Jets had a lot of candidates for this honor, but it was the stellar play of their rising junior wing that makes this a relatively easy choice. Our choice for the Jets program MVP is 2017 Belleville East small forward Javon Pickett. The 6’4” wing stood out to us when we saw him during the high school season earning a top 10 ranking. He continued to excel with his combination of perimeter skill, smooth ball handling, and considerable upside during the spring and summer for the Southwest Jets 16U. It was great to see Pickett get some of the much deserved attention on the recruiting trail as he picked up quite a few offers after his play in July.
Our signature performance from Pickett actually came back in the spring at the Nike Spring Showdown in a victory over the Mac Irvin Fire that gave them the co-championship. The wing has great length and athleticism. He came out assertive and looking to score finishing with 17 points. Pickett hit a few triples with improved mechanics from deep. He is silky smooth in the transition game with the ball handling it great for his size. Pickett made several dynamic moves off the dribble being slippery through traffic and finishing at the cup. Rebounded well on the offensive glass.
Pickett is without a doubt tracking as a high-major prospect heading into his junior campaign.
