Prospect Spotlight: Rahim Jenkins (2018)
Even at the high school level, certain schools seem to have trends every season. At LC Bird, there has always been a breakout guard their junior or senior season. Two seasons ago it was Charles Falden, who broke out his junior season and parlayed that into being named 5A State Player of the Year. Last season it was Cam Henry, who went from a role player as a junior to an integral part of their championship run on the way to being named to the First Team 5A All State Team.
With the Skyhawks graduating five of their top six players, including their entire backcourt, they will need someone to step up and take the reigns next season. Early this summer, it looks like rising senior Rahim Jenkins is in the perfect situation to step into that role.
“I just want to keep getting better and get more experience to prepare for next season so hopefully we can win another state championship,” Jenkins said.
Jenkins showed flashes in their state tournament run as the first guard off the bench. In the state championship against Bethel, Jenkins had a three play sequence that included a deep three, a tough breakdown off the bounce in isolation and a steal and dime in transition.
Being around the Skyhawks program for their state championship run, I’ve both heard and seen that Jenkins can play, he was just was stuck behind four seniors that will sign full scholarships to college. However, Head Coach Troy Manns is encouraging Jenkins to use this summer to prepare him to become the man next season.
“He just wants me to be confident, score and just play my game,” Jenkins said about his Head Coach Troy Manns at LC Bird.
After a hot start this summer, Jenkins is leading River City Reign in scoring heading into the first live period. The athletic scoring combo guard has turned heads early with his ability to score it in bunches, but why let me tell it when he understands it so well for himself?
“I can score whether it’s lay ups, three’s or on the pull up, and I can still keep my teammates involved as well. I know I need to work on getting a more consistent jumper and tightening up my handle though.”
As for his goals, he simply wants to show what he’s capable of doing when he gets an opportunity.
“I just want to have a good summer, win games and get offers if possible.”
With basketball trending more in favor of small, dynamic scoring guards, don’t be surprised if Jenkins fits the mold for what coaches are looking for this summer.