Hype Addix: Day 1 Standouts
This was the second of two quality events hosted by Hype Athletics and Michigan HS Basketball. This tournament had solid teams from Michigan, Ohio and Illinois. Saturday marked the beginning of pool play and featured most teams with two or three games over the course of the day. Since I was able to watch several teams compete more than once, I was able to get multiple looks at several players that could be very valuable on a college squad. Here are some of my top performers from the first day of pool play:
Leroy Fitzgerald (Ohio Shooting Stars – Green 17u) – Fitzgerald displayed very solid fundamentals in both of the games I saw him play. He showed an ability to shoot from beyond the arc as well as step in and hit the midrange. He shot consistently both off the dribble and off the catch. He displayed good vision and passing ability as well. He controlled the ball well and played within himself, never seeming out of control. He communicated with his teammates on both sides of the ball. All together, he displayed an ability to be a true point guard as well as effective leader.
Matthew Harmon (Michigan Mustangs – Hogan 17u) – Listed at 6’6″, Harmon is athletic in all areas. He can run, jump and bang in the post. He was excellent on the glass all day, grabbing boards on both ends of the floor. He also showed an above average shot blocking ability. On the offensive end, he hit the three ball consistently. He looked very comfortable shooting, even out to several steps behind the three point line.
Leon Jackson (Pettaway Eagles 17u (Ohio)) – Jackson played with an effective aggressiveness on both sides of the ball. He used his elite athleticism to finish well around the rim, as well as rebound over taller opponents. He displayed good handles and ball control, allowing him to run the point in addition to his primary position as a 2-guard. Not just a finisher, he scored at all three levels in both games I saw him play. Given his elite athleticism and his solid skills, his ceiling is high.
Willante Williams (Illinois Icemen 17u) – Williams went off in the second game I watched, hitting 5 threes in a row in the second half. He’s a shooter, however, he’s not just a catch and shoot guy; he hit a couple threes off the dribble, one even in transition. He’s long and athletic which helps him make an impact on the defensive end as well. His explosive shooting ability makes him a valuable commodity to any team.