Jayhawk Invitational Recap (Class of 2018 Forwards)
Here are some of the top Missouri Class of 2018 forwards from last weekend’s Jayhawk Invitational in Overland Park, KS.
Clay Gayman 6’5″ KC Pacers Blue: A dynamic combo forward who produces a double-double about any time he walks on the floor. He is tough in the low post with his shooting touch and ability to dunk off drop steps moves. Gayman is an excellent shooter from 15 feet, which also sets up his ability to beat defenders off the bounce and dunk. He has also extended his range to beyond the 3-point line. Gayman has received a number of Division II offers after a big weekend.
Christian Bishop 6’7″ Team Rush: A long, slender combo forward who continues to be one of the biggest stock risers in the Class of 2018 throughout the year. He has the size and versatile skill set to play just about anywhere on the floor. He is an excellent ball handler and passer to the point where you can run offense through him. Bishop can shoot the ball and be an impact player on defense as well. The next step in his development is being able to will himself on the game more often. He has that kind of talent.
Tyreese Davis 6’6″ KC Run GMC: The athletic combo forward was one of the most active players in the tournament. Davis displayed the ability to make game-changing plays on both ends of the floor with his athleticism and high motor. He could block a shot, grab an offensive rebound and get out in transition and throw down a big dunk to spark his team. Davis also has a versatile skill set that compliments his high motor. He can handle the ball, shoot jumpers and score in the post.
Sevon Witt 6’6″ Team Rush: A talented combo forward who has size, athleticism to impact the game as a rebounder, shot blocker who can also throw down some impressive dunks. On top of that, Witt also has the perimeter game of a small forward. He is a comfortable ball handler who can create plays off the dribble and knock down jumpers. At about 220-pounds, Witt has that unique combination of power and finesse in his game.
Quinan Rieves 6’4″ NdaGym: A versatile combo forward with good athleticism and a hard-working approach to the game. Had a productive weekend in leading his team to the Silver Division championship. He has good footwork and nice moves in the low post. He rebounded at a high rate and used his quickness to beat opposing bigs off the dribble. If he develops a consistent jump shot, he could be a formidable matchup problem as a small forward.
Nate Bax 6’6″ MO Team Carroll: A big, strong power forward who excels on the football field, Bax was having an excellent weekend until he went down with an ankle injury during the first round of bracket play. He was very active as a scorer and rebounder in the post. He operated on the baseline well and did a nice job with some aggressive drives to the basket. He picked up his first offer in football over the weekend.
Wes McCullough 6’7″ KC Magic: An excellent Stretch 4 prospect with size, length and a nice stroke from 3-point range. He is the ideal player for the pick-and-pop with his ability to stretch the floor with this 3-point shooting. He scores well around the basket with both hands and did a fine job on the boards as well.
Outside Missouri
Jarvis Thomas 6’7″ Howard Pulley (MN): An impressive power forward who played with a high motor all weekend in helping his team to the 17U championship. Thomas was tough around the basket as a scorer and rebounder on both ends. He threw down impressive power dunks in traffic.