Southern Jam Fest Underclassmen Stock Boosters Part 1
HAMPTON, VA — Southern Jam Fest is in the books, and many players made strong statements in an event packed with top notch talent. Below we highlight the underclassmen who boosted their stock with a consistently strong run of play over the weekend.
RONELL GILES | TEAM ST8MENT
Ronell Giles played some backup point for Team St8ment, and did a nice job while on the ball. The 6’3 sophomore is a true combo guard, and has the ability to make plays for others while scoring when needed. Giles is best in the middle areas of the floor, but can also stretch the floor from beyond the arc and finish in the paint.
JAY HEATH | TEAM ST8MENT
Jay Heath was probably the most consistent player for Team St8ment throughout the weekend. Heath’s jumper was on this weekend, and he is so good at creating room for it with his crafty ball handling skills. Heath is also a strong finisher at the basket, and doesn’t mind contact at the rim.
’20 TEGRA IZAY | TEAM DURANT
6’10 center Tegra Izay was an integral factor for Team Durant during their run to the 15U Championship. The long limbed big man was seen repelling shots at the basket, and running the floor with purpose. Izay is still very raw, but has shown steady signs of improvement this spring.
NATE LEMONS | TEAM ST8MENT
6’7 forward Nate Lemons is an intriguing prospect with a nice blend of size and skill. The lefty is a very good three point shooter from the catch, and owns a rugged frame which doesn’t mind battling for rebounds down low. Lemons has great hands, and displays a high basketball IQ. He knows where to be to get the ball, and doesn’t hesitate upon receipt.
MEKHI LONG | TEAM ST8MENT
Mekhi Long was another consistently productive part of Team St8ment’s run to the 16U final four in Hampton. The skilled 6’7 forward is has a very high motor. Long can score at all three levels, and defend virtually any position on the floor.
GILBERT OTOO | DISTRICT BASKETBALL CLUB
Pallotti’s 6’5 sophomore SG Gilbert Otoo was deadly from the mid range areas of the floor for DBC. Otoo has the size to raise up and shoot over most defenders, and a quick release on his jumper. We like the upside for Otoo given his current skill set in conjunction with his impressive frame.