Updated 2019 Rankings: Small Forwards, Part I
We recently updated the new rankings for the Class of 2019, a group we believe has the chance to be really special in Colorado from top to bottom.
Over the next couple weeks, we will be taking closer look at the class by position. We continue today with the first of a two-part look at the small forwards in the class
Note: A player being on a list for a certain position does not mean it’s the only position they can or will play. It’s simply an observation of where we’ve seen them most:
Ronnie DeGray III, 6-6, Chaparral. 2019 Overall Rank: 3.
DeGray is among the most versatile players in the class. He can handle the ball on the break, step back and hit 3-pointers with consistency and play tough in the post. He’s constantly worked on his perimeter skills as he’s grown physically, and he could still have a couple more inches to go on that front. As a result, DeGray is a player who can create multiple matchup problems on both ends of the court. His stats from his sophomore season — 15.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 steals and one assist per game — speak to the ability he has to affect the game in multiple ways. DeGray already has an offer from the University of Denver as he heads into July. Expect more to follow.
Jaedon Bowles, 6-5, Manual: 2019 Overall Rank: 4.
Bowles has all the tools to be an impact player at the next level. He’s explosive in space, he can hit with solid consistency from 3-point range, he’s long, quick and versatile on the defensive end and he can display good toughness when challenged. He was among the state’s leading scorers as a sophomore at Manual at 23.5 points per game, and he added 7.8 rebounds. In short, he’s a constant double-double threat who also averaged 1.5 steals and one block. Bowles has flown under the radar, playing at 3A and yet to hit a major travel circuit, but he’s every bit as talented as his peers in this class.
Joel Scott, 6-5, Lewis-Palmer: 2019 Overall Rank: 9.
Scott has already proven himself a big-time winner, leading Lewis-Palmer to the 4A state championship game last season. He led the 23-5 Rangers in scoring at 14.1 points per game and was second in rebounding at 6.3. What sticks out about Scott is the control he plays with. He’s a smart, methodical player who knows where he wants to get on the court and is strong enough not to be pushed off his spots. Scott shot 54 percent from the field last season, and as he works to make his 3-point shot more consistent — 29 percent last season — he’l have a full offensive tool bag.
Dayne Prim, 6-5, Grandview: 2019 Overall Rank: 12.
Prim is a bouncy, athletic player who runs the floor with a strong motor. He was an instrumental part of a Grandview team that last season fell just one possession short of reaching the 5A Final Four. Prim is really strong on the offensive glass. He’s a an athletic leaper, yes, but he also displays the “want to” necessary in a strong rebounder. He showed his fool range of skills in a big Sweet 16 victory over Mountain Vista, tallying 15 points, 13 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks. Prim’s a stat-sheet stuffer who is only beginning to approach his ceiling.