Five Undersized Guards Who Are Under-Recruited:
Being undersized is unfortunately one of the biggest limiting factors in a player’s recruitment, regardless of how good that player may perform. Countless times we’ve seen undersized players be overlooked, only to take advantage of one of the few opportunities they had and prove everybody wrong. In today’s game of 3-point happy basketball, being undersized means less than it did say 10, 15 years ago. With that being said, most coaches will take the 6’4″ point guard over the 5’10”, even if the 5’10” player is better. While this is most definitely a matter of personal opinion, a fact that cannot be disagreed with is that it is still possible to be an impact player despite being undersized, no matter what the odds. Here are five undersized guards around the state of Michigan who’s talent outweighs their small stature:
Hunter Dyke | The Ann Arbor NewsDrew Lowder (2019, Ann Arbor Pioneer/The Family) – At 5’10”, Drew is one of the top guards in the state in any class. He is nearly a complete player, perhaps lacking only the ability to play above the rim. Even so, he still is an elite finisher and finds success taking it to the rack against even the best competition. He can play a true point or be a scorer, as he has the handles/quickness to get where he wants to go, the vision to find open teammates, as well as elite shooting and finishing abilities. However, what’s most impressive about his game is his defense. He has excellent footwork and a solid core that allows him to cut defenders off and absorb the contact – stopping the ball-handler without picking up a handcheck foul. Look for him to have a monster year this upcoming prep season.
Jack Ammerman (2018, Ann Arbor Skyline/1Nation) – Jack is one of the best shooters in the state. Standing around 5’11”, he’s more than just a spot-up shooter. While his shot is not to be understated, he’s capable of handling the ball and attacking from the perimeter. He typically plays off-ball more as a two-guard; however, he would be a solid fit at the point for a team that has a reliable playmaker on the wing. He’s a player who makes smart, winning plays – stuff coaches love. He’s had a very successful AAU campaign with 1Nation, proving he can compete with the best competition. Him and AAU/high school teammate Brandon Wade will make one of the most talented backcourts in the state next year – given he continues his successful AAU play through July and has a strong senior year, perhaps he may be able to pick up that ever-elusive D1 offer. He will definitely be a player to watch.
CJ Robinson (2018, Clarkston/North Oakland Wolfpack) – One thing that’s common about sub-6′ guards who make it to the D1 level is elite athleticism. This can make up a few inches and allow a player to play bigger than he is, which is exactly what Robinson does. At 5’11”, he’s a great athlete and tough as nails; two abilities of which, when combined, can allow a player to be a menace defensively. Robinson is one of the best on-ball defenders in the state – he’s more than capable of shutting down the opponent’s best guard. Offensively, he simply makes plays. His jumper isn’t elite by any means, but it goes in at a decent rate. He can finish and pass as well. Nothing about his game offensively stands out except one important thing – he limits his mistakes/turnovers because he doesn’t force it. This is valuable skill for a true PG like Robinson. While he may not be as big of a name as some of the other guys on this list, he should not be overlooked. Robinson possesses the most valuable skill a player can possess – he’s a winner.
Ja’Kavien Lewis (2018, Flint Carmann-Ainsworth/1Nation) – At 5’10’, Lewis is one of those super athletic guards who can play much bigger than he actually is. When Lewis is playing, it’s almost easy to forget that he’s 5’10”. In fact, I’ve seen him go up and block guys who are 6’6″. He’s got a bit of everything in his game – scoring, finishing, distributing, defending and even a bit of rebounding. He’s very good at generating easy offense via the steal and fastbreak. He’s also a very good playmaker – he’ll tally multiple assists virtually every game. Like Robinson, he’s tough as nails and is a high-level on ball defender who is capable of pressuring you all the way up the court.
Khalid Fleming (2019, River Rouge/Greenwood Elite) – Fleming has been having a great AAU season anchoring the backcourt for Greenwood 16u, a team that has been ranked top 25 nationally this year. At just 5’9″, he’s the smallest guy on this list. His defense is his biggest strength as he has that ability to hound opposing guards the entire length of the court. Throughout the spring and into the summer, he’s displayed a nice ability to score and create on the offensive side of the ball. With always-good River Rouge graduating some key pieces from this past season’s team, look for Fleming to step up big time this year.