Recruiting Report: Raphe Ayres (2019)
Raphe Ayres, a class of 2019 wing at Maret School, is a nice prospect with great versatility and a high motor. He is a player to watch this season, and has looked very good in the offseason both with his high school and AAU Team.
“I am an exciting and energetic player to watch. I am a knock down shooter, a lockdown defender, and do all of the little things to make sure my team achieves success,” said Ayres, who will be playing with Arlington Rockets this summer. “I would say that people don’t recognize what I do on the court regarding my leadership and how I’m always talking to my teammates or picking them up when they’re down. People also don’t recognize the little things that I have done since a young age such as making sure I’m always in help on defense and staying true to my fundamentals.”
One thing we like about Ayres is his tenacity while on the court. He evidently does not back down from any challenge. The 6’5 wing is an excellent shooter from the catch, but has worked hard to become more versatile offensively.
“My most improved aspect of my game in the past 12 months would have to be the consistency on my shot and my pull up game. Also, my on ball defense and athleticism in terms of strength, size, and speed have improved dramatically,” Ayres stated. “I need to work on my ball handling and my overall game in every aspect.”
Maret is considered a top 5 academic school in the DMV, and Ayres is doing well there. In his freshman year, he finished up with a 3.4. This year, he finished with a B average. Holy Cross, Cornell, Columbia, Loyola, and Missouri are the schools that have currently expressed interest in Ayres. What can he bring to a college program?
“Three things that I will take with me no matter what school I go to are my shooting ability, my pride on defense, and my heart / energy. I also bring versatility in being able to play and guard positions 1 through 4.”