Five underclassmen you need to know about
It has been a fun summer filled with highlight reel dunks and plenty of game-changing plays. Some new faces popped up and the top older guys continued to improve their games.
Here’s a look at five underclassmen in the state of Florida that are on the rise.
Javon Bell
2020 guard Javon Bell is a major factor at Santa Fe Catholic. He made an instant impact as a freshman. At 6’3″, the rising sophomore could easily end up the season as the team’s top scorer. He earned ample experience for E1T1 this summer. Look for Bell to have a ton of double digit performances this upcoming season.
Rivers Lenholt
Over in St. Pete, Rivers Lenholt is as sound as they come for a 6’2″ guard. The 2020 Canterbury leader can flat out shoot and he is really good at finding his way inside. He played this summer with Nike Team Florida. This is a big year for Lenholt as he matures further as the No. 1 option for the Crusaders.
Shakur Poteat
I first saw Shakur Poteat at the Super Showcase this summer. The 5’8″ guard may be undersized, but boy is he quick. He shined as the top option for the GPI All Stars. He’ll get his chance to run the point at times alongside fellow 2020 guard Michael Eads at Edgewater. Poteat is someone who I can see turning heads this year.
Gabriel Sharp
Tampa Prep is a young team and 2020 forward Gabriel Sharp has gained confidence this summer. Playing with Skills Center Elite, Sharp is coming along nicely. The 6’4″ wing has the ability to play lockdown defense. His 3-point game is streaky, but he creates for others and has the length to succeed.
Cortez McKenzie
Last but not least is 2021 Lakewood guard Cortez McKenzie. The rising freshman is a standout player. He works very well off Jaylen White for the Spartans. Much like Gibbs with Tre Gilliam working off of David Pierce. McKenzie hit a game tying 3 in a high school summer league semifinal against Gibbs a few weeks ago with under 30 seconds left. He plays a mature style of basketball.