Prospect Spotlight: Ramon Franklin
Washington High School posted a 6-15 record last season. However, there is plenty of reason to be quite optimistic this upcoming season. The group included only 2 seniors and was largely led by returners. One of the big returns as far as impact is concerned is Ramon Franklin. Although Franklin might make a huge impact, he is only about 5’7. The 2020 PG will have to play a major role if Washington is going to flip their record in the upcoming season.
Ramon Franklin High School
Despite only being a freshman, Franklin might quite a noise last season. He is an elusive guard with a good basketball IQ. At times, it is apparent that he is young. However, his full body of work gives many reasons to be excited.
He is lightening quick with a solid handle and good court vision. Defensively, he can pressure the basketball quite well. As time progresses and he puts on more muscle mass, this skill will only improve. Further, he has a consistent release point on his jump shot and is a very capable shooter.
As far as this upcoming season is concerned, Franklin is looking to “be a leader”. Despite being an underclassmen, he understands that he needs to play a huge role in order for Washington to get over the hump. In fact, he mentioned that he wants to “try to average a double-double this year”. Although that goal might be a little opportunistic, if Franklin is able to produce, Washington has enough talent to have a solid season.
In order to see great improvement, Franklin “expects [his] team to just hustle and play as a team”. If they do that, Franklin is confident that they will “make a bang this year”.
Ramon Franklin College Interest
At this point, Franklin has not received any college interest. However, he has made a favorable impression on a number of local scouts. Further, one of Franklin’s goals is to play college basketball.
As far as what he is looking for in a school, he stated he wants to get a good education and “compete with the best in college basketball”. Although Franklin is relatively young in the recruiting process and is only a sophomore, he does have a “3.2 GPA”.
For club basketball, he plays for Arizona Hype. The group is primarily comprised of west valley players. Further, a good portion of the players participate at Washington High School. When asked about his club experience, he replied, “It was good”. He continued, “our coach did a good job of putting all of the pieces together and allowing me to just play my game”.
Moreover, Franklin understands that he has a lot to work on in order to be a college basketball player. He noted, “I put a lot of work in over the summer and I am still putting in work now”. He has worked relentlessly to get better at getting into the paint and kicking it to the open teammate. Further, he wants to grow in his ability to manage the game as a true point guard.
Ramon Franklin College Projection
At times, Franklin has really impressed me and I forget that he is only a 2020 prospect. He is quick and has a good feel for the game. However, any height and muscle mass that he can acquire would greatly help his game as far as it translating to the next level.
In addition, if he can continue to improve in his ability to manage the game for the entirety of the game, his stock will greatly raise. At this point, I see him as a mid NAIA or NCAA Division II prospect.