Recruiting Report: James Gardner Jr (2018)
James Gardner Jr – 6’1” | PG | Arrington Elite | Fort Wayne New Haven High School
James Gardner Jr is a unique athlete in today’s athletic scene. He is a three-sport standout athlete getting interest in every sport: basketball, football, and track. He was also an outstanding tennis player when he took it up early in high school. James attends New Haven High School in Fort Wayne and played with Arrington Elite this past summer.
“This summer went well. My shooting has improved but I’m still working on that. Focusing on ball handling and finishing at the rim with both hands.”
Gardner is one of the most active players in the Class of 2018. He has an endless motor and plays hard all eighty-four feet for all four quarters. Rarely does he get time off during the stretch of the game and it doesn’t seem to slow him down.
He is a natural born leader with a work ethic that is unmatched by most. His ability to control the game on the defensive end is one of the most impressive things about him. James can guard at an elite level and is great at jumping into passing lanes to create easy opportunities in transition.
Not only is he one of the best on-ball defenders in the area, he is also one of the most impressive rebounding guards. Gardner is one of those guys who grabs double digit rebounds on a nightly basis from the point guard spot while also pushing double digit assists most nights. He is a triple-double threat because of his willingness to be an elite rebounding guard and a true pass first point guard.
“Recruiting has been going well. I’ve been getting more on the football and track side of things as of now.” James is currently receiving interest from Indiana University, Indiana State University, Ball State University, and Indiana Wesleyan University for one or both sports.
He has heard from IUPUI and the University of Indianapolis for basketball as well.
“I want to study architecture, sports marketing management, or go into youth ministries in college.”
James is a special player that has been flying under-the-radar throughout his high school career. He is one of the most coachable players on the sideline and is a true extension of the head coach on the floor from the point guard position. A humble leader and makes the sacrifices that make his team successful. He is a must see player in the Fort Wayne area this upcoming season as he looks to expand his options for college.