2019 Player Rankings: Baltimore Prospects Part Three
Nigel Haughton | 6’0 | John Carroll/Team Melo Red
Previous Ranking: (ranked in 2018 class)
New Ranking: 41
Over the summer, Haughton released the news that he would be reclassifying to the class of 2019 and will look to do a prep year after this season. Haughton is a smart floor general that can fill many roles. If his team needs more of a distributor, he can get his teammates involved. If there is a need for scoring from one of the guard spots, Haughton can knock down the long-ball efficiently. At John Carroll Haughton plays alongside Immanuel Quickley where he looks to score off Quickley’s playmaking. This year will be more of the same as the Patriots head into the season as one of the favorites to win the MIAA/BCL.
Jalen Rucker | 2019 | Gilman/Team Melo
Previous Ranking: 67
New Ranking: 46
Rucker is one of my favorites guards in the 2019 class to watch simply because of the intensity that he plays with. The quick guard is always going 110 percent on both ends trying to give his team an advantage. His energy flows through his teammates, which bleeds through in his overall leadership. Gilman brought in a new coaching staff that should fit Rucker’s playing style well. Rucker can attack the rim and finish well to go with a nice jumper from outside. Defensively, he can pick up his man full court and provide constant ball pressure, which results in a few steals throughout the course of a game.
Jalen Parker | 6’6 | Milford Mill/Crusader Nation
Previous Ranking: Unranked
New Ranking: 52
Parker had a productive summer at multiple events including the Top 250 Expo. The long-armed wing catches the eyes of coaches within minutes after watching him play. Parker is a three-level scorer, but separates himself by showcasing his ability to shoot off the catch for his size. Defensively, his length disrupts opponent’s shot attempts both around the rim and from outside. The most impressive part of Parker’s game is his willingness to talk defensively. No matter if he is guarding the ball, playing on the weakside or guarding a screener, Parker is always shouting out what’s taking place on the floor. Multiple Division III programs have expressed interest in Parker.
Amani Walker | 6’9 | Poly/Team Melo
Previous Ranking: 29
New Ranking: 47
Walker is one of the returners for the Engineers as they look to repeat as Class 3A champions. He’ll be partnering alongside Justin Lewis (2020) in head coach Sam Brand’s froncourt that will have plenty of size. His length makes him a shot-blocking presence and although he still can improve as a rebounder, he’ll make an impact on both ends doing so. Offensively, he’ll be expected to play off the multitude of playmakers on the floor. Finishing at the rim and making open shots will be part of his role, and he’s capable of doing both.
Gerard Mungo | 6’2 | Patterson/Team Thrill
Previous Ranking: 48
New Ranking: 50
Mungo had a productive summer for Thrill and with the decision from Marvin Price to transfer to Huntington Prep, a major bulk of the scoring load will be thrown on his shoulders. The strong, 6’2 guard will be able to carry it. Mungo is crafty with the ball and is an efficient, high-volume scorer from all three levels. This season for the Clippers, we’ll truly see his entire offensive repertoire. Will it be enough for Patterson to repeat as 2A state champions? That’s what everyone will be watching.