Ryse Williams Pac Shores Tournament: 2018 Standouts
REDONDO BEACH, CA—The 66th Annual Ryse Williams Pacific Shores Tournament had it’s usual contingent of outstanding games and prospects. The Westchester Comets put their stamp on the list of potential candidates of winning the Open Division State Championship after taking control in the 2nd half in their victory over Santa Margarita.
Francisco’s Finest…..Best of the 2018s
Kaelen Allen (Westchester)
PF, 6-foot-6, 235 pounds
Joel’s Take: Allen is a big-bodied 5/4 that has remarkably good feet and some definite bounce. He can attack from the elbow, shows a nice touch in the paint, and has fundamentally sound pivots and patience while operating on the block. While operating on the block he shows a high IQ for the game with his interior passing.
Wayne Arnold (Dominguez)
SG, 6-foot-3, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: One of the biggest surprises of the event was the consistency of Arnold. He has always shown snippets of his talent, but it appears this Cal State Fullerton signee has taken his game to a whole new level. His step back jump shot and turn-around fade-aways in the post are a thing of beauty. If he continues to add strength to his wiry frame and sharpen his left hand while attacking and finishing, his future is bright.
Riley Battin (Oakpark)
PF, 6-foot-9, 230 pounds
Joel’s Take: Battin, who is headed to Utah next season, is the most skilled “big” in Southern California. Deep jump shots, face-up drives and cutbacks with either hand are part of the package. At this event he made play after play due to his skill, fundamentals, and overall feel for the game.
Jules Bernard (Windward)
WF, 6-foot-6, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: The lanky lefty is tough to handle in the open court as he weaves his way through defenders. He is an excellent rebounder, improved jump shooter, and he always gives you an honest effort. On the other hand, the UCLA-bound wing has a tendency to play too fast and needs to utilize the jump stop to improve his overall game.
Caleb Christopher (Mayfair)
CG, 5-foot-11, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: The description “relentless scorer” immediately comes to mind when breaking down Christopher’s game. His 3-point shot is streaky but he is fearless as an attacker—utilizing his strength and speed to finish in traffic. His shot selection is shaky (forces the issue) and he needs to do a better job of advancing the ball, but he is a gamer.
Devonaire Doutrive (Birmingham)
PG, 6-foot-4, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Doutrive, who has Utah (brother Devante attends there), San Diego State, and UC Santa Barbara recruiting him, has as much upside as any prospect in Southern California. The willowy point guard prospect has a tight crossover, changes speeds, and is a nifty finisher. He thinks pass before score and his passing acumen is impressive. His jump shot needs polishing (doesn’t always follow through and doesn’t use his legs) but his overall talent and savvy are high-level.
Kendal Frey (Narbonne)
WF, 6-foot-4, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: Frey is a hard-nosed wing-type that plays hard at both ends of the floor. He shows a solid burst off the dribble and has the strength to finish through contact. His jump shot is a bit streaky, but it’s playable.
Jordan Guest (Santa Margarita)
PF, 6-foot-8, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: Guest, who signed with Boston University, possesses a nice combination of skill and moxie. He’s a gritty 4-man with sound post skills and a soft touch out to 20-feet. He isn’t afraid to throw his body around in the paint and he passes well from the block. In the championship game against Westchester, he was the catalyst for keeping the game close. Gamer.
Zekiah Lovett (Redondo Union)
2018, PG, 6-foot-2, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: The brother of St. John’s standout (Marcus) has game too. Blessed with a terrific frame with broad shoulders and long arms, he is on his way to becoming a college recruit as well. He can nail the deep jump shot or snap passes in the open court. If he can improve his decision making (takes quick shots) and improve his pick-and rolll game, he should get some looks in the spring.