Charlie Wilkins Memorial recap: Top Prospects
Charlie Wilkins Memorial recap: Top Prospects
WESTMINSTER, CA.—It’s tough sledding this time of year scouting in Southern California due to a plethora of holiday tournaments. But if you do a little research or call upon fellow gurus Frank Burlison and Devin Ugland to map out a plan—there are a few nuggets to be had. At the Charlie Wilkins Memorial there were couple of prospects that I had not seen in awhile—including 2018 sharpshooter Blake Burzell and 2019 Daniel Boatwright. However the star of the night was 2019 Isaiah Lee who dropped in 32-points.
Francisco’s Finest
Best Performance
Lee is another sleeper-type in the So-Cal class of 2019Isaiah Lee (Westminster)
2019, CG, 6-foot-1, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: Lee put on a show, especially in the 2nd quarter when he drained four 3-pointers from deep before capping off a monster off-hand cram to put an exclamation on the victory over favored St. Genevieve. Lee is a strong combo-guard who needs to learn the nuances of the game (changing speeds/decision making/etc.) but he has the physical tools to play some where in college in a couple of seasons. Keep an eye on younger brother 6-foot Joshua Lee (2020). The physical tools are there, but the production aspects needs to kick in.
Best Prospects
Daniel Boatwright (St. Genenevie)
2019, WF, 6-foot-7, 210 pounds
Joel’s Take: Like his older sibling Bennie who is stroking jump shots from deep with USC, the younger Daniel has those same skills from the perimeter. His shot is smooth and he is a astute passer, especially in transition. However, he needs to be much more assertive (playing through contact) to take game to another level.
Blake Burzell (Laguna Beach)
2018, WF, 6-foot-5, 200 pounds
Joel’s Take: It was a mixed bag for Burzell as he battled foul trouble and careless decision-making at times. However, in the 3rd quarter he showed why he could be an asset on the Division 1 level. His pull-up game and overall shooting touch is high-level as well as his passing acumen. Not too mention he is a high-level baseball prospect.
Mr. Motor
Cooper Jervis (Orange Lutheran)
2019, WF, 6-foot-2, 190 pounds
Joel’s Take: Cooper just brings it every time at both ends. Can hammer home the dunk in transition, battle for rebounds, attack off the dribble, and defend multiple positions. Straight winner right here.
Most Athletic
Pharoh Allah (St. Genevieve)
2018, 6-foot-4, 200 pounds
Joel’s Take: The physical tools are evident with Allah as he possesses a college-ready frame with long arms, broad shoulders, and some major bounce. He is a position-less player who affects the game inside and out due to his motor, strength, and instincts in the paint area.
Sleeper-type
Josh Griffin (Orange Lutheran)
2019, 6-foot-2, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: Griffin’s jump shot looked tight, exhibiting solid mechanics and good lift. He has the frame and athleticism to be labeled a sleeper type. He needs to get better attacking off the dribble and creating for others, but he’s intriguing.
Mr. Intangibles
Anthony Nguyen (Westminster)
2018, CG, 6-foot, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: While teammate Lee (Isaiah) was scoring at will, Nguyen kept defenses honest with his ball skills and IQ for the game. He attacks well off the dribble, can hit shots, and has the dexterity to finish shots in the paint.