Holiday Wishlist: UpperClassmen vs Underclassman
Some people get their shopping done early, I’m a bit of a last minute deal taker or after Christmas shopper. During the holidays we want the best gifts possible, its no different for a coach that wants to come out the holidays rolling on all cylinders. I’ve looked at players who’ve started the season well and during the holiday break, they are clicking on all cylinders. I’m going to build my team/ wishlist to have a well rounded squad of Upperclassmen vs Underclassmen!
Upperclassmen:
Tyrick Brascom | Tampa Bay Tech | 5’8 2018 PG
Brascom has developed into one of the best playmakers in Hillsborough County. At 5’8, he fears no one. He will get up into a offensive opponent and he will blow by you on offense. He’s the reason his team is the reigning district champs and off to a good start at 9-2 this year.
Matt Simpson | Plant City | 6’1 2018 G
Matt is a threat from any where on the court. He has all the tools to be a complete scorer and the mentality to go with it. He’s averaging 22.6 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals per game. Simpson is a versatile guard and only needs 18 points to become a 1,000 points scorer in his career. He’s a big reason Plant City is 10-1 and highly favored in each contest.
Isaiah Hodge | Lennard | 6’5 2019 G
Hodge is averaging 21.4 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. Over the years he has developed a good shot but his athletic ability is what sets him apart. He can jump out the gym and is lightning quick. Although his team is struggling to get wins, he makes every game worth watching.
Keyshawn Bryant | Winter Haven | 6’7 2018 F
Bryant is a highlight reel waiting to happen, he does it all from scoring to defending. He plays best in transition which allows him to create and make the highlight dunks he’s becoming famous for. Word of advice for defenders, don’t jump! He’s averaging 23.8 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals.
Luke Anderson | Lakeland | 6’10 2019 F
Luke reminds me of the Knick’s forward Kristaps Porzingis, he can play inside and outside. Anderson is becoming a highly sought after prospect because of his ability to shoot. Stretch fours are more common now in todays game and he fits the bill well. He’s averaging 27 points, 12 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 4 assists.
Underclassmen:
Walter Clayton Jr | Lake Wales | 6’1 2021 PG
Walter has been rated as the #1 point guard by Florida Basketball Bulletin and I see why. The kids confidence and ability match, if not now, soon he’ll be on some high major boards for recruiting. he has a high IQ and he doesn’t get rattled.
Charles Crews Jr | Strawberry Crest | 5’10 2021 G
Crews is a scorer. If he gets hot, watch out! He’s not flashy, he’s not gonna blow past you but what he can do is shoot and he can shoot from any where. There isn’t a moment that too big for him, he thrives in time of pressure. Keep an eye on him.
Emmanuel Baez | Plant City | 6’4 2020 F
Baez is tough and versatile, he has unlimited range but likes to mix it up with post players. As a freshmen, he led his team in three point shooting percentage at 63%. His averages of 4 points and 5 rebounds don’t speak to his impact.
Eric Brown | Avon Park | 6’6 2020 F
Brown has the post moves to score on anyone and he’s starting to develop and outside jumper to match. Talking with folks around him, he’s transitioning to become more of a wing, if he does then his value will definitely shoot up as a prospect on the next level.
Kobe Gibbs | Strawberry Crest | 6’6 2020 F
Kobe is a work in progress but the talent is there to be great. He can play inside and out but will have to bulk up his frame to bang with the big dogs. His growth will dictate how his team does in the future and how high of a prospect he can be.
With these guys in my wishlist, I’d feel confident facing any team. This mixture of classes and talent could provide years of success. I’m advising everyone to keep your radar on all these guys to see where they land as prospects on the next level.