Palmetto State : Underclassmen making a statement
Prep Hoops has seen several young players during our travels this week. A few of these players are some new names to bring to the table for the years to come. Lets take a look at some we saw yesterday in the Western part of the Palmetto State.
Russell Branch Jr. (2022) – Barnwell HS (pictured on front)
Branch has good size already at 6’1 on the floor. Branch Jr. is the son of Russell Branch Sr. who has been a prep school and college coach throughout the years. Branch Jr. has good size running the point guard spot for the Warhorses. Branch Jr. is averaging 14.5 ppg this season for the Warhorses.
AJ Swedenburg (2021) – Wagener-Salley HS
Swedenburg was a surprise here today at the Hawk Invitational in Blackville. Swedenburg shows a lot of confidence with the ball in his hands. Swedenburg has a great crossover dribble to get by defenders and uses the ball screen well to advance to the cup. Swedenburg needs to work on his shot selection at times on the floor but can score the ball at all 3 levels on the floor.
Swedenburg made a few passes today that his teammates couldn’t catch up to it. Swedenburg sees the floor very well and has great court awareness and vision on the floor. Swedenburg told Prep Hoops that he played AAU with the Aiken Warriors.
Shawn Jones (2021) – Allendale-Fairfax HS
Jones 5’10 combo guard plays at a nice even keel on the floor. Jones hit some open shots today for the Tigers. Jones plays a bit passive at times on the perimeter but seems to have a good feel for the game. Jones came in averaging around 11 ppg after 7 games this season for the Tigers. Allendale-Fairfax is located near the Georgia border and is not known to be a basketball powerhouse by know means.
Prep Hoops will continue its holiday basketball travels this Friday with a trip to Chucktown AKA Charleston. Prep Hoops will take in action from the Roundball Rotary Classic and the Modie Risher Classic.