Charger Classic Top Performers: Day 1
Vernon Carey, University School
The 6-foot-10 mountain man forward put his all-around game on display.
In proving why he’s the country’s top-ranked recruit in the Class of 2019, Carey threw down several thunderous dunks–those which only rarified athletes are capable of.
Carey showed a nifty stepback jumper in the first half. He’s got a smooth left-handed touch and his ability to hit shots at all three levels is indicative of the threat he poses for defenders.
With a the build of a blacksmith, Carey is a special recruit. He will entertain major one-and-done expectations in the near future. Carey’s thorough play during the 9th annual Charger Classic was indicative of how the NBA talk isn’t far-fetched or too much, too soon.
Scottie Barnes, University School
The West Palm Beach native is now entertaining a national schedule at University School, suddenly a powerhouse with the potential to reach the No.1 overall ranking after the upcoming Oak Hill matchup. So, before a cadre of local fans in nearby Riviera Beach Friday, it was only necessary that Barnes put on a show.
The 6-foot-7 guard/forward has a guard’s skill-set and dazzling, high-rising athleticism that’s translatable to the highest level of Division-I basketball. With an established handle and the length and multi-layered presence Barnes provides on defense, the no.5 ranked recruit in the Class of 2020 has his best basketball ahead of him.
Zach Scott, Westminster Academy
With Westminster’s aspirations on another state championship, Scott has the wealth of experience and the veteran savvy component working in his favor. His appetite for crunch time again revealed itself during a reputable Florida Prep team, when Scott ignited surges and hit big shots in the game’s pivotal stretches.
Tylor Miller, Santaluces
Miller scored 16 points to lead Santaluces to a tight victory during Day 1. It was the 6-foot-4 guard’s bouncy athleticism and hard-attacking ability that raised eyebrows during Day 1 of the Charger Classic.
Miller is an adequate at the rim defender and has the type of sneaky bounce that enables him to block and manipulate shots. He was tasked with guarding a taller frontline on Friday and responded to the challenge, as he was aggressive and tenacious throughout. Very underrated.
Makwe Bowles, Suncoast
The Class of 2021 guard/forward has major promise. At 6-foot-5, he’s got some explosiveness to him. Bowles stood out during Suncoast’s lopsided loss to a high-level Sickles (Tampa) team. The physical freshman scored nine of Suncoast’s 17 first half points and was an active presence on the glass.
Japhet Medor, Lake Worth
One year after serving as a backup to All-State guard Trent Frazier (now at Illinois) at Wellington, Medor has been one of Palm Beach County’s highest-impact transfers. The Lake Worth point guard enforces an uptempo attack and scores at all three levels, with a knack for getting into the lane and finishing in crafty fashion. Medor scored a game-best 26 points to lead Lake Worth over Orlando foe Dr. Phillips.
Bryce Workman, Sickles
The 6-foot-8, 240-pound bulldozer is actually one of the Tampa area’s more versatile Division-I prospects. Workman did a little bit of everything in Sickles’ end to end throttling of Suncoast, including set big hard picks and knockdown 18-20 footers.