Take Flight Challenge: Under the radar
Take Flight Challenge: Under the radar
NORWALK, CA— The Take Flight Challenge is always a must-stop on the So-Cal winter scouting tour. It’s always chock-full of elite players, teams, as well as a tasty hospitality room. Bishop Montgomery, despite missing David Singleton, Gianni Hunt, and Will Crawford, hung on for a thrilling 65-62 victory over highly touted Sierra Canyon squad.
Francisco’s Finest
John Clausell (Leuzinger)
2019, PG, 5-foot-6, 140 pounds
Joel’s Take: Clausell gets caught in the shadow of super sophomore Amound Anderson, but don’t let his size fool you—the kid can go. He is a menace on the defensive end as he gets into ball handlers and causes havoc. In addition, he pushes the ball well in transition and delivers timely passes to open teammates. Overall, Clausell is Leuzinger’s unsung hero.
Carter Alexander (Camarillo)
2020, PG, 6-foot, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: Teammate Jaime Jaquez Jr. gets all the notoriety—and rightfully so. However, Camarillo’s success also comes from an intriguing sophomore in Alexander. He is a gamer who plays with a plethora of moxie and he is a knock down shooter. He pushes the ball well in the open court and he’ll either kick it to an open teammate or convert the deep jump shot. He needs to improve his speed and quickness, but he is a winner.
Bryan Mex (Leuzinger)
2021, CG, 6-foot, 150 pounds
Joel’s Take: Mex was one of the better shooters at the event. He has deep range on his shot and it has a terrific arc on it. He is a rangy athlete who is potent in transition where he spots up for his shot. He also has the dexterity to finish in the paint area. He is definitely one to watch in the Class of 2021.
Daniel Zahabian (Beverly Hills)
2018, PG, 6-foot, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: Zahabian is an underrated floor general who was extremely productive at this event. He attacks well in the open court, uses his body well to finish through contact, and he has a slick handle. He excels in the half court with his ability to run high screen and roll and he is quite good setting up shooters off the drive. Not too mention he is a clutch free-throw shooter.
James Keefe (Loyola)
2019, PF, 6-foot-8, 210 pounds
Joel’s Take: Keefe is one of the better sleeper prospects around and that comes as no surprise as his dad (Adam) and mom (Kristin) were stud athletes at Stanford. James, like his father, is a heck of a basketball prospect as well. He is an exceptional athlete who is tough to handle on the block (his turn around jump shot is impeccable), can finish with either hand, and he can knock down elbow jump shots. He has the length, soft hands, and frame to blossom into a Division 1 four-man.
Cyrus Johnson (Culver City)
2018, PF, 6-foot-5, 215 pounds
Joel’s Take: Beast is one of the first descriptions that come immediately to mind when describing Johnson. The youngest son of NBA HOF Marques Johnson has a game of his own. Johnson can operate on the block using his strength, bounce, and evolving skill set. He has a sweet jump hook where he gets great elevation and he can knock in the 17-foot jump shot. His forte, however, is the work he gets done in the paint. He knows how to carve out space, use his strong frame, and basketball IQ to convert play after play. A definite sleeper in the Class of 2018.