Francisco’s Finest: JUCO-Bound (Top Wings)
Francisco’s Finest: JUCO-Bound (Top Wings)
LONG BEACH, CA— As the playoffs come to a close and underclassmen are checking out their options for the spring evaluation period, it seemed like the appropriate time to list—and it’s quite an extensive list—of the kids that may not be receiving the college interest they desire, but are fully capable of making an impact at the junior college level. Here are the list of players that caught our attention during this high school season and possess the physical tools and/or skill to play at some level college after a junior college stint.
Jaishon Forte (Rancho Verde)
2018, WF, 6-foot-4, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Forte exploded onto the scene at The Classic at Damien where he led his Rancho Verde squad to some impressive victories. He’s an athletic wing who affects the game with his athleticism, rebounding, and shooting. He has that prototypical wing frame with long arms and he is assertive at both ends of the floor. His shot is streaky, but he can score inside-and-out. Definite D1 future.
Zellie Hudson (Westchester)
2018, WF, 6-foot-5, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: If there ever was a poster child for the glue-type of player—Hudson would be on it. The willowy wing-type impacts the game with his defensive prowess, rebounding, and a high motor. His ball skills haven’t quite caught up with his impressive frame and bouncy nature, but he has the tools and mindset to be a Division 1 player someday.
Lemar Wright (Murrieta Mesa)
2018, WF, 6-foot-6, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: Wright is one of the bigger sleepers in Southern California. He is raw, but potentially he could evolve into a college-level wing. He can slash his way to the rim for the finish or step outside and pop in the 3-pointer. Due to his length and nimble feet, he should—with added strength of course—evolve into a lock-down perimeter defender.
Jordan Griffin (Narbonne)
2018, WF, 6-foot-4, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: The willowy Griffin shows flashes of a potential D 1 prospect someday. He needs to add strength, but his ball skills and passing ability are quite good. His shot is solid in the mid-range area, but he needs to get that stroke consistent out to 20-feet to improve his stock. Definitely an intriguing prospect for the next level.
Isaiah Knox (Rancho Christian)
2018, SG/WF, 6-foot-3, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: Strong and physical, yet has the soft touch to drain deep 3-pointers. His shot can be streaky, but he finishes well in transition and he plays with purpose and energy each time out. He needs to improve his half-court scoring skills (1st step), but he has become a much more complete player each season.
Hunter Woods (Muir)
2018, WF, 6-foot-6, 195 pounds
Joel’s Take: The chiseled left-hander has extraordinary long arms and can score in bunches. His 3-point shot doesn’t possess textbook mechanics but he can nail a few in a row. He pounds the glass utilizing his length and timing. Although he has a solid 1st step he needs to improve his ball handling against tight pressure—especially his off hand (right).