January Player of the Month: David DeJulius (2018)
A couple of the nominations changed, but the results stayed the same. Fans, coaches, and players voted David DeJulius (2018, PG, EEVP) the January Player of the Month. He was also voted December Player of the Month. DeJulius received 56% of the votes. Brandon Wade (2018, PG, Skyline) finished in second notching 24% of the vote. The lone junior in the voting, Rocket Watts (2019, G, Old Redford) pulled in 12% of the votes. In fourth place was Brandon Johns (2018, F, East Lansing). He received 8% of the votes.
BRANDON JOHNS:
Johns continues to show what a special talent he is. He averages a double-double (just under 30ppg) and may be one of the most versatile athletes nationwide. Johns has the combination of size and athleticism that can’t be taught. He can play and guard multiple positions creating match up nightmares statewide. In a deep Class A, he has his team in the Top 10 and primed to make a run come the state playoffs. The University of Michigan commit has shown great improvement in his aggressiveness this season, especially on the offensive end.
ROCKET WATTS:
Let’s just say that Watts was lighting up opponents throughout the month of January. He had multiple 40 point games (against Michigan Collegiate and Cornerstone) and a handful of 30+ point games. In typical Rocket Watts fashion, he rose to the occasion in his biggest match up. Old Redford lost a tight game against undefeated Skyline, and Watts went shot for shot with fellow star Brandon Wade. He had 32 points, 6 assists, and 3 steals, while cementing his position among the greats in Michigan high school basketball. Watts will be a front runner in next seasons race for Mr. Basketball.
BRANDON WADE:
Wade is a prime example of consistency. Every time he steps on the court, Wade shows up and plays big. He has led his team to an undefeated season thus far, and topped Old Redford and Rocket Watts in the month of January. Wade is one of the best leaders in Michigan. He sets a standard for his team and his teammates respect him. Wade contributes in all facets of the game and averages 23ppg, 7apg, 4rpg, and 4spg. Wade is a scorer and a finisher. He can get buckets at all three levels and shoots at a high percentage. Wade has proven this season that Duquesne has a gem showing up on campus in the fall.
DAVID DEJULIUS:
DeJulius is putting together an all time great season. In Michigan’s deepest class in recent memory, DeJulius has risen to the top. The University of Michigan commit has shown greatness both on and off the court. DeJulius is a score first point guard who can light up the scoreboard. He will also find teammates and pass them into scoring position. He has the size and strength to compete at UofM right away. DeJulius appears ready to follow in the footsteps of Derrick Walton Jr., the last Detroit point guard to play for the Wolverines.
”We have bonded as a team like none other. Everyone is confident. We’re trusting one another. My teammates trust me to lead us to victory. That’s all I can as for. We are our brothers keeper.” –David DeJulius