Francisco’s Finest: Class of 2018 (Stock Raisers)
Francisco’s Finest: Class of 2018 (Stock Raisers)
Summary: Each and every season there are a collection of players that take their game to a new level, and this group is not exception. Whether exhibiting improved production or implementing a new skill to their respective arsenals, this group of cagers definitely left a mark on our eyes during the season.
Kessler Edwards (Etiwanda)
2018, PF, 6-foot-7, 210 pounds
Joel’s Take: Edwards could have easily been on the “college-ready” list, but I felt he needed to belong here. He has been a known product since the 9th grade, but his progression has been slow and steady. Each season he has improved his all-around game. His jump shot has been consistent and he is a consistently productive rebounder in and out of his area. Not too mention his court demeanor and overall feel for the game are high-level.
Cameron Shelton (Damien)
2018, PG, 6-foot-2, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: Shelton may have won the “Biggest Motor” award if there was one in So-Cal. Oh, what the heck, I’ll give it to him. The Northern Arizona-bound point guard affects the game with his tenacity, playmaking ability, and athletic prowess. He needs to improve his outside stroke, but due to his work ethic, that should not be an issue.
Elijah Harkless (Etiwanda)
2018, CG, 6-foot-3, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Along with Andre Ball, there might not have been a more improved player in all of Southern California than Harkless. He impacts the game in a number of ways including assertiveness at both ends, budding skill, and the ability to play multiple positions. Whether it was knocking in a 3-ball, suffocating opponents with his length and active hands, or slashing his way to the rim in transition, Harkless does it all.
Darryl Polk (Long Beach Poly)
2018, PG, 5-foot-8, 145 pounds
Joel’s Take: Polk is arguably the quickest point guard in the West. The slick lefty is a blur in transition, delivers timely assists, and is a menace on the defensive end. His jump shot has improved in the past year and he is finishing over length at a much more consistent rate. If he doesn’t bag a D 1 scholarship soon, I’ll be shocked.
Jamal Hartwell (Fairfax)
2018, 5-foot-10, 145 pounds
Joel’s Take: Hartwell is yet another guard who has improved each and every season. He shows good speed and quickness and his pull-up jump shot is a weapon. He can run high screen and roll and deliver the nice assist, but he needs to improve his ability to finish over length and through contact at the next level. Defensively, he slides his feet well and is an active defender.
Dawson Baker (Capistrano Valley)
2018, CG, 6-foot-3, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: This jack-of-all-trades guard was one of favorite players to evaluate this season. He literally did everything for his team this season from running the offense to scoring at a high rate. He is tough to stop off the dribble and his passing prowess is impressive. He can finish with either hand as well, but the key to his game will be the continued improvement of his jump shot. A true winner.