Francisco’s Finest: Double Pump Spring Hoop Fest (2021 Standouts)
Francisco’s Finest: Double Pump Spring Hoop Fest (2021 Standouts)
ANAHEIM, CA—The Double Pump Spring Hoop Fest was light on the “Big Names”, but it did give us a glimpse of the future of basketball in the Southern California region. BTI Prospects have a promising backcourt in 2021’s Kenneth Simpson Jr. and Keith Higgins Jr. while The Truth received terrific performances from Keith Dinwiddie and DJ Davis. Here is a look at some of the other standouts from this event.
Kenneth Simpson Jr. (Chaminade) Club Team: BTI Prospects
2021, CG, 6-foot-1, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: Simpson Jr. is a clever penetrator who gets into the lane and can finish with either hand. In addition, he can step out and nail the 3-point shot. He shows a solid burst and he can change speeds, but there were times he had his head down while penetrating—leading to some turnovers.
Keith Higgins Jr. (Chaminade) Club Team: BTI Prospects
2021, CG, 6-foot-1, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: Higgins hovers around the perimeter converting 3-point shots at a consistent rate. He gets nice lift on his shot and is quite potent coming off screens or nailing the pull-up shot. He is a good athlete who can finish in transition and over length. Continuing to mold his playmaking skills will enhance his all-around game.
Christian Johnson (View Park) Club Team: Cal Supreme 16U EYBL
2021, PG, 5-foot-10, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: There were not too many guard-types that play with the urgency of Johnson. The thick point guard is a bull going to the basket, finishes through contact, and he delivered some nice assists as well. Defensively, he slides his feet well and has tremendous strength and active hands.
Jahmal Mashack (Etiwanda) Club Team: Prodigy 17 Elite
2021, WF, 6-foot-4, 190 pounds
Joel’s Take: It’s no surprise that Etiwanda has another contingent of prospects coming up through the ranks as the terrific 2018 Class heads to greener pastures. One of those potential studs is the high-flying Mashack. The chiseled wing plays with great energy at both ends of the floor and has the bounce to dunk over opponents and the instincts to snag some steals. His ball skills against pressure and jump shot need refining, but he is a promising talent.
Garrett Andre (Foothill) Club Team: Cali Rebels 15U Elite
2021, C, 6-foot-9, 200 pounds
Joel’s Take: Like most “bigs” it takes time and Andre is no different. He willowy “big” needs considerable strength, but he has excellent feet, soft hands, and solid instincts. He shows a nice touch in the paint and even out to the elbow. Will definitely be watching his progress over the next few seasons.