Jayhawk Invitational: Top youngsters (2021)
Jayhawk Invitational: Top youngsters (2021)
OVERLAND PARK, Kan.— Prep Hoops Kansas takes a look at several young players who stood out at last weekend’s Jayhawk Invitational in Kansas City.
Max Alexander, 5’11, G, 2021, McPherson HS, Pray N Play
Alexander is a sneaky defender who can who can steal the ball when opponents least expect it. He has a high basketball IQ and good court awareness for his age. Alexander likes to rebound and score near the basket. He can find his rhythm from behind the 3-point line, but he pursues high percentage shots. An intelligent guard who continues to impress.
Tanner Bates, 6’3, G, 2021, KC Piper, KC Run GMC 15U
One of the better young guards in Kansas, Bates is a smooth player with a long build and the ability to play much bigger than his listed height. He is a creative ball handler, a terrific leader at the point and can see the court and make the right pass.
Ja’Ron Byrd, 6’3 F, 2021, Bishop Ward, Marcus Denmon Elite, 2021
Byrd has an excellent paint presence on both sides of the floor. He has a strong frame, good size and the athleticism to punish opponents on the block. Byrd can score with defenders surrounding him. He’s strong enough to force his way to the basket and smart enough to sell contact.
Jack Chapman, 6’5, G, 2021, Blue Valley Northwest, KC Run GMC 15U
Chapman plays with a big motor and is in constant attack mode. He has a natural feel for the game, plays with a high basketball IQ and shows good leadership qualities. He consistently beats opponents by staying in constant motion off the ball, and with the ball he is capable of making plays off the bounce, finding open teammates or hitting the open shot. Chapman is at his best attacking the basket where he is a terrific finisher.
Jackie Johnson, 5’9, PG, Wichita, KC Run GMC 16U
Playing up an age group with the 2020 class, Wichita’s Jackie Johnson showed he’s as good a 2021 guard as there is in the state. He is blessed with elite quickness and playmaking skills. and while he isn’t very big, but that doesn’t affect his game much. On Friday he blew past defenders and got to the basket whenever he wanted against xx and showed the ability to finish around bigger players at the rim, or drop off passes to open teammates for easy looks. Mix in deep range from beyond the 3-point arc and Johnson has the makings of an elite prospect.
Zeke Mayo, 6’3, G, 2021, Lawrence, KC Run GMC 15U
Mayo is a long, rangy guard with a fluid jumper that stretches well beyond the 3-point arc. He can handle the ball, play both guard spots and is a creative passer who sees the floor and finds the open man.