Adidas Three Stripes (2019 Point/Combo Guards)
Here is a look at the top Class of 2019 point/combo guards from the Adidas Three Stripes at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo.
Kevin Jones 5’11” Gateway 17U
The strong point guard from Sikeston played his normal aggressive game at both ends of the court. He takes on the challenge of guarding people and will pick his man up anywhere on the floor. He is strong and physical and will muscle his way to the basket or pull for perimeter jumpers effectively. He never cheats you in the effort department.
Tayari Goodwin 5’10” Arsenal Hoops 17U
The speedy point guard from Parkway North had a very consistent weekend in helping his team to the Gold Division championship. He didn’t start the games, but he did an excellent job of changing the flow when he entered the game with his shooting and increased tempo. His 3-point shooting was very good and he was good in the transition game.
Lawrence Brazil 5’11” Jets-Ramey United 17U
A standout guard from Belleville West (IL) who does a very good job as a facilitator and scorer who can make plays for everyone. He is a good shooter who ramp up his level of play as the games are closer and more hotly contested down the stretch. He is a tough defender with a quick set of hands as well.
Trent Champagne 6’3″ TEM Select 17U
The big combo guard from St. Charles West had a solid weekend, including a 14-point performance in the semifinals against Team Rose. He shot the ball well, hitting 3-pointers in that game. He is a solid ball handler with good size and the rhythm pull up 15 footer in his arsenal. He did a good job of handling the ball against pressure throughout the weekend.
Chanze Cruesoe 6’1″ Arsenal Hoops 17U
A solid point guard from Vashon who is at his best when he can penetrate to the basket. Instead of blowing by defenders with speed, he does an excellent job of changing speeds and directions with a variety of herky-jerky moves. He’s constantly keeping defenders off balance and guessing. He dropped many nice dimes off his dribble penetration.
Dezi Jones 5’9″ Knights Basketball
It was my first time seeing this high-scoring guard from Hannibal in person and he did a good job playing both backcourt positions. He has good quickness and has the ability to slash to the basket and score from a variety of angles. If you back up on him, he will knock down a 3-pointer to keep him honest.
Mekai Ray 5’8″ St. Louis Majestics
The point guard from McCluer North was one of the most valuable players in the event and he didn’t play one second all weekend. He was out with a back injury and his absence was very noticeable as this very talented team struggled throughout the weekend without his quickness and leadership at the point. I never write about a player who didn’t participate in an event, but his absence was profound that it was worth mentioning.