Double Pump Summer Tip Off: Francisco’s Surprises
Double Pump Summer Tip Off: Francisco’s Surprises
ANAHEIM, CA—The Double Pump Summer Tip Off had teams from most of the West Coast including an intriguing team out of Oregon—Fly Select Williams. With all the major shoe companies coveting most of the elite talent, there were a few gems to be had at this event including fast-rising combo-guard Jarred Hyder and sophomore sensation— Jahmai Mashak out of famed Etiwanda High School.
Brantly Stevenson (Etiwanda) Club Team: Prodigy Elite
2020, SG, 6-foot-3, 165 pounds
Stevenson has a lot of upside at the 2 or the 3 due to his athleticism and improved shot.Joel’s Take: Head Coach Dave Kleckner graduated a bevy of talent, but the cup is far from bare at Etiwanda. Steveneson is one of those young thoroughbreds that is exhibiting the physical tools to be a Division 1 player someday. The wiry 2-guard is explosive in transition, can deliver the timely pass, or slither his way to the rim. His jump shot is playable, but developing a more consistent shot will elevate his stock. Defensively, he slides his feet very well and he has active hands.
Ifeanyi Okeke (Damien) Club Team: Prodigy Elite
2019, WF, 6-foot-6, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: One of the biggest sleepers in So-Cal is definitely Okeke. The long-armed positionless wing-type affects the game at both ends due to his length and motor. He can guard multiple positions and he slides his feet well. In the paint this bouncy athlete gets numerous tip-ins and put-backs despite being slight of built.
Alexander Cartwright (Murrietta Valley) Club Team: IEBP All Stars
2018, PF, 6-foot-9, 225 pounds
Joel’s Take: After watching Cartwright, I was bit shocked to see he had not garnerd any college interest. The bouncy 4/5 with broad shoulders and long arms showed an excellent touch out to 17-feet and an ability to score over his left shoulder. Not too mention he would be a bit more productive if the guards he was playing with would give him more touches.
Shaden Knight (Rancho Cucamonga) Club Team: Prodigy Elite
2019, PG, 5-foot-10, 150 pounds
Joel’s Take: The slick lefty point guard is a bit undersized and he needs to get stronger to take on physical defenders, but his overall game is tight. He pushes well in transition, snaps passes to open shooters, and his crossover is tight and quick.
Mathew Kroner (Chiawana/OR) Club Team: Fly Select Williams
2019, PF, 6-foot-8, 225 pounds
Joel’s Take: The burly 4-man is all about production. He isn’t overly bouncy, but he knows how to carve out space and pursue the ball. He shows good hands, solid feet, and his motor runs hot. He can score on the block utilizing the jump hook or drop step. “Blue-collar” would be the best way to describe this probable Division III or quite possibly NAIA player.