Some diamonds-in-rough sparkle in Rozier League playoffs
Some diamonds-in-the-rough flashed during the July 11 playoff games in the Terry Rozier Summer League playoffs.
One such player was Warrensville’s Aundray Farmer (2019), a 6’2” shooting guard, who would appear to have the shooting stroke, physique and grit to play at college basketball at some level.
Warrensville was playing without highly-touted Brandon Rush (2019) and Ramelle Arnold (2021) who both missed the game because of AAU commitments. Their absence provided a stage for Farmer to shine. Several times during the second half Farmer freed himself up to knock down three-pointers in what turned out to be a 44-39 Warrensville win. He also displayed an ability to handle the ball out front, defend and rebound before leaving the game early with a sprained left foot.
Farmer, who didn’t start as junior but did play varsity minutes, most importantly knows how to get open.
“I look for my point guards to set me up. I get to my hot spots and hit my open shots,” said Farmer.
In addition to shooting, Farmer concentrates on rebounding and “hustle plays.” He’s also an intense competitor.
“I don’t like to lose,” said Farmer, a two-sport athlete who plays wide receiver on the football team.
Warrensville’s summer league coach Dominic Mann coached Farmer in middle school as well as high school. Farmer’s always been able to shoot it, Mann said, but he’s now developing other parts of his game.
“He wakes up with a chip on his shoulder. Sometimes you have to calm him down, but the good thing is he listens. His confidence oozes in his jump shot. If he knocks one down he thinks he can knock the next five down,” said Mann.
Manny Hill (2020) of Cleveland Heights played well in the loss. The 5’11” guard hit some tough jump shots, handle against pressure and was able to get to the basket in transition.
“Scoring the ball is the strength of my game,” said Hill. “I’m starting to pick up my defense more.”
Hill is the younger brother of Yahel Hill (2018), who was ranked No. 27 in his class by Prephoops.com.
In the second game of the night, Bedford knocked off Lorain in overtime.
Chaze Harris (2021), a 6-foot guard for Bedford was very impressive. Time after time he was able to break down the defense and score. He also had a nice jump shot and a great feel for the game.
He’s spent the summer lifting weights and working out.
His late layup in regulation forced overtime and he finished with 18 points.
Lorain’s Jordan Jackson (2020) impressed as well. At 6’4” he can orchestrate the offense from out top where he can either slash to the basket or hit the deep jump shot. He’s very crafty with his handle and can start and stop his dribble at a very high level. He also can find the open man via creative passing angles.