Recruiting Report: Evan Nelson (2020)
Despite going 15-16, Salpointe was able to make it to the state championship game in 4A. In fact, they not only made it there, but led by nearly 30 points over one of the nation’s top teams prior to losing.
While there were a lot of storylines in regards to why Salpointe struggled to live up to the expectations that were set for them for a good portion of the season, one of the biggest was Evan Nelson. Nelson transferred into Salpointe which meant that he had to miss the first half of the season. Upon his arrival, Salpointe played at a much higher level.
Nelson, a 6’2 2020 PG, is one of the top prospects in the state despite only being a junior. His ability to create for himself and others is special. He can score the basketball from anywhere on the floor and he understands how to get others involved in positions where they can experience success.
Salpointe will be a contender in the top heavy and skilled 4A classification. Nelson is a huge part of that. Nelson will be paired with talented 2019 prospect Majok Deng.
Evan Nelson College Interest
Due to Nelson’s strong off-season, he has earned multiple offers. The potential suitors at this point include Rice, UC Davis, UCSB, UC Irvine, Utah Valley, New Mexico, GCU, Duquense, Houston Baptist, and Portland State
In addition to plenty of offers, he has interest from Davidson, Nevada, Stanford, Utah, Arizona, Valparaiso, Loyola Chicago, and Colorado State.
Nelson is looking for a school where he can get a “great education” and experience a “family like atmosphere within the team.” Further, he wants a program that has good player development.
Colleges are interested in Nelson because he makes people around him better. He understands how to play the game and makes the simple plays. Further, he has improved his ability to shoot it from deep. When he gets going, he can score the basketball as well as anyone.
Nelson will have plenty more offers and will have plenty of success at the next level.
Evan Nelson Projection
Nelson is a mid-major NCAA Division-I prospect who could play a slightly higher level. He has good length and athleticism. Further, he does all of the little things.
He plays the game with a maturity that is much higher than that of a typical high school point guard. His feel for the game is incredible as he might be one of the top guards in the state at using on ball screens.
As his shot continues to improve and stay consistent, Nelson’s stock will continue to climb. If he shoots the basketball like he did at the Bash in the Desert, he will be ready to make an impact at the next level right away.