2019 Washington Prospect Pre-Season Rankings
High school basketball season is less than one week away in Washington state. Rainier Beach, Gonzaga Prep and Federal Way High School are all nationally ranked heading into the 2018-2019 season. A handful of other teams have a legitimate shot at winning their classification’s state title. This should come as no surprise, as the 2019 class is loaded with college prospects of all levels all throughout the state. Heading into the winter season, here are the top seniors Washington has to offer.
Quick Preview of Top 5 Seniors:
Jaden McDaniels, Federal Way HS- At 6’9 with guard skills, McDaniels is one of the most sought after recruits in the country. The Federal Way Eagle is looking to lead his school to its third state title game in his four years. As a freshman, his team took home the gold ball, but the memory of losing to Gonzaga Prep in his junior year is probably more significant and will give him extra motivation heading into his final year of high school basketball. Jaden is the only uncommitted senior in the top five and is down to Kentucky, UW, San Diego State, Texas and UCLA.
Anton Watson, Gonzaga Prep HS- The high energy hustle player has fundamental skills to match. At 6’8, Watson is a load to handle on the glass and possibly the most difficult matchup in the state when it comes to keeping him off the boards. He does not solely rely on his athleticism or length when rebounding, as he is very physical on his block-outs. Anton showed an impressive shooting touch at the state tourney and it carried over to the summer. He will be staying in Spokane to attend Gonzaga University.
RaeQuan Battle, Marysville-Pilchuck HS- As one Seattle Rotary coach told me, “He’s a pro”. Mr. Battle blew up on the scene after a great spring and summer as a member of Seattle Rotary’s EYBL squad. He impressed scouts with his deep ball and elite athleticism, even going viral on social media for some of his dunks in traffic. RaeQuan did his job this summer garnering offers from schools all throughout the country, but his next challenge is to lead Marysville-Pilchuck to the 3A state tourney. RaeQuan will attend the University of Washington for the 2019-2020 season.
Brock Ravet, Kittitas HS- One of the most decorated 2B players in Washington’s history. Brock is a lights out shooter that can penetrate and make plays as well. Washington’s reigning Gatorade State Player of the Year averaged 31 points, 9 assists, 8.8 rebounds and 3.3 steals per game last season. Brock is aiming to lead Kittitas to a third consecutive 2B state championship. Playing with Washington Supreme on the Under Armour Circuit helped prepare him well for the high level competition he will see playing at Gonzaga University in a year.
Cole Bajema, Lynden Christian HS- Lynden Christian’s hometown hero is coming off a huge summer with Friends of Hoop. His recruiting skyrocketed thanks to his stellar play against some top notch club teams. At 6’7 with length and shooting range, Bajema has all of the tools to make a serious impact at the next level. Last year’s Lynden Christian team finished 26-1 on their way to the 1A state title. They will look to repeat this season. Bajema caught the eye of many schools this summer, but has decided the University of Michigan would be the best fit for him.
Without further ado, we introduce the class of 2019 pre-season rankings!