IMG Academy goes undefeated at ARS National Hoopfest
IMG Academy traveled from Bradenton, Florida all the way to Texas to play in the ARS Rescue Rooter National Hoopfest in Dallas. Their trip was successful as they left Waxahachie High School with two wins added onto their record. On Friday night, MaxPreps’ number three ranked team in the country squeezed by the Desoto Eagles with a 66-61 win. The next day, they beat the Indians of Waxahachie in their home gym 74-59 after pulling away in the second half. It was my first time seeing the highly regarded nationally ranked prospects in person. Here are the stars who shined for IMG Academy this past weekend:
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl / 6’9″ / PF / IMG Academy (Shawnee Mission, KS) / 2019
Robinson-Earl had a solid weekend in Dallas and is definitely a great get for Villanova. He will give them consistent production at the four spot. This weekend, he used his length to defend, rebound, and score in the paint. The polished big with great hands is currently making a strong case for a burger boy slot.
Armando Bacot Jr. / 6’10″ / C / IMG Academy (Richmond, VA) / 2019
Bacot came on strong with an efficient first night at the Hoopfest. His elite finishing ability around the basket and above the rim was on display. DeSoto could not do anything with him 15 feet and within. He has a wide body that allows him to get physical and win the battle on the glass. Bacot also runs the floor and possesses great footwork with his back to the basket. The Virginia native will be a solid addition to North Carolina next year.
Josh Green / 6’6″ / SG / IMG Academy / 2019
Green had a quiet first night vs. Desoto, but picked it back up 24 hours later. The Arizona signee is a broad shouldered swingman with nice athleticism. He showcased his jumper from deep by draining four threes against Waxahachie. Arizona will be a problem in the PAC 12 with him and Nico Mannion in the backcourt.
Jaden Springer / 6’4″ / SG / IMG Academy (Charlotte, NC) / 2020
Springer is a wing with cut-up arms and a great basketball frame. He plays hard and is always looking to slash to the basket. The consensus top-ten player in the junior class is a quick leaper who explodes to the rim and makes something happen. He is an elite finisher because of his physical gifts and athletic ability. Springer also displayed an in-between game, which he will need to continue to develop as time progresses.
Jarace Walker / 6’6″ / SF / IMG Academy (New Freedom, PA) / 2022
He has the body (broad shoulders), size or basketball frame of a college freshman after a summer of weight training. But in all actuality, Jarace Walker is a high school freshman who is an athletically gifted physical specimen with unbelievable intangibles. Once his skillset matches his physical gifts, he will be a problem.