Francisco’s Finest: Take Flight Challenge (Day 2 Standouts/Part 1)
Francisco’s Finest: Take Flight Challenge (Day 2 Standouts/Part 1) REDONDO BEACH, CA—There were a number of fine performances throughout day two of the Take Flight Challenge—but none were more impressive than 2020 Ziaire Williams terrific all-around game (33-points, 15 rebounds,…
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Continue ReadingFrancisco’s Finest: Take Flight Challenge (Day 2 Standouts/Part 1)
REDONDO BEACH, CA—There were a number of fine performances throughout day two of the Take Flight Challenge—but none were more impressive than 2020 Ziaire Williams terrific all-around game (33-points, 15 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 blocks). Sophomore Kenneth Simpson Jr. (Chaminade), junior Devin Tillis (Windward), and Oregon State-bound Jarod Lucas (Los Altos) put together fine performances as well.
Ryan Blackmon (Culver City)
2019, SG, 6-foot, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: Blackmon is a fast-rising senior who is a relentless scorer. The strong lefty has a solid burst, keeps his head up, and is a crafty scorer in the lane. He does a nice job warding off defenders with his thick frame, changes speeds well, and can knock in the deep 3-ball. One to watch in the spring.
Kenneth Simpson Jr. (Chaminade)
2021, CG, 6-foot-2, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: Simpson is one of the better two-way guards in the West for his class. The gifted combo-guard creates plays off the bounce (solid burst), finds teammates in the paint, and can drain the deep jump shot. A true competitor at both ends of the floor.
Devin Tillis (Windward)
2020, WF, 6-foot-6, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: Tillis continues to round into shape after suffering a devastating injury a season ago. The best way to describe Tillis is “basketball player.” He has a feathery touch from the perimeter, is an astute passer, and solid rebounder despite not having great bounce.
Jarod Lucas (Los Altos)
2019, SG, 6-foot-3, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Lucas is creeping up the All Time Scoring List in California and his 42-point effort versus Leuzinger was terrific. He played at his relentless pace, attacked at will, and converted a number of shots in traffic. Overall, one of the better offensive performances I’ve seen him play during his career.
Dylan Andrews (Windward)
2022, SG, 6-foot-2, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: Andrews plays well beyond that freshman label. His confidence is awe-inspiring as he weaves his way through defenses with crafty moves and nifty ball handling. He’s a scorer first and foremost and he can get buckets from all three levels. He has a tendency to “pound” the ball too much, but overall he’s a talent.