Francisco’s Finest: Take Flight Challenge (Stock Raisers)
Francisco’s Finest: Take Flight Challenge (Stock Raisers) REDONDO BEACH, CA—The Take Flight Challenge, hosted by Redondo Union High School, is chock full of outstanding teams and individual talent. There were a number of fine performances throughout day two of the…
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Continue ReadingFrancisco’s Finest: Take Flight Challenge (Stock Raisers)
REDONDO BEACH, CA—The Take Flight Challenge, hosted by Redondo Union High School, is chock full of outstanding teams and individual talent. 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.
Kobe Stroughter (Liberty/NV)
2021, PG, 6-foot-1, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: Stroughter has some Kendall Marshall (UNC/NBA Player) in his game. Stroughter doesn’t advance the ball as well as Marshall, but the slick lefty has impeccable vision and crafty ball handling skills. His length and quickness are impressive physical tools and the uncanny passing should deliver a D1 scholarship sooner rather than later.
Kevin Bethel (Westchester)
2019, PG, 6-foot-1, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: It’s hard to standout when the majority of your teammates are talented guard types, but Bethel has shown enough to warrant some college interest. He has the frame, quickness and speed, as well as the ball skills to be a college guard. His shot is solid, but it’s his passing—both in transiton as well as in transition—that should catapult him to at least the D II level.
Keith Higgins Jr. (Chaminade)
2021, CG, 6-foot, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: Higgins is part of a dynamic young back court at Chaminade along with Kenneth Simpson Jr. The wiry Higgins has quick feet, solid length, and he is a knock down shooter. He handles the ball well in the open court, but improving his shot selection and ability to make others better will elevate his stock.
Mason Hooks (Harvard-Westlake)
2020, C, 6-foot-10, 250 pounds
Joel’s Take: Hooks is a massive 5-man who has improved his mobility and foot work in the paint. He seals well on the block and can score over either shoulder via the jump hook. He runs well for his size and he can finish in transition. His touch from the elbow is impressive and he does a nice job carving out space in the paint area to either rebound, defend, or score on the block.
Isaiah Johnson (Bishop Montgomery)
2020, PF, 6-foot-6, 210 pounds
Joel’s Take: Johnson is bouncy 4-man who reminds us of former Cal standout Jamal Boykin. He sprints the floor (fluid runner), has quick feet, and is instinctive around the rim. On the block he shows solid footwork and can finish through contact. He can attack off the bounce and is a willing passer. To take his game to a new level, his perimeter jump shot needs refining.