Francisco’s Finest: The Classic at Damien (Sleepers)
Francisco’s Finest: The Classic at Damien (Sleepers) LA VERNE, CA.—Frank Burlison and the Damien staff did an outstanding job of gathering the best collection of talent in the West for this holiday season. In the previous reports we focused on…
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Continue ReadingFrancisco’s Finest: The Classic at Damien (Sleepers)
LA VERNE, CA.—Frank Burlison and the Damien staff did an outstanding job of gathering the best collection of talent in the West for this holiday season. In the previous reports we focused on the standouts. However, these next reports wel focus on the stock raisers (Liam Woodrum), sleepers (Evan Oliver), and Biggest Revelations (Brenton Knapper).
Pierce Sterling (Riverside/Notre Dame)
2019, PG, 6-foot-1, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: Notre Dame out of Riverside has a senior-laden team and much of the praise goes to Anthony Holland, Dondre Bausley, and Anton Mozga—and rightfully so. However, the catalyst to many of their victories has been the adjustment Sterling has made while manning the point guard position. The slick lefty was known as just a spot-up shooter last season, but this season he is doing an outstanding job of exhibiting his combination guard skills—most notabley his improved playmaking ability.
Evan Oliver (Riverside Poly)
2020, SG, 6-foot-2, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: “Fearless” is the first description that comes to mind when describing the game of Oliver. This young gunslinger has the “green” light and his shot is always in flight when he gets the chance. He has a good first step, has an elvolving middle game, and his a scorer’s scorer.
Josh Assiff (Valencia)
2019, WF, 6-foot-6, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: After watching Assiff a few games, his greatest gift right now is his leadership on the court. He talks very well, especially on the defensive end. Offensively, he is almost too unselfish as he passes up scoring opportunities to set up teammates. However, playing through contact is his biggest hurdle going forward.
Denim Dawson-James (Colony)
2021, WF, 6-foot-5, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: This young thoroughbred is a potential diamond in the rough. He has that prototypical length with long arms and he’s an explosive athlete. He has an explosive first step and can finish well-above the the rim. His jump shot needs refining, but he plays hard at both ends of the floor.
Richard Kawakami (Valencia)
2019, CG, 6-foot-4, 190 pounds
Joel’s Take: Josh Assiff and Jaylen Trower may be the better prospects at this stage, but Kawakami is the MVP of this team. He quarterbacks the offense, is mentally tough, and can makes plays at all three levels. A true winner.
Colby Waite (Anaheim/Canyon)
2019, WF, 6-foot-7, 195 pounds
Joel’s Take: In this “position-less” world of our current game, Waite fits like a glove. The pick-and-pop 4-man has an ideal frame with broad shoulders and overall good length. However, it’s his ability to knock in the 3-point shot with impeccable mechanics that catches our eye.