#HardworkSZNKickoff: Mason’s Top Forwards
This past weekend was the #HardworkSZNKickoff and there was talent all over the gym. In this article, I’ll look at the top five forwards that I saw, regardless of class. This is performance based off of the games that I saw, not a talent based list.
John Shanklin – 6’8 – 2020 – Team Factory Gold 2020 (NE)
Shanklin really impressed this past weekend on a really good Team Factory Gold team. He’s pretty mobile and has the ability to stretch his game out to the perimeter. Shanklin carries a high motor and is always moving without the ball to get open. Solid footwork in the post allows him to score at the basket as well. Could see his stock rise this summer with continued solid play.
Javier Turner – 6’9 – 2020 – Team Factory Gold 2020 (NE)
Turner is a very intriguing piece who I really enjoyed watching this past weekend. He’s still kind of raw but has a ton of physical tools. He holds the ability to handle the ball as well as bring it up the court at times. Turner is an athletic kid who is continually working on his game and this past weekend showed glimpses of what his potential might be. Lots of upside with Turner who will probably stick in the post at the next level.
Tremear Fraley – 6’9 – 2020 – Team RWA (IL) 2020
Fraley is pretty much a wing, but I can see him being a guy that floats between the 3/4 throughout college. Super mobile and athletic kid who runs the floor really well in transition. He’s a player who has loads of upside once he develops a consistent jumper but all of the intangibles are there for him to be a really high level player. He’s going to tear it up this summer with Team RWA.
Dei Jengmer – 6’8 – 2021 – Team Factory Gold 2021 (NE)
Jengmer was a solid force on the inside for this Team Factory Gold team this past weekend. He loves to beat around in the post and get physical with guys. Jengmer also has the ability to step out and make a shot when the situation calls for it. Good rebounder who is able to high point the ball really well. Jengmer quickly gets his vision up the floor for the outlet pass which starts the transition game. Once he puts it all together he might be one of the better players in the state.
Brady Helgren – 6’6 – 2022 – Minnesota Fury 2022 (MN)
Helgren was simply an intriguing kid. Tons of length and moves really well with his body. He has a little bit of tough around the rim and has the ability to stretch the floor just a bit. Runs the floor well and gets into good spots to score on the offensive end, but also has the vision to set his teammates up for easy baskets. Adding strength is going to really help elevate his potential.