Prospect Spotlight: 2021 Casey Jones (Eastlake HS)
One of Washington’s fastest rising stars is sophomore Casey Jones of Eastlake High School. I have been fortunate to have witnessed Casey’s growth and development dating back to his 5th grade year. Casey has been talented for years, but it…
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Continue ReadingOne of Washington’s fastest rising stars is sophomore Casey Jones of Eastlake High School. I have been fortunate to have witnessed Casey’s growth and development dating back to his 5th grade year. Casey has been talented for years, but it is always difficult to project how someone’s games will grow and eventually translate at not only the high school level, but as a college prospect. Two years into his high school career, Casey has proven that his talent an early age was no fluke. In his sophomore season, Casey was the Kingco 4A leading scorer and rebounder at 20.4 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. He was also the league leader in free throws made and attempted. He’s already caught the attention of some Division 1 schools along the west coast and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Casey put on an absolute show when he led Eastlake to an upset victory over Tacoma powerhouse, Lincoln High School. From three pointers to aggressive dunks in the paint, it was apparent that Casey was a budding college prospect. At 6’5, with a 6’8 wing span, he has good size and length to play the 3 position, but he did mention that he is really focusing on his ability to play the 2 as well. Casey mentioned, “By the time the July viewing period comes I want my 2-guard skills to be better along with becoming more efficient in my scoring.” The true definition of a slasher, Casey can play well off the ball with his athleticism and also make plays with the ball in his hands to create for himself or others. He led his FOH Seattle 16u team to a win over Team LaVine last weekend and just so happened to score the game winning basket. When asked to describe his own game, Casey said, “Physical, tough and aggressive. I like to play down hill and finish at the rim. I don’t shy away from contact and I love to provide weak side help and defend the rim.” College scouts have mentioned his toughness and how he plays “with a chip on his shoulder”. The physicality is one part of the game, but one thing that separates Casey is he believes he’s that good. That confidence allows for him to compete at a high level with some of the best players around and he’s been doing it for years.
As far as recruitment goes, Casey mentioned to Prep Hoops, “I have worked out for the University of Texas, played at the Universities of Utah and Idaho Elite camps. And have been invited to Cal Baptist and Eastern Washington camps coming up shortly. Pepperdine has reached out to me as well.” Northwest schools are going to want to get in on Casey here very soon, as I suspect some schools outside of the region will continue to grow on Casey’s game.
Interview:
1) What have you been focusing on the most since the end of high school season?
“Working on my strength and conditioning. As well as my handles and shooting on the move, mid to long range.”
2) How do you feel you have played so far this spring and what needs to improve for the July viewing period?
“My game has continued to grow this spring. I have also been working hard on finding and getting the ball to my teammates in good scoring positions.”
3) What are you looking for in a college?
“I am looking for a college where my skills and potential will be a good fit with the school I play for. I want to go somewhere where I can play and continue to develop my game and help my team play in the NCAA tournament.”