Potential Big Risers in the 2021 Class
The start of the high school basketball season has gotten off to a fast start. Some teams have already played three games, while others have just started their 2019-20 campaigns. The start of a new season has also brought a…
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Continue ReadingThe start of the high school basketball season has gotten off to a fast start. Some teams have already played three games, while others have just started their 2019-20 campaigns. The start of a new season has also brought a change in the rankings with over 100 prospects currently ranked in the 2021 class. Some of the juniors on this list have gotten off to impressive starts, which could lead to a major rise in 2020. Here are the 2021 prospects with the best chance to shoot up the rankings.
1. Jaylen Blakes, 6’1 PG Blair Academy
It might seem odd to find a top-5 player as a major riser, but Blakes could wind up as the state’s top junior. Jonathan Kuminga, Adama Sanogo and Bretner Mutombo have all not suited up for the Patrick School yet, while Rutgers Prep forward Trey Patterson has yet to separate himself from the rest of the pack. Blakes has been on fire to start the season as he has been a key component for the undefeated Buccaneers this season.
He can score from all three levels and was a clutch free throw shooter for Blair Academy in its upset win over Patrick School National. Blakes has had more responsibility with the injury to Jabri Abdur-Rahim, but has handled it beautifully. If he is able to keep up his torrid scoring pace, Blakes could end up as the top prospect in New Jersey.
2. Zarique Nutter, 6’4 SF Patrick School
Nutter has really stepped up his game since transferring into the Patrick School. The 6’4 swingman excels at getting to the basket, where he explodes to the rim. Nutter is not just a dunker as he can make tough finishes around the basket. Defensively, he is a good on-ball defender who knows how to keep his man in front of him. Nutter currently sits outside the top-10, but can easily play his way into a top-10 player.
3. Samson Johnson, 6’10 PF Patrick School
The Patrick School needed someone to emerge on the inside and Johnson has been that guy. The Togo native flashed his ability to be a good stretch-4 with a pair of three-pointers against the Hun School. He also knocked down several mid-range jump shots and has a soft touch around the basket.
Defensively, he is one of the top shot-blockers in New Jersey with his combination of length, athleticism and timing. Johnson already owns an offer from Connecticut, but his offer sheet should skyrocket this season. If he is able to keep up his solid play, Johnson could easily wind up in the top-10.
4. Tazir Canty, 6’0 PG Lindenwold
Canty entered his junior season with the reputation as a scorer and has cemented that through two games. He has already put up 71 points through two games, including a 43-point performance in his last game. Canty has been living at the free throw line as he has already made 22 free throws so far. While he has only knocked down three shots from behind the arc so far, Canty can get hot at any time. If he can keep up his work on the defensive end, Canty will see a big rise in the rankings.
5. Zaba Bangala, 6’8 SF St. Benedict’s
Bangala has been a steady force for the Gray Bees so far this season. The 6’8 forward excels at finishing around the rim and getting to the line. Bangala is also an excellent rebounder who rarely gives up offensive rebounds. He is a good passer and knows how to move his feet on defense. Bangala is a player ready to rise up the rankings and is in line for a big jump if he keeps up his stellar play.
Other Names to Watch:
Kunga Tsering, 6’6 SF/PF Hasbrouck Heights
Wisler Sanon, 6’2 CG Paul VI
Keith Mency, 6’1 CG Marist
Lucas Dunn, 6’1 PG Camden Catholic
Malik Austin, 6’6 SF Hudson Catholic