Updated 2020 Rankings: Baltimore Prospects (1-25)
Our player rankings are going through updating here at Prep Hoops Maryland as we approach the new year. There were many players throughout each class that saw a change in ranking thanks to improved play since the summer. For this…
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Continue ReadingOur player rankings are going through updating here at Prep Hoops Maryland as we approach the new year. There were many players throughout each class that saw a change in ranking thanks to improved play since the summer. For this series, I’ll take a look at the Baltimore prospect who landed in the top 100, starting with nos. 1-25.
Justin Lewis | 6’8 | Poly
Ranking: No. 2
Lewis keeps his No. 2 ranking and continues his reign as the top player in Baltimore. The 6-foot-8 forward is headed to Marquette next year, but is focused on bringing Poly its third-straight Class 3A state title since transferring from Calvert Hall. Lewis continues to build his versatility on both ends, as he’ll likely see some time on the wing at the collegiate level. His jumper has improved as has his ball handling and lateral quickness on the defense end. Lewis has always been an elite shot-blocker and finisher around the rim. Poly’s firepower is overwhelming to say the least and it all starts with Lewis.
Ace Baldwin | 6’1 | St. Frances
Ranking: No. 4
Baldwin keeps his spot as the top guard in Baltimore. His advanced feel for the game and ability to run a team continues to impress me. His leadership, an area in which Baldwin lacked a year or two ago, has done a complete 180. You can see Baldwin taking the younger guys under his wing and teaching them what to see on the floor. As far as this season, Baldwin hasn’t asserted himself as a scorer, but he really hasn’t had to. The Panthers are equipped with weapons everywhere you look. Baldwin is focused on getting the most out of those weapons and scoring efficiently when called upon. The VCU bound floor general continues to set the table for a St. Frances team who is steamrolling the local competition.
Jahmal Banks | 6’4 | St. Frances
Ranking: No. 7
I’ll admit, I underestimated just how good Banks would be for this St. Frances team. In a short amount of time, he’s quickly become one of the most important players with all that he brings. Banks is an elite defender for their full court press, acting as a safety next to Jordan Toles and anticipating traps and passes. He finishes extremely well in transition and has shown ability to be a three-point threat that the defense must account for. A wing presence in which he brings is what this team was missing.
Jamal West | 6’5 | St. Frances
Ranking: No. 13
West brings steady production in the frontcourt for the Panthers. Every time West steps on the floor, there’s a strong chance he ends the game with a double-double. His aggression and motor are of the best you’ll find in the DMV, and it’s good to see that hasn’t wavered since committing to South Alabama. As we get to the back end of the schedule, West will fill a very crucial role.
Jordan Toles | 6’3 | St. Frances
Ranking: No. 17
Toles is a Swiss army knife in terms of what he does for St. Frances. In some games, he’ll start. In some, he’ll come off the bench. No matter the situation, Toles produces. His high-flying dunks are the first thing that catch your eye, but his toughness and willingness to make winning plays is what separates him from others at his position. Toles will play both football and basketball at LSU next season. If that doesn’t give you an idea of what kind of athlete he is, you may need to reevaluate some things.
Brandon Murray | 6’4 | Poly
Ranking: No. 21
Murray saw his ranking boost tremendously over the past few months. In terms of explosiveness in the open floor, Murray and Toles are the two must-see guys in Baltimore. Murray isn’t just a dunker though. He can hit three’s off the catch and is continuing to expand on his ability to make plays off the bounce. Defensively, he can guard multiple positions with his strength and athleticism. What brings value to a player with Murray’s build and skill set is his motor. He plays extremely hard and isn’t afraid to give up his body diving for a loose ball or taking a charge. Murray plays with winner’s mentality through and through.