2021 Early Season Sleepers
Sometimes as a junior, it’s possible to get overlooked because it may be your first year on the varsity level, you have a senior in front of you, or it takes you a little longer to break out and show…
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Continue ReadingSometimes as a junior, it’s possible to get overlooked because it may be your first year on the varsity level, you have a senior in front of you, or it takes you a little longer to break out and show what you got. Here is a list of juniors throughout the state of Alabama that needs more attention.
CJ Burns, 6’0 PG, Ramsay: This heady and skilled pg is having a breakout season. He has consistently shown throughout the year he has the ability to play on the college level. One of his most glaring attributes is his ability to communicate on the court. He is a coach out on the floor constantly communicating on both ends of the floor a skill that is highly valued by college coaches on all levels around the country. He has improved his outside shot which has made him a more deadly offensive player. With defenders unable to play off or go under screens anymore he has risen his stock significantly over the course of this season.
Dequarrian Ezell, 5’11 PG, Huffman: The best way to explain this junior prospect is “A Dog.” And that is meant with the utmost respect. His strong and aggressive play on both ends of the floor makes you look past the fact that he is sub 6 feet tall. He is probably the best rebounding guard in the state and is not afraid to get in the painted area and go to battle with the big guys for rebounds and loose balls. He is an exceptional athlete with the ability to play above the rim. He has a shifty handle and an explosive first step that allows him to beat initial defenders off the dribble on a consistent basis. Look for him to continue to help lead a very talented Huffman team as they compete for an area and state title.
Jordan Bell, 6’6 F, Williamson: A walking double-double! When he steps on the court of course his size stands out to most, but once the ball is tipped his skill starts to reign supreme. The active and bouncy big man is a monster on the glass on both ends of the floor. He also is a high flying act with the ability to bring a home crowd to its feet or completely shutdown a gym if on the road with rim-rattling finishes. He has a developing face-up game on the offensive end, but defensively is a dynamic shot blocker with the ability to challenge shots inside and outside his guarding area. A great help defender.
Kenton Steele, 6’5 SF, Hamilton: A long and smooth prospect that has an effortless jump shot from well beyond the 3-point arc. He has the lengthy and craftiness to get to the painted area and score with a variety of floaters over defenders. What he lacks in athleticism he makes up for with his quick release. He has a good handle for a wing player his size. He needs to fall in love with the weight room which will allow him to be an even more efficient offensive player with the ability to withstand punishment. He has the wingspan at 6’9 to be a force on the defensive end with the ability to guard multiple positions. Definitely someone for college coaches to take a look at.
Collin Chappell, 6’0 PG, Hayden: This solid point guard has had a very good start to his junior season. His ability to shoot the ball from deep is one of the main assets to his game. However, his knack for finding his teammates in positions where they can be successful is his calling card. He is a lockdown defender who thrives in the passing lane and getting his hand on balls creating deflections. he has a crafty handle that allows him to beat his defenders without being the most explosive athlete. His ball skill and passing ability are what make him one of the more slept on prospects in the class.
Bryan Bennett, 6’4 SF, Demopolis: A crazy explosive athlete who is a walking, running, jumping highlight reel. He is a beast in transition who has good hands and is able to catch and finish in traffic or high above the rim. He has a great motor and is always playing at 100%. He is improving as an outside shooter but needs to continue to work on it in order to improve his stock. He is able to guard multiple positions on the perimeter and with his athletic ability allows him to guard players who are much bigger on the inside. As his ball-handling improves it will only make him a more intriguing prospect.