Francisco Awards: Under the Radar (Class of 2020)
Francisco Awards: Under the Radar (Class of 2020) LONG BEACH, CA—What do you do when you’re taken out of the classroom and in the midst of a virus quarantine? You bust out “the best of the best” from the 2019-20…
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Continue ReadingFrancisco Awards: Under the Radar (Class of 2020)
LONG BEACH, CA—What do you do when you’re taken out of the classroom and in the midst of a virus quarantine? You bust out “the best of the best” from the 2019-20 high school basketball season—So Cal Style. Beginning with the immensely talented Sierra Canyon squad, who exhibited the type of fanfare demonstrated by the Lonzo Ball-led Chino Hills squad of years past. Brandon Boston Jr was the MVP for the Trailblazers, but surprisingly the Kentucky signee was not the best player on his team as that label belonged to the multi-skilled Ziaire Williams.
USC-bound Evan Mobley is still considered the “best prospect”, but he needs to assert himself more going forward to reach his vast potential. Josh Christopher (Mayfair) put up huge numbers and Utah-bound Ian Martinez rattled many rims with his bounce, but also showed off a much-improved jump shot. In the following blogs, we will break down the season and also project what the Class of 2020 has to offer going forward as they put their finger prints on the college basketball scene. However, that is only going to happen if this Corona Virus disappears into the thin air.
Under the Radar
De’Shawn Johnson (Washington Prep)
PF, 6-foot-6, 225 pounds
Johnson is burly power forward who is a consistent double-doubleJoel’s Take: Johnson was a beast for the Generals as they were one of the best LA City teams this season. He has a chiseled frame with good hands and feet and he has a terrific no nonsense demeanor. He can drop step and finish, rebound in and our of his area, or knock in the elbow jump shot.
Ben Ramirez (Beverly Hills)
PG, 6-foot, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: Quick, speed, and spurtability are some of the traits of this uncommitted prospect. He is a blur in transition and can get to the rim in a hurry. Strength is a concern, but he has grip of moxie that should carry him to the next level. He’s geared to score, but his passing prowess is impressive.
Jaren Johnson (Lynwood)
SG, 6-foot-3, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: The Dartmouth commit has that prototypical frame with long arms and he’s geared to score. He can convert buckets from all three levels and he’s a willing passer. His first step is quick and his pull-up game is tight. With added strength he should evolve into an All Conference type in the IVY League.
Brandon Whitney (Alemany)
PG, 6-foot, 160 pounds
Alemany point guard Brandon Whitney is yet another SoCal recruiting steal by the Montana coaching staff.Joel’s Take: Alemany has produced some quality players the last few years and Whitney is yet another one coming off the conveyor belt. The Montana signee possesses a terrific pull-up game. He has a solid frame with good length and is equally effective facilitating as he is scoring.