Stockrisers: Class of 2022
The 2019-20 season has come and gone, and each year we see different players rise up and take on expanded roles for their respective teams. Sometimes freshmen are able to step in right away and make a big impact. Older…
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Continue ReadingThe 2019-20 season has come and gone, and each year we see different players rise up and take on expanded roles for their respective teams. Sometimes freshmen are able to step in right away and make a big impact. Older players take on a bigger role.
For the Class of 2022, this upcoming year is a big one. It’s the opportunity to really fine tune and showcase their game, and college offers may start to come in.
Here’s a few players I’ve been able see this year from the Class of 2022 who look poised to continue their upward trajectory.
1. Christian Watson – Long Beach Poly
The younger brother of Peyton Watson, Christian is starting to become a player to look out for in his own right. He’s got the tools to become a lead guard. When I watched him, he looked comfortable with being a primary ball-handler and playmaker. Keeps his head up when dribbling down court. Can shoot from three and can finish at the rim. He has good body control at the rim.
2. Malachi Scott – Long Beach Jordan
I saw Scott play at the same time I watched Watson. He stood out mostly for his ability to move without the ball. He’s constantly moving and always ready to catch a pass from a teammate. He’s a good athlete with good size for a forward. Very active around the rim. He does a lot of his damage on the boards where he fights hard for second shot opportunities and put-backs.
3. Mac West III – Capistrano Valley Christian
When I saw West play, he looked like he had the potential to become a very good shooter. He was able to shoot well from both the midrange and from the three-point line. He can free himself up against the defense to get off perimeter jumpers and he’s able to make his move in one to two dribbles only. He uses his body well, especially on the defensive end.
4. Donovan Dent – Corona Centennial
Each time I’ve watched Dent play, what stands out the most is his defensive ability. He’s quick and he moves his feet well to keep up with opponents on the perimeter. He stays down on fakes and remains on his feet. Step-slides instead of running alongside the player he’s guarding. Picks up defensively in the backcourt. The type of player you put on the opponents best wing scorer.
5. Barrington Hargress – Ribet Academy
Hargress may be a smaller guard, but don’t let that fool you. He’s as strong and as tough as bigger players. He’s a very crafty scorer for a young player and comfortable with the ball in his hands. He can free himself up for a jumper on the wing or get all the way to the rim. His slashing game is his strength. Can beat his defender off the dribble and finish strong at the rim. Good footwork around the basket.