Summertime Sleeper Watchlist: C/o 2022
Grassroots basketball has returned and several players are having the chance to show just how much they have been working and improving during the quarantine. The class of 2022 is the deepest and most talented class we’ve in Texas in…
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Continue ReadingGrassroots basketball has returned and several players are having the chance to show just how much they have been working and improving during the quarantine. The class of 2022 is the deepest and most talented class we’ve in Texas in years and this summer is extremely important for them, seeing as though many of them get overlooked due to the popularity of higher-ranked prospects in their class. These five athletes are just a few of the recruits that have started the summer off with a bang and have continued to stay dedicated to getting better every day.
Alex Bossinakis – Guard – Basketball Means More
Alex Bossinakis has been on my radar all year, and as soon as I got a chance to see him on the court again he reminded me why. He’s everything a coach looks for in their point guard, he’s smart, speedy, a pure shooter, a good facilitator, a tough defender, and a leader on the court. To no one’s surprise, he improved on every single one of those characteristics, Bossinakis has sharpened his tools and returned as more of a floor general than ever before with the way he’s able to control the game and pace of play, Alex just lets the game come to him. He’s shown the ability to put the ball in the hoop in multiple ways. He has a knack for beating his man off the dribble and making some tough shots at the hoop. His crossovers and explosive first step are not easy to contain, and if you give him the slightest bit of space he will instantly make you regret it. Alex Bossinakis has a ceiling that is extremely high, he’s a true leader of men of the court who holds his teammates to a high standard. With this type of progression, he’s starting to look like he’s on his way to becoming one best point guards of in class in Dallas/Fort Worth.
C.J. Luster – Shooting Guard – Team F.O.E.
This combo-guard does his job exceptionally well, if he’s needed for spotting-up, he can hit jump shots all day, and if you need someone to get the team going, he can take over the game. When you watch C.J. Luster play, you’ll immediately realize that he has put a lot of time and work into his jump shot. He’s an excellent shooter, very technically sound, has a perfect release, and a fluid motion, the ball flows right off his hands effortlessly, you must respect his ability to shoot at all times. In transition C.J. is dangerous, he excels when he’s able to push the pace and play at a high tempo. Crafty finisher in the lane, displays very good body and ball control when attacking. Luster can also make an impact with his point guard skills, good distributer, he has the strong ability to pass in an off-guard position, he consistently found cutters and open shooters. This baller has stints where he can really make some plays and create for others. Not only does C.J. Luster show an upside as a shooter, but he’s also showing an upside as a playmaker as well.
Rocco Paul – Shooting Guard – Court of Dreams
6’3 Rocco Paul is the type of guy that plays basketball the way it’s meant to be played. He’s all over the court doing a little bit of everything, grabbing rebounds, dishing out the ball, and taking charges; he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the ball in his hands. Solid ball-handling skills, has a quick 1-2 crossover that he uses to create space or get into the paint. Paul catches defenders off-guard with his quick decision making, he’s able to get his shot up in a blink of an eye whether it’s contested or not; very nice shooting stroke with a high arcing release. With the ball in hand, Rocco is a flat out instinctual scorer from inside and outside the arc. Rocco Paul is a tough kid that’s not easily rattled, he has a good understanding of the game, and his potential as an all-around ballplayer is through the roof, he’s definitely a player to take note of.
Elijah Hill – Forward – TX TakeOver Elite
This 6’5 forward has top-notch athleticism and is not afraid to go up and try to throw it down on anyone. Elijah Hill is an incredibly tough player to keep out of the paint, he’s always strong, aggressive, and explosive when attacking the hole. Good interior presence on both offense and defense, he does a phenomenal job of staying active without the ball, slashes the lane well, and goes after every single rebound; he gets off the ground quickly on his first and second jump. Hill is a high motor player, especially on the defensive end, he’s not lazy at all and has the tenacity to be an extremely effective defensive threat. He has great size at 6’5, has a solid frame, long arms, and strong hands, but plays much bigger than his height. Elijah Hill’s progression throughout the rest of this summer is something to keep an eye on, he’s most likely going to continue to grow and get taller, but his game will definitely be the thing that grows the most.
Keadrin Allen – Shooting Guard – Team F.O.E.
Top-shelf shooter who does an outstanding job of always staying ready to shoot. Keadrin Allen is very calm and confident shooter with college-level range, tremendous form, and a quick trigger. Knockdown in spot-up and catch-and-shoot situations. You cannot let Allen catch the ball in rhythm, he steps into every shot he takes and will let it fly even with a hand in his face, he doesn’t need much space, if any at all. He even shows impressive elevation when shooting over defenders. This 3-point marksman plays with a great feel for the game when moving without the ball, often looking for openings around the 3-point line and capitalizing off them as well. Keadrin Allen has put his shooting ability on display since the summer games have begun, he’s showing true potential to becoming one of the more respectable 3-point specialist in the area.