8 players who could have positive impact with their new teams
Every year, kids are transferring. That’s now the norm in high school basketball. There were a handful of top players to transfer to a new school for the upcoming season. That’s a positive for a head coach who’s looking for…
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Continue ReadingEvery year, kids are transferring.
That’s now the norm in high school basketball.
There were a handful of top players to transfer to a new school for the upcoming season. That’s a positive for a head coach who’s looking for an impactful player or two. As of right now, it’s a positive for both parties, but the grass may not stay greener on the other side if the player isn’t happy with his role on the team or minutes played.
It’s not a guarantee that transfers are going to fit in with their new teams. They’re just doing what a lot of people do in life: take risks.
The best players in the state of Tennessee have all seemed to find a home and are preparing to play at their new schools. They just need to build chemistry with their new teammates to try and push for a long, successful season.
Here are 8 players who could have positive impact with their new teams.
E.J. Smith, Memphis East: Mustangs head coach Javonte Holmes has his point guard for the next three years in E.J. Smith, a transfer from Arlington. Smith, who’s 6-foot-1, is versatile and can play off the ball when needed. He’s a solid ball handler with the ability to shoot from the perimeter. Smith still needs to add toughness to his game. He’s already efficient at finishing in transition. Coach Holmes will have a young team this upcoming season, but his backcourt with Smith and sophomore shooting guard Woody Harvey should be exciting to watch.
Isaiah Jones, Arlington: Outside of 6-8 power forward Javar Daniel, the Tigers lacked size and definitely needed to bolster their frontcourt in the offseason. Arlington head coach Maurice Miller did that with 6-7 senior wing Isaiah Jones Isaiah Jones 6'8" | SF Arlington | 2021 State TN , who’s coming off a junior season where he averaged 15.3 points and 9.8 rebounds for East Nashville. Jones gives the Tigers versatility as he can play at small forward and power forward, which would allow Daniel to play center.
Caleb Jackson, Cordova: Head coach Terrance Scales has his point guard for the next two years in 6-1 Caleb Jackson Caleb Jackson 6'2" | PG Power City Academy | 2022 State TN , a transfer from Kingsbury. He’s has a high basketball IQ, always seem to make the right basketball play. Jackson moves at his own pace, and I have yet to see a defender speed him up. He’s only going to get better under Scales and his staff.
Skyy Clark, Brentwood Academy: Clark is coming from Heritage Christian and his presence at Brentwood Academy instantly makes the Eagles a contender in Division II-AA. The 6-2 combo guard has a great feel for the game. Clark, a 2022 prospect, can affect the game by his passing, scoring and communication on the floor. He will be joined by his brother Zachiah Clark, a point guard in the 2024 class.
Cedquavious Hunter, Cordova: Hunter has been called “Tyler Harris 2.0” by his new coaching staff. All of them are excited about what he can bring to the Wolfpack’s offense. The transfer from North Panola is lighting fast and along with his smooth ball handles, it’s hard to stay in front of him. Hunter, one of the most dynamic guards in the 2022 class, should average at least 25 points per game at Cordova, thanks to his unlimited scoring abilities. On the defensive side, he’s aggressive, which is something Scales likes in his players.
Keyron Crawford, Cordova: The Wolfpack needed size for the upcoming season and Crawford,a 6-6 forward, fills the void. The transfer from Raleigh-Egypt is very active on the glass and plays aggressive defense. He still needs work on the offensive end, but he’s a solid upgrade to Cordova’s frontcourt.
Riggs Abner, Green Hill: Senior Riggs Abner Riggs Abner 6'6" | SG Green Hill | 2021 State TN instantly makes his new home a competitive team. He’s a 6-6 shooting guard that’s out to prove that he’s capable of being the No. 1 scoring option. Abner can shoot off the dribble. He’s even more effective shooting the ball off ball screens. It won’t take long for people to see how impactful Abner will be for his new school.
P.J. Hillman, Cordova: Hillman is another solid player that will help the Wolfpack in a positive way. He played with Jackson last season at Kingsbury, so the chemistry between the two should already be intact or close to it. Hillman is a 6-2 guard with athleticism and room for promising potential. Once he’s polished, meaning an efficient player on both ends, Hillman will be sought after in the 2022 class.