CIF-SS 2023 Game-Changers to Watch
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The CIF Southern Section has a multitude of players who can impact the game in a number of ways. From being a clutch scorer to those who can come up with crucial defensive stops, these players simply do what it…
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Continue ReadingThe CIF Southern Section has a multitude of players who can impact the game in a number of ways. From being a clutch scorer to those who can come up with crucial defensive stops, these players simply do what it takes to leave behind a grand influence on the game and help give their team an advantage on either side of the floor. These four 2023 players are among those who can do just that as they seek to be a game-changer for their respective team.
Jayce McDonald — Alemany
Jayce McDonald will be a prospect to watch because of his prowess as a pure shooter. This, of course, is always a major plus for a point guard and why McDonald excelled in his freshman year. He is a proficient catch-and-shoot player who steps into his shot very well. He has a good knack at maneuvering into open spots on the floor, especially from out beyond the arc. What will be key to his development is being efficient in other shooting situations as well, such as with off dribble attempts.
Defensively, McDonald does what it takes to win back possession for his team. From taking charges to jumping in front of passing lanes, the 5’8” guard has excellent off-ball awareness on the defensive end.
Keyon Kensie Keyon Kensie 6'7" | SF Taft | 2023 State CA-S — Lynwood
Keyon Kensie Keyon Kensie 6'7" | SF Taft | 2023 State CA-S has a high ceiling for both his versatility and length as a guard. The 6’5” sophomore is one talent who can exploit size mismatches on the court, especially in transition sequences when he is often seen gliding up the court with ease. He is a quality scorer at the basket and does not have much of a problem finishing off high percentage shots in the paint.
Kensie’s frame gives him a good advantage when it comes to sizing up opposing guards in isolation situations as well. While his offensive game is far from polished, he will be a talent to watch this season.
Joby Barnes — Walnut
Joby Barnes is one talent who is bound for a notable sophomore campaign. The Walnut guard has the potential to be a creative on-ball point guard. He has the ability to drive to the basket while using his size to fend defenders to get off high percentage attempts. Defensively is where Barnes is very active, whether as a help defender or simply picking off passes to turn them into offensive transition sequences. With a higher volume of offensive responsibilities, Barnes should be one player who can emerge out from being an under-the-radar guard.
Jaidyn Simpson Jaidyn Simpson 6'2" | SG Colony | 2023 State CA-S — Colony
Jaidyn Simpson Jaidyn Simpson 6'2" | SG Colony | 2023 State CA-S was among several notable freshman talents on Colony last season. And in his upcoming sophomore campaign, Simpson should be among the top guard stock risers.
Simpson is relentless on the defensive end. He has good court awareness when off the ball and knows just when to force turnovers, whether with steals or deflecting passes to halt the opponent’s offensive possession. On the ball, there is work to be done, especially as it pertains to preventing opposing guards from angling their way to the basket with ease. But overall, Simpson’s defensive presence is why he should produce a breakout upcoming season.