2023 Ranking Risers: South Florida (Mid-Season)
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In the basketball world, rankings are always very fluid and up for debate. Prospects are going to progress or regress over a certain amount of time. I try to emphasize to players that this is just a number next to your name. Use…
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Continue ReadingIn the basketball world, rankings are always very fluid and up for debate. Prospects are going to progress or regress over a certain amount of time. I try to emphasize to players that this is just a number next to your name. Use it as motivation, but don’t get caught up into it too much.
A college recruiter watching you at a showcase is not going to care about your ranking. If they like you, they like you. A program will offer you a scholarship whether you are ranked #1 or #300 if they believe you can contribute as a student-athlete. It only takes one school to take a chance on you.
With that being said, I would like to highlight a group of prospects in the sophomore class playing above where they currently stand. My opinion comes from games I have witnessed and information I have obtained as we reach the mid-point of the season. This is a follow-up to my article on the 2021 and 2022 class.
Jaylen Carey Jaylen Carey 6'8" | PF Westminster Academy | 2023 State #129 Nation FL – Westminster Academy (PH 11)
Carey missed some time due to a hand injury, but he appears to be back after suiting up against The Sagemont School on Thursday. The 6-foot-8 power forward posted a double-double of 15 points and 11 rebounds against the Lions. Back in November, I witnessed Carey score 18 points and knock down four 3-pointers against St. Andrew’s in the Sunshine State Preseason Classic. Since leaving U-School, he has dropped weight and looks well conditioned. The fact that he has added range to his offensive repertoire is a scary thought. This kid was a tank at his size with the Sharks, and now Carey is forming his basketball skill with Westminster Academy. While I don’t think this ranking is way off, I believe it is a matter of time before he pushes up near the Top 5. Carey has a ton of upside and the bloodlines to make it as a high major.
Justin Johnson Justin Johnson 6'7" | PF Doral | 2023 #229 Nation FL – Doral Academy (PH 17)
Johnson is a versatile playmaker for the Firebirds. The 6-foot-7 wing is currently averaging a team-best 17.9 points while adding 7.6 rebounds per game on 44 percent shooting from the field. While I would love for that percentage to shoot up a tick, Johnson can score on all three levels of the floor. Doral Academy is also winning behind him as they currently hold a 7-4 overall record. Moreover, his mix of size and athleticism make his teammates around him better. You need to account for him moving without the ball, leaving opportunities for his teammates to contribute. Johnson is coming into his own after being a teammate of 2020 Devin Carter last season.
Koree Cotton Koree Cotton 6'4" | SF Souhtridge | 2023 State FL – South Miami (PH 38)
Cotton is a dynamic combo guard for the Cobras. At 6-foot-5, he already has ideal size to play both positions. Against Coral Gables, Cotton had 18 points, four assists, four rebounds, four steals and three blocks. In particular, Cotton makes plays on the defensive end, especially around the interior where he uses his athleticism to block shots. I love players who contribute outside of their position. Cotton certainly fits that mold for South Miami. Look out for Josh Middlebrooks Josh Middlebrooks 6'2" | PF Southridge | 2023 State FL as well for the Cobras.
Guilherme Tesch Guilherme Tesch 6'8" | SF North Broward Prep | 2023 FL – North Broward Prep (PH 80)
I saw Tesch play a few nights ago and he certainly has talent. The 6-foot-8 small forward is long and has an adequate outside shot. Tesch is currently averaging 13.1 points and 5.9 rebounds per game on 45 percent shooting from field for the Eagles. Moreover, he has scored in double-figures in nine of 12 games. On the free-throw line, he appears to be a good shooter for a big. Tesch has made 32 of his 38 attempts (84%) per available statistics. Look for him to continue to grow his game as he moves into his upperclassmen years.
Hykeem Williams Hykeem Williams 6'4" | PF Stranahan | 2023 FL – Stranahan (PH 92)
Williams is one of the best athletes in the South Florida area. The 6-foot-4 power forward is a double-double threat thanks to his size and explosiveness. Williams can move like a locomotive in transition and finish at the tin for a rack attack. If you have followed his Instagram account, you will notice he has raked in college football offers. Against West Broward, Williams had seven points and 12 rebounds, eight coming on the offensive end. This dual-sport athlete is on the fast track to a big future in either sport.
For any South Florida Prep Hoops news or information…please contact Michael Costeines @Steins_23 on Instagram or follow him on Twitter @Mungertown_Mike23.