April’s Stock Risers-2023 Prospects
Now that we’re almost a full month into AAU action, it’s time to reflect on some of the evaluations we’ve gathered over that timespan. I now move onto the 2023 class who just wrapped up their second season at the…
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Continue ReadingNow that we’re almost a full month into AAU action, it’s time to reflect on some of the evaluations we’ve gathered over that timespan. I now move onto the 2023 class who just wrapped up their second season at the varsity level (for most). Here’s a look at the current sophomores that experienced a productive month of April.
For the 2024 April stock risers, click here!
Cortez Johnson Cortez Johnson 6'7" | PF St. Frances | 2022 State MD | 6’7 | Team Thrill
Johnson is reclassing to 2023 after emerging as an impact contributor for St. Frances this season. His decision to reclass boosts his stock significantly, but he helped matters even more with his stellar play over the past month for Team Thrill 16U. Johnson showcased his continued versatility on the offensive end as he is becoming more comfortable with the ball in his hands in spurts. As he was throughout the winter, the 6-foot-7 forward was an effective scorer in the paint and shines in transition where he can catch eyes with over-the-rim finishes. His versatility on the defensive end is extremely valuable and when you consider his ability to rebound out of his area on a consistent basis, it gives college coaches plenty of reason to start investing time in recruiting him.
DeShawn Harris-Smith DeShawn Harris-Smith 6'5" | SF Paul VI | 2023 State #53 Nation VA | 6’5 | Team Takeover
Harris-Smith is a legitimate linebacker on the basketball court, except him much more skilled, nimble and explosive than most would think by simply just looking at him. The 6-foot-5 lefty is a bully that mauls his way to the rim and refuses to be denied. He’s a capable shot-maker from mid-range off the dribble and when he has time, can knock down a few from beyond the arc. He gets after it on the defensive end and pressures his man the full length of the floor. Harris-Smith doesn’t hesitate to crash the glass, dive on the floor or give up his body by drawing charges after rotating as the weak side defender. Simply put, Harris-Smith plays winning basketball and is someone you want on your team.
DJ Dormu | 5’8 | Team Thrill
Similar to Harris-Smith, Dormu is the type of player that you’d hate to play against, but love to have on your team. The 5-foot-8 point guard is a bulldog that applies pressure on his opponents at both ends. Offensively he’s constantly looking to make the opposition pay in transition with quick advance passes and in the half court, his ability to shoot with range allows him to use his quick-twitch abilities to bait his defender and get into the paint to create. Defensively he hounds the ball and uses his low center of gravity combined with active hands to disrupt any plans the ball-handler has in mind.
Jacoi Hutchinson Jacoi Hutchinson 6'3" | CG IMG | 2023 State #101 Nation FL | 6’2 | Team Takeover
Hutchinson is a fiery combo guard that plays with a chip on his shoulder at all times. He provides great toughness and intensity for this Team Takeover squad and backs up his talk with his play. Hutchinson was an effective three-level scorer throughout April and is the type of scorer who refuses to take his foot off the gas pedal. He uses his energy to fuel his defensive play, as he always looks to hunt passes as an off-ball defender to spark transition opportunities. Hutchinson is another defender that’s willing to give up his body by taking charges around the rim.
Malik Bowman Malik Bowman 6'7" | PF Bishop Walsh | 2023 MD | 6’8 | Prospect U
Bowman continues to polish his game in small ways and I took notice over the last month. He’s becoming more efficient with his decision-making both as a scorer and passer. I’d still like his decisions to come quicker off the catch, but operating with efficiency isn’t going to get complaints out of many people. He’s attacking the rim with intentions of dunking it on whoever contests around the rim. Defensively he’s hunting blocks as a weak side defender and did a great job at pursuing rebounds at their peak, turning quickly and pushing the tempo himself or locating a guard.
Savon Sutton | 6’3 | Team Melo
Sutton isn’t a guy who’s name will go viral on the internet because of his stats on the box score, but his impact on both ends is certainly felt. He’s a heady guard that can play on or off the ball and many times will make the hockey assist or do the little things like dribble penetrate to force the defense to collapse and open up the floor for those around him. Sutton isn’t afraid to call his own number, though. He’s a capable scorer from all three levels and finishes creatively around the rim in transition.