2024 Rankings: Predictions
I initially held off doing this segment for this class because its hard to predict for a multitude of reasons. First of all, the pandemic put an extra strain on programs and players transitioning to the high school level. You…
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Continue ReadingI initially held off doing this segment for this class because its hard to predict for a multitude of reasons. First of all, the pandemic put an extra strain on programs and players transitioning to the high school level. You had games cancelled and schools going into quarantine for a period of time. Basically, it was hard to get into a rhythm with things always in flux.
In addition, top programs don’t always have to invest heavy minutes on a freshman. Some of these kid will wait their turn and become bigger factors down the road. Moreover,the playing time they receive could be spotty or at the end of games. Of course, there are exceptions.
That is why It can be hard to get a feel on the Class of 2024.
Anyways…I am going to do my best from information I have looked over.
Alex Soto Alex Soto 6'6" | SF Florida Christian | 2024 FL – Doral Academy (PH.63)
Doral Academy went 14-8 last season behind 2023’s Justin Johnson Justin Johnson 6'7" | PF Doral | 2023 #229 Nation FL (18.3 ppg) and Gabriel Hernandez Gabriel Hernandez 5'10" | PG Doral Academy | 2023 State FL (17.3 ppg). The Firebirds will lose Johnson’s brother, Kameron Johnson Kameron Johnson 6'6" | PF Doral | 2021 State FL (13.2 ppg), to graduation. Soto is a prospect that could become more of a factor with extended minutes. The 6-foot-4 small forward averaged 3.7 points and 1.9 rebounds per game last season. Soto already has good size and length to play the position. He should also embrace the teaching of former University of Miami assistant and current head coach Jorge Fernandez. With Johnson as the leader, Soto can build and develop on his freshman season.
Ian Pascal Ian Pascal 6'4" | SF Mater Lakes | 2024 FL – SLAM (PH. 36)
Pascal played valuable minutes on a SLAM team that was fairly young overall. Classmate Christian Reid Christian Reid 6'5" | SF Mater Lakes | 2024 State FL led the Titans in scoring at just over 15 points per game. The 6-foot-3 forward/wing averaged 8.9 points per game across 12 contests. Moreover, he scored in double-figures in six games and posted a season-high of 16 points twice against Keys Gate and LaSalle. With a dozen games under his belt, Pascal should build on his experience as a sophomore. He certainly put up enough numbers to warrant a look. It is worth noting that SLAM has some of its kids moving around next season. Regardless, Pascal will put up points no matter where he plays.
Clarence Burts Clarence Burts 6'3" | CG Mater Lakes Academy | 2024 State FL – Miami Norland (PH. 23)
Burts is in a good spot over in Miami Gardens. He is playing for a great coach in Lawton Williams and with 2024 Marcus Allen Marcus Allen 6'4" | SF West Orange | 2021 State FL . Those two factors alone should make him a better prospect. However, the 6-foot-3 shooting guard can also hold his own on the floor. Burts scored eight or more points in seven games and shot 43 percent or better in each of those contests. His 28 3-pointers is also something to keep an eye on. Burts knocked down two or more in eight games and shot 44 percent overall from the perimeter. You have to like his length and athleticsm coming out of the backcourt. The Vikings are also a pretty good team, too.
Dylan Burrowes Dylan Burrowes 6'8" | SF Ft. Lauderdale | 2024 State FL – Stoneman Douglas (PH. 82)
Burrowes looks to have potential in football or basketball. The Parkland product plays tight end/wide receiver on the football team and small forward on the basketball court. I think you could easily mold him into a power forward. Regardless, his 6-foot-6 frame is something to pay attention to in both sports. I think Burrowes can use his football toughness to his advantage on the court. Guys with his athletic diversity can be big factors on 50/50 balls and on the boards. Burrowes could also rack up points in the paint with his size. In addition, I think we’ve seen the value of playing multiple sports with professional bound and college signees. Burrowes should be an interesting prospect to follow on both fronts. You can check out his overall highlights by clicking here.
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