(2023) Junior player rankings: Off the Radar Newcomers
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Here are some of the newcomers to the rankings that are off the radar. They are all good players who are not yet known to most people even locally. All 8 either didn’t play last year, just moved in…
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Continue ReadingHere are some of the newcomers to the rankings that are off the radar.
They are all good players who are not yet known to most people even locally.
All 8 either didn’t play last year, just moved in or didn’t have a big role yet at their high school.
Here are 8 that should have big seasons and hopefully gain some recognition:
DeJuan Allen Jr DeJuan Allen Jr 6'6" | PF Tolleson | 2023 State AZ Tolleson (Pictured)
A tough post player is young for his class and talented. He started playing only 3 years ago and runs the floor well and rebounds well in traffic with two hands. He is a tad raw but has a nice hook shot and plays physically.
Jaylen Lee Jaylen Lee 6'4" | SF Phhoenix Prep | 2023 State AZ Valley Christian
A strong framed wing handles it well, can make the read to set a teammate up, gets downhill and will make shots from mid to the 3pt line. He uses his physicality to defend multiple positions and rebound.
Khalil O’Bannon Khalil O’Bannon 6'1" | SG Tucson | 2023 State AZ Sabino
A long defensive wing uses his enormous wingspan to collect steals, rebound he ball and plays many positions. He can score with perimeter jumpers and drives to the cup.
Caden Hunter Caden Hunter 6'5" | PF Liberty | 2023 State AZ Liberty
An improving forward plays perfectly in Coach Wood’s offense. He rebounds with his strong body, runs the floor and can really shoot it. He shoots the 3 consistently with a quicker trigger and will defend the 3-5 for them this season.
Jesus Almaraz Jesus Almaraz 6'6" | PF Maryvale | 2023 State AZ Tolleson
An under the rim scoring power forward is tough and skilled. He can create his own offense with a nice handle and has polished footwork. He can use the up and under, post fades, hook shots and hit from mid-range.
David Jackson Jr David Jackson Jr 6'3" | SF Phhoenix Prep Post Grad | 2024 State AZ Mountain Pointe
An athletic and thicker wing transferred in from North Canyon and can be a steady presence off the bench for the Pride. A somewhat streaky perimeter shooter can hit the 3 with range plus get downhill. He can defend the 2-3 for them and his energy will be needed during a long season.
Dwayne Jones Dwayne Jones 6'4" | SF Valley Vista | 2023 State AZ Valley Vista
A high motored wing will be pivotal for the Monsoon to bring energy and scoring. He can shoot it to the 3pt line plus get into the lane and score through contact. His rebounding ability will keep him on the floor.
Anesu Dehwe Anesu Dehwe 6'3" | SG Bella Vista Prep | 2023 State AZ Madison Prep
A strong downhill wing with a sturdy frame. He will not get much coverage playing at a small school but he can hoop. He scores it through contact with his build and has good length with longer strides. He is an elbow and in type of scorer with upside as a perimeter shooter.