Ron Massey Memorial Classic Day 1: Top Big Men Court 1
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This past weekend, McBride High School in Long Beach, CA played host the annual Ron Massey Memorial Classic. The event serves as an early tune up to the high school regular season and a lot of top schools take part…
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Continue ReadingThis past weekend, McBride High School in Long Beach, CA played host the annual Ron Massey Memorial Classic. The event serves as an early tune up to the high school regular season and a lot of top schools take part in the event. I was able to attend on Saturday and spent most of my time watching the action on Court 1. Here’s a look at some of the top big men that I saw.
1. Jazz Gardner Jazz Gardner 7'0" | C Los Altos | 2023 State #85 Nation CA-S – Los Altos 2023
Gardner is one of the top big men in SoCal drawing a plenty of D1 interest and it’s easy to see why. He has a very versatile skill-set. He’s able to score in the post like a traditional center, but he can also step out and shoot from three-point range. With his back to the basket, he makes quick spins for easy finishes. He can also make a move off the dribble. Defensively, he is able to come out on the perimeter and check wings. He slides his feet very well for a big.
2. Dennis Evans Dennis Evans 6'10" | C Riverside Hillcrest | 2023 CA-S – Hillcrest 2023
Evans is a player I’ve seen a few times now and he’s come a long way from when I first saw him about a year ago. What stands out the most to me is his defensively ability, particularly his shot blocking. He was matched up against Jazz Gardner Jazz Gardner 7'0" | C Los Altos | 2023 State #85 Nation CA-S and got a few blocks on him. Does a good job staying down on his feet. Offensively, he’s more of a finisher than a shot creator. Lurks in the dunker spot. Showed some ability to shoot little fadeway jumpers.
3. Martin Gumwel Martin Gumwel 6'11" | C Rancho Christian | 2023 State CA-S – Rancho Christian 2023
This was my first time watching Gumwel play in person and he’s an intriguing center prospect. Offensively, he can get good post position, but he could stand to be a better finisher and a little more decisive. When he does make a strong move in the paint, he gets fouled and can get to the line. Defensively, he’s able to guard the perimeter and then drop back into the post. He has good communication on that end. Sets good screens as well.
4. James Evans – West Ranch 2024
I’ve watched Evans play multiple times now, even before he entered high school and the main thing that’s always stood out to me about him is his versatile skill-set. He has the skills of a wing player with the size of a big man. He can switch between both forward spots and also play some center. He’s improved his ball-handling skills and can make better reads with the ball in his hands. He has the ability to score in the paint and can step out and shoot from three. High upside.