Early Preview: BCL Freshmen to Watch
As we continue to dump preseason coverage of various leagues here on Prep Hoops Maryland, it’s now time to break down some of the freshmen prospects throughout the league. There’s always a chance that some of these prospects will play…
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Continue ReadingAs we continue to dump preseason coverage of various leagues here on Prep Hoops Maryland, it’s now time to break down some of the freshmen prospects throughout the league. There’s always a chance that some of these prospects will play their freshman season on the junior varsity level, but over the years, we’ve seen our fair share of freshmen have and outstanding impact for their respective varsity programs.
Tyler Jackson | St. Frances
Jackson has shown great potential with his play throughout the summer and fall league with the Panthers. He’s a gritty competitor, which is shown with his on-ball defense and willingness to dive on the floor for 50/50s. Jackson is extremely quick, but has shown ability to control his pace off the bounce in mid-range pull ups. St. Frances is loaded at the guard position, so the minutes Jackson gets will certainly need to be earned, but if we are basing our predictions off his play this fall he should be a fixture somewhere in the rotation.
Malik Washington | Archbishop Spalding
Spalding is one of the most experienced teams in the league this season, but Washington showed glimpses of potential to be somewhere in the rotation with his play throughout DMV Live in June. Washington, who stars on the football field as well, is a 6-foot-4 wing/forward with athleticism who will be expected to provide energy, rebounding and efficient scoring off the Cavaliers’ bench.
Theartis Battle | John Carroll
Battle is a name that I’m unsure will have a huge impact for the returning champs, but in his brief stints shown during the EBA Summer League, he intrigued me with his outside shooting ability. As he gains experience and becomes comfortable with the pace of the varsity level, Battle could turn into a nice piece off the bench for the Patriots.
Mario Tatum | Mount Carmel
Talk about a team who is loaded with backcourt players, the Cougars have a bevy of guards who will battle it out for minutes. It’s unsure as to whether or not Tatum will be included, but he has the toughness and confidence that not many freshman do. He is confident in his shot off the catch, is a capable finisher in transition and isn’t afraid to get physical on the defensive end.
Rodney Scott | Mount Carmel
I’m extremely comfortable with saying Scott is the best leader of this freshman class. He takes complete control when he’s on the floor with his play and communication. He stands all of 5-foot-6 on a good day, but is a fierce competitor and has a much better feel than players his age.
Joe Green | Mount St. Joseph
Head Coach Pat Clatchey is one who loves to allow his freshmen to gain the necessary confidence on the junior varsity level before bringing them up, but Green and the next prospect may detest that routine. Green is a tough-nosed guard who stands 6-foot-2, can score from all three levels and has improved his athleticism steadily over the last four months.
Brandon Holmes | Mount St. Joseph
Holmes is a 6-foot-7 forward with plenty of development left in his future, but he comes already equipped with soft touch around the rim, good vision acting as a passer at the top of the key and has good determination as a rebounder. Whether or not Green and Holmes play varsity this season, they are two prospects I’d adjust my schedule for to get out and watch.
Jordan Hammond | Loyola
Hammond was a great get for the Dons especially in the long term with his ability to mix it up from the guard position. He’s a sound shot-maker from mid-range and three, continues to improve his comfort and confidence level off the bounce as a playmaker and is a willing defender. Like Green and Holmes, he’ll be one that I’ll be monitoring closely moving forward.