Getting to Know You (Pt. 1)
With scrimmages already firing up all over the state, we are only a few weeks away from the start of the 2021-22 high school season. And if you’re anything like me, you wish it would have already started. As it…
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Continue ReadingWith scrimmages already firing up all over the state, we are only a few weeks away from the start of the 2021-22 high school season. And if you’re anything like me, you wish it would have already started. As it is, the wait continues. So to scratch my basketball itch, I asked Louisiana’s high school coaches who we need to be keeping an eye on this year. The response was too big for one article, so here is the first of at least two. Let’s get it!
Jordan Matthews // 5’9” PG // Vandebilt Catholic // 2025
Matthews will begin his high school career at Vandebilt Catholic this season, and he should definitely earn serious court time. The freshman already has a sensational handle and keeps his head up very well. This enables him to have great vision and make the right passes. He’s also a fearless shot taker and seems to be unafraid of the moment.
Amir Chaney // 5’9” PG // Springfield High // 2024
Springfield has a gem in Chaney. He is another young guard with a tight handle and excellent court vision. I have not had the privilege of seeing him play in person yet, but he demonstrated the ability to be a 3-level scoring threat in the film I watched. At this point, however, I’d say he’s most dangerous from behind the arc. His stroke is effortless and consistent from deep.
Mixon Bankston // 5’10” PG // St. Mary’s Catholic // 2024
I’m not going to lie. Bankston impresses me. He plays with great pace and is always under control—a true floor general. He’s a tremendous passer but can also go get his team a bucket. His freshman season was highlighted by tough finishes through traffic, coupled with a quick trigger from deep. He kept defenses guessing last year, and I expect more of the same this year.
Damien Walters Damien Walters 5'10" | PG Union Parish | 2023 State LA // 5’8” CG // Union Parish // 2023 (Pictured)
Walters is flying under the radar a bit, but look for that to change as his junior year unfolds. Coach Gipson is very high on him and describes him as one of the hardest workers he’s ever coached. Whether he’s spotting up or creating his own shot, Damien can shoot the lights out. But what really caught my attention is how well he moves without the ball—reminded me of Rip Hamilton or Reggie Miller.
Marquailon Mitchell // 6’5” CG // G. W. Carver // 2022
Carver has another potential stud in Mitchell. The senior sat out last season after transferring, but he turned plenty of heads this summer in grassroots play. If I had to describe his game in one word, it would be versatile. His length and quickness enable him to defend multiple positions and rebound well. And if his blue collar work ethic translates into a reliable jumper, he’ll be a legit 3-and-D guy.
Bryson Hardy // 6’3” CG // St. Louis Catholic // 2022
Hardy’s size and skill set allow him to be effective both offensively and defensively at positions 1-3. He has good vision with the ball in in hands and is adept at drawing fouls off the dribble. He also has a pure stroke from the outside, but his calling card is defense. He loves to guard and will outwork whoever is in front of him. Put him on your radar now.
I am very high on all six of these guys, and I look forward to following them this season. The Boot is loaded with next-level talent, and it’s time the nation took notice. Let’s geaux!