Classic at Damien: Underclassmen Sleepers (Part 1)
Classic at Damien: Underclassmen Sleepers (Part 1) LA VERNE, CA—Despite a surge of Covid over the Southland, the Classic at Damien persevered with some outstanding games and talent galore—especially the underclassmen. There were some senior standouts like Colorado State-bound Jack…
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Continue ReadingClassic at Damien: Underclassmen Sleepers (Part 1)
LA VERNE, CA—Despite a surge of Covid over the Southland, the Classic at Damien persevered with some outstanding games and talent galore—especially the underclassmen. There were some senior standouts like Colorado State-bound Jack Payne (Owyhee/ID) and Fresno State-bound Joseph Hunter Joseph Hunter 6'3" | PG San Joaquin Memorial | 2022 #80 Nation CA-S (Damien) as well as some scintillating underclassmen like 2024 Vyctorius Miller (Crean Lutheran) and 2025 Jovani Ruff (LB Poly).
Ethan McCloskey (San Gabriel Academy)
2023, CG, 6-foot-1, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: McCloskey was an All-Tournament Selection and rightfully so. He is combo-guard who plays with a ton of moxie at both ends. He can drain the 3-point shot and he gets nice lift on his shot. His release looks tight and it’s quick. He can deliver the pass ahead and his head is always up.
Deacon Toliver (Los Osos)
2023, PF, 6-foot-5, 190 pounds
Joel’s Take: Toliver has that prototypical frame with long arms and he’s a quality athlete. He did a nice job guarding up-and-coming junior Isaiah Sherrard. With his length he can get into the passing lanes and he shows solid lateral quickness. He rebounds well in his area, shows solid hands, and he can finish in the paint. With continued perimeter skill development, he is a definite D1 sleeper.
Wyatt Studer (Eastvale/Roosevelt)
2023, PF, 6-foot-6, 190 pounds
Joel’s Take: Studer is a rangy athlete with some deceptive skill. He runs well, has soft hands, and he can finish with either hand. His overall game is pretty raw, but he’s a natural athlete with a solid feel for the game and he plays hard at both ends of the floor.
Jayden Harper (SO Notre Dame)
2024, PF, 6-foot-8, 190 pounds
Joel’s Take: One of the more intriguing prospects in Southern California is Harper. He has long arms, solid hands, and good feet. He runs well, can play above the rim, but I would like to see his motor pick up. He can score inside-and-out, runs very well, and his touch from the perimeter touch is getting there. All the physical attributes are there to be a solid D1 player.