2023 Jacoi Hutchinson has programs prioritizing him

2023 IMG Academy and Team Takeover guard took advantage of the Peach Jam stage in July and put forth some of the best basketball that I've seen him play. The 6'2 guard played both on and off the ball, provided a defensive presence in the backcourt and took on more of a vocal leadership role that helped Takeover advance all the way to the championship game.

"I give credit to me and DeShawn Harris-Smith," Hutchinson said on his team's success. "We both just stepped up as leaders and it was key to have our core back, so once we got it together we got it rolling. I had some ups and downs throughout the spring, but in July I just tried to take more control of the game and focus on leading by example. I was proud of myself for how I did."

Hutchinson was a standout at the Will Barton Elite Camp over the weekend where he impressed with his scoring ability from all three levels. He operated patiently off the bounce where he got his defender on their heels and would rise up for mid-range jumpers or step-backs from three. When he got downhill, he go to the rim and finished with either hand through contests.

Hutchinson also looked good in ball screens where he'd get to the paint and locate shooters in opposite corners.

On the recruiting front, it seems as if three familiar programs to the DMV area have prioritized Hutchinson.

George Washington: I have a great relationship with head coach Chris Caputo and assistant coach Brendan Straughn. Coach Brendan is a former Takeover guy so you know, they show nothing but love for me. Even when I was going through my ups and downs, they always had a coach there for me. So there's a true genuine relationship right there.

VCU: I've always loved VCU. They really let their guards go. Bonez Hyland is one of the favorite players in the league and obviously Ace Baldwin who played with Durant is doing great there. They play in a lot of ball-screens and get out on the break. I like that a lot.

James Madison: They have another former takeover guy up there in assistant coach Xavier Joyner. I like the way they play up there and I know a few guys who have went through there. They have great facilities and stuff and they do a great job with their guards, so I'll definitely take that into consideration.

New Mexico State: They just came in recently, but they've been real consistent. Ever since the old IMG post-grad coach Chad Myers got on staff there they've been hitting me up. They're going to come watch me workout and play in September, so we'll see what that brings.

Hutchinson currently has an official visit in September to James Madison and is in the process of setting an official visit up with George Washington. He plans to take all of his visits and be a bit more patient with his process before ultimately coming to a decision.