Backcourt Tandem Watch List 2017-18 Season: 4A, 3A, 2A Divisions (Part 1)
As the season approaches, we will look at some of the best back court tandems that Las Vegas has to offer on every level. There are many qualities that college coaches look for in a back court tandem. Who’s the defensive specialist? Who are the shot makers? Can a player pick up 94 feet? Does a player have the ability to take over when necessary? These are just some intangibles that are looked for in players. So for a week we will highlight SOME OF VEGAS’ BEST! This week, Cheyenne High school, and Democracy Prep .
3A Division: Cheyenne High (19-7)-(10-0 in Division): This one-two punch was key in last year’s State final appearance where they came up short. Much was lost from last year’s team, but the meat of this program is surrounded by two guards that have the ability to carry the weight. If another state appearance is going to happen, it will all depend on Ke’shawn Hall and Kavon Williams.
Here’s a breakdown of each player:
(2020) Ke’shawn Hall is a 6’0″ point guard that has very good ball skills, as a freshman he helped his team to a State final appearance. Ke’shawn’s strength is attacking the basket and creating contact. He’s a very good Slasher and has the ability to create his own shot and finish at the rim. He is a very good on ball defender that can pick up 94 feet. The Conference will have to consider him as a defensive player of the year candidate. He comes in as the number 7 player in the C/O 2020 on Prep Hoops Nevada List
(2018) Kavon Williams is a 6’2 combo guard who averages 15.2 ppg. He is very athletic and explosive to the basket. This young man Knows how to get into the lane and make shots. He runs the floor well in transition. Much will be expected from Kavon this year. His commitment and dedication will determine how far this team will go. He must be the leader of this team, if they are going to excel at the next level.
2A Division: Democracy Prep High, (22-5) – (15-1 in Division) I’m very familiar with this program. In the last 6 years they have won 4 State Titles. A small program with big time results, and very good players. Democracy Prep formerly known as Andre Agassi Prep have produced players that are playing at the D1, D2, and D3 level in a variety of sports. There is no fall off with their back court tandem. This two-headed monster is the best in the state of Nevada 2A Division by far. Akeemis Williams and Najeeb Muhammad have been together for 3 years and have created a very special chemistry.
Here’s a breakdown of each player:
(2018) Akeemis Williams is a 5’8″ SG/PG that has one of the best shooting strokes that you will see. This young man averages 18.1 ppg. Last year he led his team to a state title. Deep range is not a problem for this player, he runs off screens without hesitation, and can pull up from anywhere on the floor. His defense has improved greatly over the summer. Scoring is his job and if this team is going to return to state this young man will have to put up numbers.
(2019) Najeeb Muhammad is the Do it all type of player. At 6’0″ this point guard averages 14.1 ppg 4.3 reb 8.1 ast and 3.8 steals a game as a sophomore. He comes in as the number 7 player in the C/O 2019 on Prep Hoops Nevada List. This young man is relentless on the defensive end of the court. He has a very good Basketball IQ and will find open players in transition. If this team is going to succeed this floor General must make sure that everyone is on the same page.