Francisco’s Finest: Class of 2018 (College Ready)
Francisco’s Finest: Class of 2018 (College Ready)
Summary: In other words the group of prospects listed below have the most likely chance of making an immediate impact from the moment they arrive on their chosen destiny. The skill, savvy, and IQ that they have displayed throughout their senior campaign should translate to them seeing the floor sooner rather than later.
Brandon Williams (Crespi)
2018, CG, 6-foot-2, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Williams had been out of action for quite some time (due to recovering from a significant knee injury). However, by the time January rolled around, Williams was back to normal—a relentless scorer. His handle is quick and tight and he plays at a great pace. He can create off the dribble for others as well, but he is at his best when he is being a bucket-getter.
Duane Washington (Sierra Canyon)
2018, PG, 6-foot-4, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: Washington caught our eye in the fall when he dropped an impressive 30+ performance on Mater Dei. He was arguably Sierra Canyon’s best player throughout the season, although Scotty Pippen Jr. and KJ Martin turned it up during the playoffs. Washington can play both guard positions due to his passing prowess and shooting ability. However, he needs to get better at finishing in the paint as well as his initial burst if he is to make that expected impact at Ohio State.
Kihei Clark (Taft)
2018, PG, 5-foot-8, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: Clark is as crafty and savvy as it gets when he has the ball in his hands. His crossover is tight and his vision is impeccable. He has improved his 3-point shot and he is a natural leader. The ACC is a tall order for any incoming guard, but Clark is going to a school (Virginia) that fits his skill set. Due to his size, defending guards at that level will be a tall order, but the Cavaliers defense is team-oriented under Tony Bennett, which should help Clark’s transition.
Taurus Samuels (Vista)
2018, PG, 6-foot, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: Samuels is not the quickest or fastest, but he knows how to run a team and he is a high-level competitor. When it comes to game management, leadership, and overall feel for the game, Samuels is top-notch. He needs to continue to work on his overall burst, but with his ability to knock in deep jump shots, this should help his transition.
Riley Battin (Oak Park)
2018, PF, 6-foot-8, 235 pounds
Joel’s Take: If there was a school that is tailor-made for Battin’s skill set—it is Utah. The ultra-skilled power forward has done a tremendous job getting his body ready for the next level and his skill set and fundamentals have always been high-level. His footwork is impeccable and can finish with either hand or step out and nail jump shots. He is a rim-level player, but he knows how to carve out space.
Spencer Freedman (Mater Dei)
2018, PG, 6-foot, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: The prototypical true point guard should be a perfect fit for Harvard. Freedman is crafty left-handed point guard who can drain deep jump shots, manage the half-court offense with aplomb, or deliver a nifty assist. Overall, there might not a better overall leader in the senior class than Mr. Freedman.