Prospect Spotlight: Jaden Keller (2020)
Waterloo West has what looks to be a bright future, and rising junior Jaden Keller’s ability to excel on both sides of the court is a big reason why.
Offensively, he can distribute well for a wing, and is one of the best slashers in his class. Defensively, his size and instincts make him a great threat.
“I feel like I’m one of the best two-way players in our class, offensively and defensively. And I think I’m one of the best defenders on Martin Brothers and West High,” said Keller, a 6-foot-4 wing. “Also, I feel like I have good court vision, and I’m a leader who helps his teammates out.”
Along with Keller’s physical gifts — a rangy 6’4 — he says it’s his ability to read the opponent that makes him such a menacing defender.
“I think it’s my length and watching my opponent and studying their moves, and being able to predict what’s coming next,” said Keller.
He averaged five points last season as a sophomore for the Wahawks, and also led the squad in assists and blocks. Keller says he’ll have a much larger role next season.
“‘I’m for sure going to have to score more, me and Isaiah Johnson; now that CaRondis (Harris-Anderson) is gone ,and Nick Pepin (who transferred to Iowa City West). I’m really looking forward to playing Cedar Falls again, and of course Iowa City West, going against Nick will be fun.”
Keller has been playing well this spring for Martin Brothers 16U. They’ll be getting back to it in July, and will be headed to New York as well as Milwaukee, twice.
“I’m really looking forward to going to New York and playing against the best players from that area,” said Keller. “I think as a team we’ll grow closer, we’ll be in Milwaukee for two weeks and we’ll get to know each other more, and become better teammates.”
This summer is when the class of 2020 guys could really start to see their recruitment start to come together. So far, Keller’s heard from NAIA William Penn, an that’s it.
He’s going to embrace any and every opportunity that comes his way with the recruitment process.
“I’ll be looking forward to getting interest from any college…,” he said. “any scholarship would be good.”
Jaden Keller is ranked by Prep Hoops as a top 50 prospect in his class. To see the full ranking of Iowa’s 2020 class, click here.