A Scout’s Take: St. John Bosco Summer League (Part 1)
A Scout’s Take: St. John Bosco Summer League (Part 1)
BELLFLOWER, CA—St. John Bosco High School was the place to be on Tuesday for one of the better summer leagues in So-Cal. There were few kids missing—most notably Jake Kyman and Max Agbonkpolo of Santa Margarita. However, this lets other players the opportunity to step even more—that being Shengzhe Li. Arguably the most dominant player we saw all night.
Co-MVPs
Shengzhe Li (Santa Margarita)
2019, C, 6-foot-11, 250 pounds
Joel’s Take: There was no one that could handle Li on the block. His pivot work was solid and he understands how to carve out space. He still brings the ball down far too often, but he has a clear path it’s a thunderous smash. Not too mention he tossed in a few left-handed finishes.
Giordan Williams (Long Beach Poly)
2019, SG, 6-foot-2, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: Williams is one of the most improved guards in So-Cal. He had a terrific spring and it has continued into the early summer period. His jump shot is smooth off the catch and he has improved his explosiveness—as he threw down some strong finishes in traffic.
Best Glue Types
Jordan Brown (St. John Bosco)
2020, PF/WF, 6-foot-3, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: When Matt Dunn (Head Coach) needs a play, he can rely on Brown more often than not. Brown has a nose for the ball and he plays with tremendous assertiveness. He has soft hands, solid scoring instincts in the paint area, and he can knock in the 3-ball. However, it’s how he gets his hands on the ball via a steal, rebound, or finish is what really stands out.
Chris Koon (Rolling Hills Prep)
2019, WF, 6-foot-5, 190 pounds
Joel’s Take: Koon is a savvy wing-type that should be getting some D1 looks this summer. He is a capable shooter from deep and he is a physical driver to the basket. In the half court set he hands out skip passes and he hits the glass hard at both ends. Definition of a “basketball player.”
Mr. Upside
Lamaj Lewis (St. John Bosco)
2021, 6-foot-3, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Lewis played JV last season and after developing and showing patience, the time is now for him to make an impact on the varsity level. The game comes nice and easy for Lewis—there is no wasted motion. He has a solid 1st step, shows a soft touch in the paint, and he has that prototypical frame that screams upside.