Arizona Class of 2019 Watch List: Overview
The class of 2019, similar to 2018, is proving that more and more talent is being developed in the state of Arizona. It is already better than 2016 and 2017, at the time, and looks like it could shape up to…
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Continue ReadingThe class of 2019, similar to 2018, is proving that more and more talent is being developed in the state of Arizona. It is already better than 2016 and 2017, at the time, and looks like it could shape up to be one of the better classes in recent memory, especially on the perimeter. Here’s a look at some of the strengths and weaknesses of this group.
-Strengths-
Star Power
Normally we would not name a number one prospect until the start of a class’ sophomore year but it is very obvious that Josh Green, at this point, is the gem in his class. The 6’4″ combo guard has very unique physical traits. He’s got a big frame, is athletic, and changes pace and direction well. Athletically, there’s no doubt that he’s a high major prospect. Though skilled, he will need to continue to add to and refine his game which, in time, will happen.
Point Guard Play
There is a bevy of talent at the point guard position starting with Shadow Mountain standouts Jovan Blackshear and Jaelen House. While the two freshmen bring different things to the table, they complement each other well as Blackshear is a defensive minded pass first point guard while House has is a flashier playmaker a scorer’s mentality. 5’11” Reed Myers has had as good as a freshman season as anyone (not named Marvin Bagley) in recent memory as he has led Scottsdale Christian Academy to the quarterfinals of Division-III. Trent Brown, as a freshman, helped a youthful Pinnacle reach the quarterfinal of Division-I before getting knocked out. There are a lot of good leaders and floor generals in this group.
Perimeter Size
Already, there are multiple perimeter players in the 2019 class that stand 6’3″ or taller. BJ Bryant, Majok Deng, Josh Green, Kyle Patterson, Emmanual Taban, Walter Talley, Grant Ward, and D’Marian Williams all fit that mold. Also, point guards Vean Simon and Iman Paolmar both stand at 6’2″ inches. Many of these prospects are length and look like they will continue to grow throughout their high school careers.
-Weaknesses-
True Size
There hasn’t been a true center emerge thus far in this class (though it is early). 6’7″ Ethan Spry has been solid as has 6’6″ Jackson Tillapaugh but they will need to grow a ton before they can be considered true prospects on the interior. Both have length as do others in this class but there is no dominant back to the basket or shot blocking presence in this class just yet.
Pure Shooters
While there are certainly guys that can score in this group, there are a lack of pure shooters. Aidyn Albright, Jaelen House, and Reed Myers are the exception thus far as all three are among the top 3-point bombers in the state. However, with their size (right now) they will need to play more at the point guard position to reach their potential (Albright may be able to play off the ball).