Recruiting Report: Jaren Phillips (2019)
Tampa Prep 2019 G Jaren Phillips (6’5, 195) could be the next high major plus prospect to come out of the Tampa Bay area. The versatile swingman has the rare skill set of size, strength and killer instinct abilities for…
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Continue ReadingTampa Prep 2019 G Jaren Phillips (6’5, 195) could be the next high major plus prospect to come out of the Tampa Bay area.
The versatile swingman has the rare skill set of size, strength and killer instinct abilities for only being a freshman. He’s an aggressive slasher, effective mid-range shooter, extremely athletic and solid defensively. He possesses a nice hesi pull and can heat up from deep. Philips strength while driving makes him a tough cover.
Phillips made an immediate impact this season and averaged 12 points, five rebounds, and two assists a game in helping the Terrapins reach the 3A Region Final.
Tampa Prep’s famed 700-win head coach Joe Fenlon knows a thing or two about talent. He’s overseen former McDonald’s All-American and Duke star Casey Sanders and four-star UConn commit Juwan Durham. Fenlon recognizes Phillips’ potential.
“Only a handful of guys have played for me as a freshman,” Fenlon said. “He’s very versatile. His physical stature and skill set is way further ahead of most kids his age. The last four people who played on varsity for me as freshmen all went to high major Div.1 programs.”
Colleges are taking notice. Phillips has drawn recent interest from Virginia Tech, Ohio University, Niagara and Kennesaw State.
But the young Phillips’ confident demeanor is what sets him apart.
“Whenever I play the only thing on my mind is to kill everything in sight,” Phillips said. “I love the game and competing. But I also like making my teammates look good as well. I’ll do whatever is necessary to win.”
Phillips will play with Nike South Beach in the AAU circuit. He’ll also be developing his game with trainer Michael Zak, a former Georgia State standout who played in the 97′ Jordan Capital Classic.
“We’ll be working on his explosion off the dribble and change of speed to create space,” Zak said. “I believe those attributes will make him a better scorer and playmaker.”