2016 Best Available (Part 1)
Virginia’s 2016 class is considered by many to be among the deepest in recent memory. Over 110 seniors have already committed to play basketball at the next level. Despite the large number of players who have already declared their future,…
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Continue ReadingVirginia’s 2016 class is considered by many to be among the deepest in recent memory. Over 110 seniors have already committed to play basketball at the next level. Despite the large number of players who have already declared their future, there are plenty of talented seniors still available. Below, we rundown 10 of the best available names in the state.
Blake Francis: 6′ PG
Blake (23p/6r/5a/3s) was named MVP of the DMVSTREAM.COM Nova ChallengeFresh off a memorable state title run with Westfield, Blake Francis has carried the positive momentum from his final high school season with him into the spring. He’s currently running with Baltimore Elite on the Adidas Gauntlet, where his two-way impact has been instrumental to their unblemished 8-0 record. Blake demonstrates tremendous poise, toughness, and winning intangibles at the lead guard spot.
Harold Baruti: 6’6″ SG
Harold Baruti is widely regarded as the best available prospect in Virginia. The uber athletic wing was a late bloomer, and one of the most improved players this year for Mountain Mission. With recent visits to Utah State, Michigan, and a pending visit to Utah, all signs point to him landing in a high major conference.
Diogo Brito: 6’5″ SG
Portugal native Diogo Brito is a major sleeper in the 2016 class. The skilled guard has a smooth touch from long range to go along with a terrific feel on both ends. He made big plays this season for Mountain Mission, and wasn’t afraid to take and make big shots. Whichever coach he ends up playing for will most certainly be very happy.
Szymon Walczak: 6’3″ PG
Mountain Mission senior Szymon Walczak has long been considered among the best available guard prospects in Virginia. The Poland native is a tough, gritty guard who is adept at defending on the perimeter. He’s known for his excellent positioning and instincts on defense, and ability to create for himself or others offensively.
Tahkey Williams: 6’6″ PF
Tahkey Williams stepped into a relatively new role this season for L.C. Bird. Owning a prolific touch from the perimeter where he prefers to operate, he was asked to play primarily in the paint. The senior was successful despite playing out of his preferred position, exhibiting toughness to go along with a tremendous work rate all season long. He was an integral part of their state runner-up finish, and offers a great deal of value as a stretch big.
Chris Orlina: 6’7″ SF
In his return to Woodside this season, Chris Orlina earned all-state honors while leading his team on a run to the state final four. Several schools are tracking him closely at the moment while he runs on the AAU circuit with Team Melo. Scan the list of available prospects in Virginia, and you may not find a more talented player in the group.
Colin Jachimowski: 6’2″ SG
Colin Jachimowski broke out as the leading scorer for Stone Bridge this season. He’s a downhill type guard who can get into the paint and finish efficiently around the basket. A capable shooter from deep, his shot selection was commendable as he shot a very efficient field goal percentage. High academics are likely in his future, as he owns an impressive 3.89 GPA.
Blake Burdack: 6’7″ PF
Blake Burdack was a key cog for Radford during their state championship run. The Australia native was a focal point offensively, where he was able to stretch the floor and create scoring opportunities for open teammates. His versatility was well noted, and he has a great feel on both ends. Defensively, he’s a stalwart who owns big strong hands which he uses to secure loose balls.
Tyland Crawford: 6’3″ SF
Tyland Crawford is considered one of the more physically gifted players in the class. Owning a 3.5+ GPA, he blends high academics with two-way production on the court. The senior thrived in the open court for C.D Hylton, where he often pushed the pace and created for himself and others. His strength and athleticism will most certainly help him translate his skills to the next level.
Malcolm Weathers: 6’5″ SF
Malcolm Weathers provided us with one of the most exciting plays of the season, burying the game winning shot for Cape Henry at the Chance Harman Classic. The lanky wing can score it in bunches, and showcased an improved jumper this season. Given his high rate of production on both ends, he will likely end up as a steal wherever he lands.
Game winner! 2016 Malcolm Weathers buries the triple and Huntington Prep #VaHoops pic.twitter.com/n6HHWXT2Pn
— Jack Herron (@jwherron10) January 1, 2016