Recruiting Update: J.J. Reed (2018)
In February, Paducah Tilghman High School wrapped a wonderful campaign, 27-5, 6-0. Despite the heavy veteran influence, sophomore J.J. Reed was able to play and play frequently. “They did pretty well,” said father Jerome Reed Sr. “They lost to Murray. He…
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Continue ReadingIn February, Paducah Tilghman High School wrapped a wonderful campaign, 27-5, 6-0. Despite the heavy veteran influence, sophomore J.J. Reed was able to play and play frequently.
“They did pretty well,” said father Jerome Reed Sr. “They lost to Murray. He actually runs point guard here.”
Reed stands 6-foot-6 and changes direction like a wing. With his size he can find himself under the glass defensively. Partially because he is just taller than people and partially because he springs off the court, Reed shot over 50.0% from the field for much of the year.
“He was averaging 10 ppg, probably 8 rpg, and 4 apg,” said Reed Sr.
The activity of Reed makes him an easy player to root for. At this early stage he could grow into a springy face-up four or a taller wing. Defensively, he needs more exposure outside, with his heels on the arc. The agility suggests he could defend the college three, but continued training is needed.
Reed earned recognition as a member of the All-District Team. Since the high school season wrapped, Reed is running with the Travelers 16u squad. His position with the NIKE-program is offensive rebounder and face-up forward.
The footwork from the frontcourt sets Reed apart from most 16u players.
J.J. Reed Recruiting
Samford offered him last fall, as Reed and two of his AAU-teammates trekked down to Birmingham, Alabama for an unofficial visit. Samford was his first D1 offer, but Head Coach Scott Padgett astutely identifies young talent in the Bluegrass State. Through evaluation and connections the Samford staff starts the recruiting race early and does not incorrectly identify potential.
Regionally there are other teams intrigued.
“Plenty of letters from Xavier, Miami (Oh),” said Reed Sr. “Yale offered to come down to watch him work out if we can schedule that. Austin Peay.”
Also, Reed and his father swung by Western Kentucky University to watch a basketball practice. Adding to his suitor list should be the goal for 16u summer. Generally, he just needs to expand his recruiting profile and perhaps add a sprinkling of offers leading into the junior season.