Recruiting Report: Jarvarcus Word (2017)
Class of 2017 point guard Jarvarcus Word of New Madrid Central is usually the smallest player on the floor during the game, but that rarely keeps him from making the biggest impact. The 5’7″ Word is a tough competitor who…
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Continue ReadingClass of 2017 point guard Jarvarcus Word of New Madrid Central is usually the smallest player on the floor during the game, but that rarely keeps him from making the biggest impact.
The 5’7″ Word is a tough competitor who uses his speed and quickness to make him one of the top backcourt performers in the Southeast Missouri region.
“I’ve always been the smallest guy out there, so I used to it,” Word said. “It always pushes me to play harder.”
A three-year starter for New Madrid, Word averaged 18 points, 2.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.2 steals a game. He shot 73 percent from the free throw line and shot 33 percent from beyond the 3-point line. As a sophomore in 2015, Word averaged 12 points a game as he helped New Madrid Central to a third-place finish in the Class 3 state tournament.
When Word gets the ball in the open court, he is looking to push the ball at every opportunity. At times, he can be a one-man fast break with his speed. In a half court game, Word still uses his quickness to consistently get in the lane and create problems for opposing defenses. He does an excellent job at scoring on his attacks to the basket, even in the land of the trees.
“I really like attacking off the dribble,” Word said. “I’m working on getting a more consistent pull-up jumper off the dribble. My 3-point shot is also getting better. I have to stay aggressive and keep my composure so I can lead my team. Our goal as a team is to win a district title and get back to state. To get there as a sophomore was unreal. It was a great experience.”
Word has been running with the SEMO Bulls 17U team during the grassroots season.