Carnival Hoopfest Scouting Reports: 2017
Carnival Hoopfest held primarily in the Convocation Center on the campus of Xavier University in New Orleans by South Hoop Fest provided an opportunity to not only see some of the top teams in the state grassroots wise but other…
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Continue ReadingCarnival Hoopfest held primarily in the Convocation Center on the campus of Xavier University in New Orleans by South Hoop Fest provided an opportunity to not only see some of the top teams in the state grassroots wise but other up and coming players as well on the court against high level competition. First we’ll break a couple players from various teams with 2017 prospects before getting into underclassmen tomorrow.
Devante Jones (6’1 PG, Elfrid Payton Elite) – At one point someone said, “Welcome to the Devante Jones show,” as he continued to get wherever he wanted on the court and finish from every level while bringing the consistently high level defense he is known for. Jones is a 2016 prospect considering reclassifying but word around the gym was that a D1 offer for this year may be on the way.
Brandon Rachal (6’6 G, Elfrid Payton Elite) – Rachal provided his deafening defense throughout the weekend and had numerous coaches fly or drive in just to see him. He’s continued to improve his jumper and decision making that had numerous coaches discussing their desires to play him at the point in college. Still no timeline for his decision per our discussion after the weekend.
Lamont Berzat (5’8 PG, New Orleans Elite) – No questions were left after this weekend about his toughness level and ability to change a game despite the size people seemed concerned about. He got anywhere he wanted on the court and was a headache for opposing teams on both ends. His leadership both in the way he plays and vocally left coaches impressed with the intangibles.
Malik Legania (6’4 SG, New Orleans Elite) – Legania was a tough match-up all weekend as he displayed both his athletic abilities in transition and the half court as well as his ability to knock down jumpers from beyond the arc. Once he improves his ability to take defenders off the dribble, there will be no limit.
Latrell Jones (6’2 SG, New Orleans Wolves) – Jones continued his torrid pace scoring the ball and did so in a loud way with big dunks. One of the biggest risers of the summer, Jones continues to prove his worth as a scorer regardless of who he steps on the court against. The step up in competition was no concern as he easily averaged over 20 points for the weekend.
Ryghe Lyons (6’8 PF, New Orleans Wolves) – The big man has a smooth touch out behind the three point line but has to become more physical around the rim. Extremely thin frame but he finds a way to finish on the offensive end around and above the rim. Once he adds some bulk and becomes more physical, he’ll get a shot to play at the next level.
L’Marcus Walker (6’0 PG, Lake Charles Cavaliers) – Current 2016 prospect Walker (reclassifying to 2017) had an explosive 30+ point game and was able to show off his improved jumper throughout the weekend while distributing as well. His straight line speed is incredible and has no issue sitting down in front of ball handlers. Needs to prove he can run a team.
Davantre Vitor (6’2 G, Lake Charles Cavaliers) – Vitor once again showed flashes of just how good he can be. There were numerous times he scored multiple buckets in less than a minute of gametime but consistency is the major concern. He’s a high flying athlete that knocks down jumpers at a high level as well. Needs to lock in defensively more.
J’Son Brooks (6’7 F, Southwest La Blazers) – Brooks didn’t need to prove his good he is this weekend but he certainly cemented himself in discussions as one of the top players in the gym. There was little he couldn’t do on the court and numerous coaches noted how well he plays the perimeter and projects as a three at the next level. Can shoot it, handle it, and no problem defending the perimeter.
Cameron McGilvery (6’2 G, Southwest La Blazers) – McGilvery may have been the breakout 2017 player of the weekend with his ability to finish well above the rim and consistently knock down long range jumpers. He made smart decisions on the ball when tasked with being the lead guard but did his best work as a scorer on the offensive end. Explosive.