Prospect Spotlight: Jack Clement (2019)

Between games at the Adidas Invitational Indianapolis last weekend, Prep Hoops Ohio had a chance to catch up with Bellefontaine guard <strong>Jack Clement</strong> (2019). The 5’10” guard impressed in the tournament with 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists to clinch the Championship in the Silver Division. His recruitment currently includes the initial stages of Division III interest, from unnamed programs. Clement is not only a featured member of his Hidden Gems Black, he also started varsity from game one of his high school career. Likely a four-year varsity starter, he’s a crucial part of Bellefontaine’s program. “We only lost two seniors last year … We should probably be pretty good. The other high schools in our conference lost a bunch of seniors,” Clement said. Clement brings an up-tempo mentality with the goal of pushing the ball faster before the defense can get their feet set. “I like penetrating and kicking. I also like spotting up and shooting from the corners and the top. I like pushing the ball a lot. Coming down the floor and, even when they score, try to start a fast break. Beat them down the floor, especially if they’re in a zone,” Clement said. If unable to get a quick bucket for a teammate, Clement can kick and re-spot to open areas around the perimeter. Solid catch-and-shoot from deep, which includes making himself available once a teammate draws attention. And as a point guard, he returns the favor for others once he gets into the lane. His quick pace style translates to the defensive end too. “I like pressing a lot. We run press a lot,” Clement said, also going on to say he prefers a trapping press. <a href="http://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/jack-clement/8yk_SD_4EeW-8KA2nzwbTA/videos.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-75708" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/ph/uploads/2016/07/Screen-Shot-2016-07-14-at-9.11.53-AM.png" alt="Screen Shot 2016-07-14 at 9.11.53 AM" width="960" height="435" /></a> This summer, the young prospect has been active — travelling for AAU while getting ready for the football season with the Chieftains. And as the high school seasons go on, his responsibilities on the basketball court will continue to increase. Most four-year varsity starters naturally gain leadership responsibilities as well. At 5’10”, his focus right now includes finishing moves around the bucket and having a more ambidextrous approach. “My pull-up is like one of my best shots. And floater, is kind of inconsistent. When it’s going in, it’s a very good shot to have,” Clement said. He also takes care of business in the classroom, earning a 3.7 GPA last year. Scouts can catch Clement in action with Hidden Gems Black 15U in Cincinnati this weekend at the All In Classic.