Jake’s Top 10 underrated big men
Year after year, we see guys emerge late in their varsity careers. This season, I’ve watched a ton of basketball. So with that, I’ve decided to give you my list of the top 10 underrated big men in the state…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingYear after year, we see guys emerge late in their varsity careers. This season, I’ve watched a ton of basketball.
So with that, I’ve decided to give you my list of the top 10 underrated big men in the state of Florida.
Here are the 10 players in no apparent order.
Tyler Witz (Countryside)
Averaging 11.1 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, senior center Tyler Witz has come onto the scene in his first varsity season. His game has transformed so much and so has his body now that he is healthy for Countryside. Witz has a chance to be a really solid player at the next level. The 6’10”, 237-pounder can attack, shoot from outside and the most underrated part of his game is his hook shot.
Javier Spires (Robinson)
At 6’6″, 185 lbs., Robinson senior Javier Spires is lengthy as can be. Spires is averaging a team-best 19.6 points along with 7.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game. He’s scored 10 or more points in every game including two 30-point outings. His ability to play nearly every position on the court mixed with his outside shooting and length, Spires makes for an intriguing prospect.
Justyn King (Plant City)
Averaging 16.2 points and 11.1 rebounds per game for Plant City, Justyn King is flourishing before our eyes. King is a very talented sophomore, who is growing up quickly. The 6’7″, 195-pounder rarely gets frustrated and is always energized. He is a top 2019 prospect in the Tampa Bay area and as long as he gets stronger so will his all-around game.
Zach Mathis (Berkeley Prep)
For Berkeley Prep, dual-sport athlete Zach Mathis has proven to be the most consistent offensive threat this season. The 6’5″, 185-pound junior is averaging a team-high 14.3 points along with 6.0 rebounds per game. Highly touted for his football skills as a wide receiver/safety, Mathis is long and athletic. Mathis is really good with the ball in his hands and leading the Bucs in transition.
Madut Akec (Victory Rock Prep)
Right behind senior Mayan Kiir, a VCU commit there is 6’7″ junior forward Madut Akec. He’s averaging 14.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game and has drawn interest from Louisville and Stanford. Victory Rock guides players in the right direction and Akec is one of many pure athletes growing into his role and gaining confidence. By this team next year expect Akec to be a hot commodity in the class of 2018.
Grant Shephard (Montverde)
The 6’10”, 225-pound senior was one of many players who came down to play at Montverde. An unknown to a good amount of scouts across the country, Grant Shephard is in a great spot to improve his game tremendously at national powerhouse Montverde. The Canadian has length is evident and his ability to find open space inside to work and attack is impressive. He holds offers from Richmond and Seton Hall.
Jordan Baxter (Nature Coast)
At 6’4″, 190 lbs., Nature Coast senior Jordan Baxter plays much bigger than his frame. He’s a huge reason why the Sharks finished the regular season a perfect 24-0. Baxter finds himself in good spots down low and makes the most of his role. As a key rebounder and guy who comes up with clutch blocks, he is someone who will make an impact at the next level.
Justin Smith (Middleton)
No matter how the season plays out, Justin Smith is a kid who can flat out play. The 6’4″, 190-pounder told me he has no offers or interest yet, but I think he could be a perfect fit a lower Division-I school or Division-II program. Smith is a 2018 forward to keep an eye on because of his solid mixture of ball skills and post moves.
C.J. Williams (Kathleen)
Kathleen has benefited from C.J. Williams being the man down low. At 6’5″, 197 lbs., adding muscle to his frame will be key. However, the senior Williams has been a big reason Kathleen is tied for first in Class 8A-District 9. His length and poise in the paint is something that will get him noticed especially on offense.
Jerroda Briscoe (Boca Ciega)
2018 forward Jerroda Briscoe is relatively unknown in the Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg area. His energy is undeniable throughout games.Briscoe is someone who has stood out to me for various reasons and I think if he can continue to expand his game and use his height to his advantage, then he should start drawing interest. Adding muscle will be important this off-season as well.