Recruiting Report: Will Thomas (2019)
Our Lady of Mount Carmel had one of the most exciting basketball teams in the state of Maryland this past season. Led by Chatanooga commit Terry Nolan Jr., the Cougars finished with a 29-11 record in the uber competitive MIAA A Conference with wins over the likes of St. Frances, Paul IV, John Carroll, and McDonogh. While Nolan Jr. led the charge, other players such as Christian Evans, Jordan Jones, and Will Thomas were core pieces in the Cougars success.
Thomas is a 6-6 sophomore who has quickly risen to being a top player in his class. He currently ranks no. 16 in the PrepHoops 2019 rankings.
In situations where Thomas can play on the wing, he can offer plenty of production in different box score categories. He naturally possesses a knack to score the ball, but does also does a great job in transition keeping his eyes up looking for an open teammate. Once he develops a little more in the weight room and naturally gets bigger, he can posses mismatches in multiple positions.
Thomas currently holds two Division 1 offers from Towson and Southern Utah, but he also told PrepHoops that Dayton, George Mason, and Maryland are also amongst many schools that have shown interest.
This spring/summer, Thomas will play with Team Melo 16U. He told me that working on his jumpshot is high on his priority list. Thomas’ jumper has improved, but he wants to add range and consistency whether his shots are from off the dribble or catch and shoot situations.
“Shooting and being more versatile defensively. I want to be able to guard 1 through 5,” Thomas said. He most recently participated in the Hoop Group Top 100 showcase in Baltimore this past weekend where his defense was on display especially in the open floor. Thomas had a few chase down blocks including one where he pinned one against that backboard, which brought some in the crowd to their feet.
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When you watch Thomas on the court, you can tell he has fun just playing the game. That enjoyment helps fuel his effectiveness. He is constantly communicating with his team on both ends, which tends to bring a calming presence immediately. It’s difficult to jump into a showcase and play with a group of random players, but his personality and skills makes it for a smooth transition.
He’ll be one to watch as the AAU circuit begins to ramp up.