Capital Hoop Fest Scouting: 2019 Part 3
WASHINGTON, DC — The Elevate Hoops Capital Hoop Fest showcased some of the best teams from the greater Baltimore/Washington D.C. region at Catholic University on last weekend for a weekend of competition and exposure. It is time for our detailed scouting report on the event. Here is the final part of our 2019 scouting report!
G JALEN RUCKER | TEAM MELO
Jalen Rucker locks down defensively, and gets to the rim at will. Rucker is small, but he is so crafty, deceptively strong, and can finish from various angles at the rim. Rucker will need to continue to develop his perimeter shot, but he’s a high IQ playmaker who can facilitate the team.
G CAMERON SAVAGE | DISTRICT BASKETBALL CLUB
Cameron Savage is a strong competitor who knows the game. Savage defends well on and off the ball. He’s a good mid-range jump shooter, and a crafty finisher. Savage can push the ball in transition, but is also good at slowing down the tempo and running a half-court offense.
G/F PHIL SMITH | MID-ATLANTIC SELECT
Phil Smith is a high energy wing with versatility and skill. At 6’4, Smith is a good rebounder who enjoys pushing the ball up the floor and creating easy looks for others. Smith can hit the three ball as well.
G MAHZI THAMES | TEAM MELO
Mahzi Thames is an unselfish guard who made some really nice passes in this tournament. Thames is a solid defender who can defend the 1 or the 2. He also isn’t afraid to dive for a loose ball or take a charge.
G/F WILL THOMAS | TEAM MELO
One of the more unique players we’ve seen, Will Thomas has the ability to shoot the ball with either hand depending on the side of the floor he’s on. Thomas is incredibly versatile given his size, feel for the game, and strong motor. Thomas can break down his man and operate as a point forward, but is also effective at creating space for his pull up jump shot.
G JALEN WILLIS | TEAM MELO
Jalen Willis was a spark plug off the bench for Team Melo, and arguably one of their best players in this tournament. Willis played with tenacity on defense. He attacked the basket hard, and finished strong through contact. Willis has a high basketball IQ, passing awareness, and the ability to score it from all three levels.