Recruiting Report: Keleaf Tate (2017)
Keleaf Tate, 6’2 “, CG, Cesar Chavez HS, Washington, DC. College Status: Unsigned.
Keleaf led Cesar Chavez HS to a 25-9 record this past season and averaged over 23 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals per game. In only one game this season did he fail to score in double figures and in that game Keleaf was under the weather. He was chosen to represent the Capital All Stars who played the United States All Stars in the Capital Classic held at the Verizon Center on April 8, 2017. Keleaf had a very solid overall game scoring 7 points and the following week he was awarded 4th Team All Met by the Washington Post.
We saw Keleaf in January of this year and he immediately stood out as an excellent all around player. We asked Keleaf about his offensive game and he replied, ” I feel I am a very diversified player and I can play in transition or in half court sets. I feel I am very good in all pick and roll scenarios. However, I prefer a fast paced game and I can go coast to coast and attack the rim off the dribble. I am constantly scanning the court when I am running a fast break or a set and looking for the best options for my team. At times I can see one play ahead and I feel I have very good decision making skills.”
Keleaf can score from all angles on the court and says,” I really like the mid range game. I can find and get to the the seams of the defense for pull ups. When I am off the ball, I like to come off screens, make flex cuts or curls for an open jumper.”
Keleaf is blessed with an excellent wingspan which helps make him a threat to strip his opponent at any time. As in every off season or down time, Keleaf is always working to improve his game,”This spring I am working on improving my defense and foot work. My Trainers and I are using footwork drills in addition to playing one on one full court to improve my defense. Currently, I weigh 180 and I would like to gain 10 pounds of lean muscle thru my weight training and diet regiment for college.”
On the offensive side of the ball, Keleaf says, “I envision myself as a combo guard at the next level and I am working on using my left hand more for my handle. I have a variety of moves I use to beat my man off the dribble and I always watch videos of other players winning their battles. I try and pattern some of my game after Russell Westbrook. I study his moves off the dribble, mid range, rebounding skills, hustle and how he gets other players involved. This spring and summer I am working hard on improving my 3 point shot off the dribble going right and left.”
Keleaf is #0 for Cesar Chavez and he scored 26 points vs #15 Eleanor Roosevelt on 2-4-17 in an away 3 point loss.
When asked what he would bring to college team, Keleaf said. “I will do whatever it tales to get a win and I lead on and off the court. I have been taught how to manage my time and keep my priorities in order. I never take things for granted and I always try and improve and help my teammates. I have goals and I am very determined to succeed in my academics and basketball. On the court I bring hustle, determination and a winning attitude.”
Keleaf is currently undecided on his intentions on which college to attend this fall. Quinnipac, Longwood, Radford and some other D1 schools have offered while Xavier, James Madison, and Mount St. Mary’s have each expressed interest. He has also received a Division 2 offer from Virginia Union and West Virginia Wesleyan College. Like several other local highly skilled players, Keleaf is researching the possibility of attending a Prep School.