Player Profile: Jaden “Skinny” Nielsen Skinner (2019)
Photo Credit: Statesman Journal
Jaden Nielsen-Skinner burst on to the Oregon high school basketball scene as an under sized point guard whose confident play helped lead the South Salem Saxons to the 2016 6A state semifinals. His command of the position and willingness to take clutch shots impressed coaches and evaluators alike.
We caught up with “Skinny”, the #3 ranked player in the class of 2019, to get his thoughts on his sophomore season, how the AAU schedule is going so far, and what he’s looking for in a potential college choice.
“Our high school team was young and lacking in height this year. I needed to do a better job of leading the team and that’s something I’m working on for next year.” “We struggled at times in a tough league but the highlight was probably a season opening win over South Eugene when we came from 24 points down to beat them at the buzzer.” Skinner who averaged 19 points and 3 assists a game earned all league honors in the competitive Valley League is excited to be playing for The Hoop Salem during the spring AAU season. “We have been playing really well as a team. I love the guys on the squad, we share the ball really well and we can all shoot, which makes it fun.” College contact and interest in Skinny has started to pick up after several strong performances as schools such as Portland, San Francisco, Western Oregon, & Cal Poly have reached out in recent weeks. “I’m looking for a school that lets me run the team, someone who trusts his point guard to let him lead the team and win games. That’s all that matters to me is winning games. It’s that simple.” Skinner expressed an interest in studying history or business during college.
When asked to assess his strengths and weaknesses, Skinner was very honest in his self evaluation. “I think I have good court vision and pass really well and I think I finish well for my size.” “I need to continue to get stronger, work on my defense, and keep getting consistent with my jumper. I also need to focus on staying positive during tough situations.”
Skinner is excited for the rest of the off season and for the chance to get the Saxons back to the state tournament next season.
Prep Hoops Oregon Evaluation: Jaden Nielsen Skinner is a smallish point guard who flat out knows how to play. Great feel for the game with tremendous floor vision and a desire to make his teammates better. An improving shooter who can also make plays at all three levels. Needs to continue to work on his strength. Also must continue to grow as a defender, especially in the pick and roll game. Definitely a scholarship player, what level remains to be seen.