Recruiting Report: Jalen Boyd (2018)
Small forward Jalen Boyd is the more athletic of the 2018 twins from St. Joseph’s. He stands at 6’4” with an angular build. Wiry strong, but will definitely need to continue to add strength over the next year before he gets to college. Boyd is an explosive wing that has a quick first step. Best attacking from the high-post area where he can put it on the deck a couple times and get to the rim. Solid slasher that can also dish it off at the last minute if the help defender comes over. Can also hit a mid-range jumper in rhythm. Not quite as effective from three at this stage. Quick second jump allows him to get on the glass. Like what he brings to the table on the defensive end. Active on ball defender that moves his feet, recovers, and contests shots. Projects as a potential D2 prospect in the right system. Otherwise a coveted D3/NAIA player.
Boyd is running with a new squad this spring in Chicago Lockdown.
“So far it is going good. Different program from last year. It is going well so far. I am trying to gel with these guys and get better as a group.”
He told us some of the areas he is focusing on in his game.
“I am trying to improve and show people I can beat people off the dribble and shoot.”
How was his year at St. Joseph’s?
“It could have gone better. With the team we had I feel we could have made a push downstate, but unfortunately it ended early. Next year it will be good. I played good in the second half. My first half was kind of shaky. The second half I got my confidence back up.”
One of the highlights of the season was getting their legendary coach Gene Pingatore his 1,000 win.
“It was very good because it was more for the program and the history of St. Joseph’s. Some very well-known players came back for that game just for coach.”
Only recruiting interest at this point is from D2 Ferris State who extended Boyd and his brother Jordan offers. They visited back in October.
“The visit was great. It was my first time being on a college campus. The atmosphere was crazy. They like us a lot. They like how versatile are.”
What can he bring to a team at the next level?
“I can bring defense, leadership, and scoring.”