2018 Rankings Breakdown: Francisco’s Finest (part 1)
Class of 2018
Our initial Southern California 2018 rankings have been unveiled and it’s now time to evaluate the cream of the crop.
Part 1
Most Upside
Marvin Bagley III (Chatsworth, CA./Sierra Canyon)
Joel’s Take: Will he be mentioned with some of the All-Time greats like John Williams, Paul Pierce, Tracy Murray, Baron Davis, and most recently Lonzo Ball? An Open Division State Championship would do wonders for this ultra-talented prospect.
Bol Bol (Santa Ana, CA/Mater Dei)
Joel’s Take: One of the most freakish talents to ever lace them up in So-Cal. Impeccable timing and length at both ends and has a feathery touch out to 20-feet. The question remains–is he hungry enough to be the best? Not sure at this point.
Best Scorers
David Singleton (Torrance, CA./ Bishop Montgomery)
Joel’s Take: Singleton can score from all three levels and is a bull in transition.
Bryce Hamilton (Pasadena, CA./Pasadena)
Joel’s Take: Will not turn 17 until the fall, which is an aberration considering the norm of holding kids back nowadays. Nevertheless, this lefty has improved his 3-point touch and is a menace when attacking in transition.
Most Polished Point Guard
Spencer Freedman (Santa Ana, CA/ Mater Dei)
Joel’s Take: Compares favorably to Jalen Brunsen (Villanova) in terms of facilitating and shooting ability.
Mr. Fundamental
Riley Battin (Oak Park, CA./Oak Park)
Joel’s Take: Has post moves that would make Boston Celtic great Kevin McHale proud–or if you prefer Tim Duncan.
Future Point Guard?
Devonaire Doutrive (Lake Balboa, CA/ Birmingham)
Joel’s Take: If his jump shot comes alive, look out. His slick ball handling skills and passing are a thing of beauty.
Diamond in the rough
Gary Williams (Cerritos, CA./ Gahr)
Joel’s Take: The athleticism, frame, and shooting are present in his game. If he gets a bit nastier at both ends and polishes his ball handling, his future is sweet.
Most Athletic
Andre Ball (Chino Hills, CA/Chino Hills)
Joel’s Take: Does his motor fluctuate? Yes. Has he been injury prone? Yes. Can he fly over would-be defenders? Yes.