2019 Rankings Breakdown: Beltway Forwards Part 1
PrepHoops Maryland recently updated the class of 2019 player rankings. Getting a list of 75 players and choosing which rank best fits the individual was an extremely difficult challenge. With most of the list consisting of Division I prospects, there is no shortage of talent to go around.
The D.C. Metropolitan Area is known for breeding elite talent in the sport of basketball. The class of 2019 is no different. Here’s a look at part one of the Beltway forwards from the rankings.
MAKHI MITCHELL | 6’10 F | MCNAMARA/DC BLUE DEVILS | #1 OVERALL
Mitchell is a physically dominant force paint presence. He plays with just a bit more finesse and skill than his twin brother, and is an excellent playmaker. Mitchell is a vocal leader, and plays with a tremendous amount of effort at all times.
KARIM COULIBALY | 6’10 F | PALLOTTI/NEW WORLD | #3 OVERALL
Coulibaly is a long-limbed left handed forward who can face up and score from beyond the arc, but is developing a wide arsenal of moves he can use in the post. A very good rebounder with solid box out fundamentals, the native of Mali is an active force defensively as he is a natural rim protector.
EJ JARVIS | 6’9 F | MARET/TEAM TAKEOVER | #4 OVERALL
Jarvis is an intelligent forward who plays with a high motor. The lefty has nice touch from mid range, and is an excellent passer from the post. Jarvis is always running the floor and filling the lanes. He crashes the boards hard, and is always available for a dump off.
MEKHI LONG | 6’7 F | RYKEN/TEAM ST8MENT | #7 OVERALL
Long is a versatile and athletic forward who can guard virtually any position on the floor. At 6’7, Long has the ability to break down bigger defenders off the dribble, and shoot over smaller ones. He is adept at getting in the lane, and is always seeking contact on his aggressive takes.
MAKHEL MITCHELL | 6’10 F | MCNAMARA/DC BLUE DEVILS | #8 OVERALL
Mitchell compliments his older brother nicely, as he is the better rim protector. A more physically stout force, the rising junior forward is a strong finisher through contact. He is also a very good passer.