Get to know the 2019 Oklahoma top five
The Prep Hoops staff has released a new edition of the Oklahoma 2019 Rankings. There was a major shake up at the top with the top two spots becoming new players. Posts seem to be the cream of the crop in the Oklahoma 2019 Class. Get a look at why the players moved up in the rankings, the analysis of their game and what do they need to improve on.
1. Jacob Germany Post
Germany slid up to the top spot due to his High Major potential in the Post. This summer Germany had signs of High Major Division I play on the court with Team Griffin on the Nike Circuit. He stands at every bit of 6’10 with the skills to affect the game on both ends. Using his size and frame Germany became a consistent double digit rebounder this summer. A huge plus in Germany’s arsenal is his ability to run the floor. Germany needs to get stronger and tougher inside. When he faced players at his size on the national level it was evident he must put on weight and continue to enhance his post moves. Germany has not made it to the big time yet, but if he works hard over the next two years, Germany will become a household name around the state.
2. Kalib Boone Post
Boone leaps up to the number two spot in the 2019 Oklahoma Class after showing his upside on both ends of the floor this summer. Oklahoma Run PWP gave Boone the perfect stage to shine in the Post. He was huge defensively using his 6’8 frame with his long wingspan to reek havoc on opponents. The body of Boone also helped him to become a force on the glass. Boone is still raw on the offensive end. However, the frame and athleticism have schools intrigued by his potential. If Boone can improve offensively and keep his intensity on the defensive end look out. Boone is projected by Prep Hoops to the Mid Major+ Division I level.
3. Kobe Burgess Combo Guard
Burgess fell from the top spot to #3 in the 2019 Class a great part due to the elevation in Germany and Boone’s game. The skills of Burgess that intrigue colleges are his quickness, defensive passion and driving skills to the rim. The biggest areas of improvement needed in Burgess game are his jump shot, becoming more consistent each game and leadership. The growth in his game over the next couple of years will be fun to watch. Burgess projects to the Mid Major Division I level.
4. Micah Thomas Point Guard
Thomas moves up two spots in the rankings after his stellar summer with Oklahoma Run PWP. Size will always limit Thomas to some degree, but he showed how he could overcome it with his skill set. Thomas runs the offense like a well-oiled machine. This summer Thomas was super consistent scoring the ball well with a good assist to turnover ratio. The quickness and jumper of Thomas make him extremely tough to guard. The biggest area for Thomas to improve is on the defensive end. Thomas project to the Mid Major Division I level.
5. Shemar Smith Forward
Smith is the biggest riser in the 2019 Oklahoma Class. This summer Smith grew a ton at the four spot for the Oklahoma Power. He is athletic at 6’6 with a high motor. The ease Smith scored the ball with around the basket was impressive. Not only was he very efficient around the basket, but he also finished through contact well. Smith even showed signs of stretching the defense with a three-point shot. At the Forward spot, Smith still has a lot to learn, but the potential is there. Skills Smith needs to improve are continue to learn the game, enhance his offensive post moves and three-point shot.
For more information email Matt@prephoops.com