Summer Recap: Francisco’s Finest (Part 1)
In terms of scouting we’re in the dog days of August, but it’s also the ideal time to lounge at the beach or pool if you prefer and reflect on the most memorable performances you witnessed during the mayhem of the July recruiting period.
In the month of July it would be ideal to jump into a “Super Hero” suit or in this case take the role of the villain—“The Everywhere Man.” With that being said, here are the winners of “The Francisco’s” (Players who put together eye-catching performances during July).
Francisco’s Finest (Part 1)
Best Two-way Player
Scottie Lewis (Tinton Falls, NJ/ Ranney)
2019, SG, 6-foot-5, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: When Lewis takes the floor, you can expect something good to happen. The high-energy 2-guard is one of the best finishers in high school and his passing acumen is impressive. Defensively, he protects the rim and his instincts are off the charts. His jump shot is streaky, but he’s a monster talent.
Most Skilled (Perimeter)
Darius Bazley (Cincinnati, OH/ Princeton)
2018, PF, 6-foot-8, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: The Syracuse commit has some Lamar Odom to his game. He is an ultra-skilled left hander who impacts the game with his rim protection, playmaking ability (scoring or facilitating), and explosiveness.
LaMelo Ball (Chino Hills, CA/ Chino Hills)
2019, PG, 6-foot-4, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: Regardless how you feel about his father’s antics, “Melo” has the ball skills, shooting ability, and point guard feel to be the best guard in the country. As he continues to mature (will be 16 in August), his overall game and hopefully his decision making (takes ill-advised shots) will continue to improve as well.
Most Skilled (Post)
Mathew Hurt (Rochester, MN/ John Marshall)
2019, 6-foot-8, 215 pounds
Joel’s Take: Hurt has that prototypical game at the power forward position. He can step out and display his feathery jump shot or venture inside and let go one of his feathery jump hooks. He needs to play with more physicality (doesn’t like contact), but that should come with added strength.
Future McDonald’s All-Americans
Precious Achiuwa (Newark, NJ, Saint Benedict’s)
2019, PF, 6-foot-8, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: Not sure if there was another 2019 prospect that saw his stock rise as much as Achiuwa. The multi-skilled 4-man needs to improve his ball skills against pressure, but his jump shot is smooth and he impacts the game with is rebounding and passing.
Ashton Hagans (Mouth of Wilson, VA/ Oak Hill Academy)
2019, PG, 6-foot-4, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Known for his defense, Hagans is arguably one of the Top 3 point guards in the class along with Cole Anthony and LaMelo Ball. He has great size, high-level vision, and his motor is terrific.
Mr. No Nonsense
Charles Bassey (San Antonio, TX/ St. Anthony)
2019, C, 6-foot-11, 230 pounds
Joel’s Take: Assertive, skilled, high motor, and an expressionless demeanor describe the best true center in high school basketball. Whether it’s nailing an elbow jump shot or drop stepping on a would-be defender, Bassey is merciless—not too mention he is one of the premier rim protectors in the country.
Basketball Players
Nathan Laszewski (Northfield, NH/ Mt. Hernon)
2018, PF, 6-foot-8, 215 pounds
Joel’s Take: It won’t matter where Laszewski enrolls in college because he’s ready to play in any system. Feathery touch from the perimeter, fundamentally sound out on the perimeter (jab steps) and can beat opponents off the dribble. Possesses natural instincts for this game inside-and-out.
Dana Tate (Brockton, MA/ MacDuffie)
2018, SF, 6-foot-6, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: Tate is a physical wing-type that makes plays at both ends whether it be rebounding, passing, or scoring. Has terrific hands and vision and has that innate ability of always being around the ball. Due to his skill set and feel he’ll be able to play at either the 3 or the 4 at the next level.