Francisco’s Finest: Ron Massey Memorial (2019 Playmakers)
Ron Massey Memorial Fall Hoops Classic
Cerritos, CA.
We have covered the best of the best from the Class of 2019 as well as the elite shooters. In our third installment we will look at the best playmakers—those that affect the game in the areas of scoring, passing, or a combination of the two skills.
Top Playmakers (2019)
Isaiah Mobley (Temecula/Rancho Christian)
PF, 6-foot-9, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: Mobley, although standing at 6-foot-9, was undoubtedly one of the better playmakers at the event. He is an astute passer, especially in the half court and overall shows a good feel for the game. He can score in the post as well as out to the 3-point stripe. But in order for his game to achieve new heights, he needs to advance the ball quicker in transition and fill the lane. Moreover, continued work on his fundamentals on the block (getting on balance) will elevate his stock as well.
Darryl Payton (Moreno Valley/Rancho Verde)
PG, 5-foot-9, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: If you were looking for one of the quicker players in the event, look no further than Payton. The gifted point guard prospect has exceptional speed and quickness and is tough to stop in transition. He has excellent vision and he can nail the 3-point shot as well. Defensively, he wreaks havoc due to his tenacity and athleticism.
Sedrick Hammond (Los Angeles/Cathedral)
PG, 6-foot-3, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: Great frame, terrific off the dribble (going right), and an improved jump shooter describes this up-and-coming point guard prospect. He gets most of his points relentlessly attacking off the dribble and getting to the rim, but he handed out some sweet assists too.
Sean Harlston (Compton/Dominguez)
SG, 6-foot-2, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: This dual-sport athlete took some time off the gridiron this season to focus on basketball—and he’s a legitimate college prospect on the hardwood as well. Harleston has the athleticism, mindset, and skill set to score at all three levels. He has knack of getting to the basket off the dribble, finishing through contact, or nailing a deep 3-point shot.
Gianni Hunt (Torrance/Bishop Montgomery)
PG, 6-foot-3, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: It could be argued that Hunt is one of the Top Five most improved players in his class. He possesses excellent size for the lead guard position and he gets to where he needs to go on the court due to his speed and tenacious mindset. Whether he is attacking in transition or showing off his improved shot, he is a gamer. For his game to go to another level he needs to advance the ball earlier in transition and polish his off-hand (right) finishes in the paint.
Chance Michels (Las Vegas/Bishop Gorman)
PG, 6-foot, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: Not too many guards can snap a two-handed pass like Michele. He has good size and he plays on balance—rarely forcing the issue. He is an old school point guard who thinks pass first (good feel), but he can also nail the 3-point shot.