Francisco’s Finest: RHP Classic (2019s/Part 1)
Rolling Hills Prep Fall Classic
Cerritos College
In the past few years, “fall ball” has taken on a whole new feel in terms of evaluating. Dinos Trigonis has his ultra-successful Pangos All Frosh-Soph Camps which take place all over the country. Meanwhile Etop Udo-Ema launched “The LEAGUE”a few years ago—showcasing most of the elite talent from Southern California and even Nevada.
Presently, one-day events featuring a number of intriguing match ups of the best teams in Southern California appears to be the new trend—and that is exactly what went down at Cerritos College as Harvey Kitani put together the 1st Annual Rolling Hills Prep Fall Classic—and it was a dandy.
Here are the superlatives of the event.
Francisco’s Finest (Best of the 2019s)
(Part 1)
Most Versatile
Isaiah Mobley (Temecula Valley/Rancho Christian)
PF, 6-foot-9, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: When it comes to impacting the game in multiple ways, there are not too many prospects in the West that impact a game like Mobley can. He can hurt his opponents with his perimeter skills or venture down the block and exhibit his much-improved post game. Elbow jump shots, pin-point passes, and a knack to score are part of his arsenal.
Most Improved
Robert McRae (Los Angeles/Fairfax)
SG, 6-foot-2, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: There may not be a more consistent guard in So-Cal in the Class of 2019 in terms of assertiveness and production. McRae is a winner due to his determined mindset, willingness to attack the rim, and improved jump shot. Definitely one of the Top 10 prospects in the Class of 2019 in Southern California.
Best Shooter
Josh Vazquez (Torrance/Bishop Montgomery)
SG, 6-foot-2, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: If you’re looking for a competitive combo-guard who can knock down deep jump shots with relative ease, look no further than Mr. Vazquez. He gets great lift on his shot and he is equally effective off the catch or pulling up in transition.
Jack of All Trades
Scotty Pippen Jr. (Chatsworth/Sierra Canyon)
SG, 6-foot-2, 160 pounds
Joel’s Take: Like his father (Scottie), Pippen Jr. is a well-rounded player. He is one of the better on-ball defenders, is a relentless attacker in transition, creates for teammates off the bounce, and he can knock down open jump shots. Look for him to be one of the better sleeper-types in Southern California this up-and-coming season.
Oscar Lopez (Torrance/Bishop Montgomery)
WF, 6-foot-4, 190 pounds
Joel’s Take: Lopez has reshaped his frame (less bulky) and as a result his game has gone to a new level. The multi-skilled wing-type can convert baskets in transition, but it’s his innate passing that catches your eye. As he continues to improve his outside touch, his stock will continue to rise.
Best Glue-Type
Chris Koon ISan Pedro/Rolling Hills Prep)
WF, 6-foot-5, 200 pounds
Joel’s Take: Koon is a hard-nosed “basketball player.” The well-built left hander can knock in deep jump shots, deliver the nifty assist, push the ball hard in transition, or snag a rebound in traffic. Whatever the team needs, Koon is usually the one who comes up with the play.
Mr. Dependable
Will Crawford (Torrance/Bishop Montgomery)
PF, 6-foot-5, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: Crawford is built like a defensive end in football, but it’s his basketball acumen that stands out. The burly 4-man impacts the game with his sound defense in the paint, good hands, rebounding prowess, and soft shooting touch. Every team needs a player like Crawford, if they like winning.