Prospect Spotlight: Isaac James (2020)
This summer in Baltimore, there were a number of players who transferred schools. While many surfaced headlines whether it be via social media or various media outlets, there were also plenty that went under the radar. Just because their move wasn’t covered heavily doesn’t mean they don’t have a chance to make a big impact on their new team.
One of those players is 6’7 sophomore forward Issac James. James transferred from Independence School in large part because of the fact that they didn’t have a basketball program. Now, he’ll be a key contributor for the reigning Class 2A state champion Patterson Clippers.
James is a versatile forward that has many to offer the Patterson team that lost former star 2019 forward Marvin Price when he transferred to Huntington Prep this summer. While replacing Price is much easier said than done, James has the chance to be quite a player with continued development.
His athleticism allows him to play both in paint and out on the perimeter. He has a nice shooting stroke from 15 feet and can even stretch out to the three-point line. The Clippers are loaded with good guards though, so James knows he’ll have to adjust to their playmaking and expand his skill set.
“I can shoot from all three levels, but I’m really working on my post game since I’m playing in the paint a lot more,” James told Prep Hoops. “Coach Martin expects me to have a big impact with rebounds this season.”
I saw James play recently matched up against a 6’11 big man and he handled it very well. Not only was James being physical, but he displayed a great motor and ability to finish around the rim despite having a shot-blocking presence around him at all times.
This past spring/summer, James played for Team Thrill where he focused on getting his shot more consistent and spending more time in the weight room to become more physically imposing in the paint. The 2020 forward is still a work in progress, but considering this will be his first year playing high school basketball, there is plenty of potential for growth.
Hampton has shown interest in James, but expect that list to grow as he gets more exposure playing under a great coach in Harry Martin this season at Patterson.