Recruiting Report: 2019 Jaden Shackelford
Recruiting Report : 2019 Jaden Shackelford
Versatility appears to be a trending skill in today’s game, and Jaden Shackelford (Hesperia HS) fits that description to a tee. The 6-foot-3 combo-guard is equally effective as either a scorer or facilitator.
This fall evaluation period has given scouts yet another opportunity to watch and monitor player development, and Shackelford has taken advantage of these opportunities. At each camp setting he had had his full skill set on display.
“I feel the strengths of my game are both my scoring ability as well as getting teammates involved early and often,” explains Shackelford. While watching him you quickly notice his advanced feel for the game as he zips passes in the open court without any wasted dribbling and if the scoring opportunity presents itself, he’ll either slash his way to the rim or drop in a deep 3-point shot.
Shackelford is one of the best kept national secretsWhile it’s obvious that he possesses the skill set to play at the college level and the proof is there with his increasing college interest including USC, Oregon State, Montana, Pepperdine, and UC Irvine among others. However, he noted there are areas of his game—one being rebounding—that he wants to become more productive.
“Also improving my defense—specifically my lateral quickness—is a focal point. I want to be able to shut down opposing guards that are gifted scorers,” explains Shackelford.
Knowing his dedicated mindset and team-oriented approach, Shackelford should be one of the better guards, regardless of class, that will attract more and more colleges.
“Team success is my ultimate goal when playing,” Shackelford, noted.