Hidden Gems (LM-LM+)
In this article:
For various reasons surefire D-1 prospects get overlooked each recruiting cycle. Below are some players that certainly will wind up at the Division I level despite their uneven interest.
2018 PF Gaven Pinkley (MO)-
The Class of 2018 was poor for bigs. Before that realization hit Gaven Pinkley was already earning low-major offers. While he still holds several offers, Gavin and family are looking for something more. The 6-foot-8 forward fits mold of a faceup four. He defends the rim and figures to play either a LM-MM post position or power forward for a HM program. Gaven was trained and coached by one of St. Louis’ best Terrell Ramey.
2018 G Jharon Whitfield (LA)-
The 6-foot-3 guard makes winning a tradition. He can shoot or deliver the rock. Whitfield suffered an injury over a year ago, but he is back. That three of Whitfield’s former AAU teammates signed (Kobe Julien, Greg Williams, Josh LeBlanc) is no accident. The power guard plays well with great players and projects as a combo guard at the next level.
2018 G Kelvin Allen (MS)-
Olive Branch High School features numerous college prospects (D.J. Jeffries, Shamar Brown, Joe Cooper, etc.). Playing a difficult Southwind (8-0) team Friday, Kelvin Allen lead his team in scoring. In fact, he made an enormous three-pointer to force overtime. Allen’s ability to score in bunches makes him an attractive prospect.
2019 G Cameron Beatty (TX)-
Most of the players in this article are seniors, but this recruiting omission is so egregious it belongs here. Cam Beatty has point guard handles at 6-foot-5. He wins basketball games for Fort Bend Stephen F. Austin High. His coaches placed the ball in his hands early and as he grew and grew the handles never left. Beatty will certainly attract prominent offers during the coming AAU season, but an early evaluation could help some college get out front early.
2018 PF Paul O’Leary (IL)-
Paul is a rugged big that suffered an ill-timed ankle fracture right before his most critical LIVE period. Teams like Colgate, Holy Cross were sniffing around prior to injury. O’Leary needs to be fully healthy because his game is largely predicated on hustle and power. O’Leary (PrepHoopsIL #58) definitely slipped off college radars, but his combination of size and energy are hard to find in the 2018 class.
2018 G Caleb Fields (TN)-
PrepHoopsTN brings up Caleb Fields almost weekly. The quick-burst point guard can take over a basketball game. During the summer Caleb ran with Team Carroll out of Alabama, but he belongs alongside better shooting teammates. Fields’ ability to dart into the lane erodes if nobody else can hit the outside shot. Defenses have to keep honest against Marshall County because 2019 G K.J. Johnson buries jumpers. Fields does have some looks, but they are severely lacking considering his amazing first step and dependable jumper.
2018 PG Robert Kendrick (MS)-
This strong lead guard had heavier D1 interest a year ago, but a series of coaching changes left his options wanting. Robert Kendrick averages 20+ ppg, 6+ rpg, and 4+ apg for powerhouse Velma Jackson High School.
