Preview: Westminster vs University School Headlines Hoop Exchange 2017 Shootout
It is only fitting that the most heavily billed matchup of Hoop Exchange’s 2017 Southern Shootout is saved for the tail end of Friday’s slate.
Already boasting one of the nation’s most heavily courted recruits in 6-foot-10 Class of 2019 forward Vernon Carey Jr., no team in Florida reaped the rewards of the transfer market like University School.
The program bolstered its lineup with long and talented 6-foot-7 Class of 2020 wing Scottie Barnes, a witty passer and adroit playmaker.
Barnes registers as a Top-5 recruit nationally, a fact solidified by his crafty scoring aptitude and knack for attacking.
The star power extends to the backcourt, where West Virginia commit Trey Doomes brings advanced slashing, smooth scoring off the dribble, and pro level finishing in the open court.
This much was on display during the Nike EYBL Session 3 in Atlanta, when the Class of 2018 lefty put his entire arsenal on display.
The 6-foot-3, 185-pound guard is an integral piece filling the scoring void left by 7-foot-1 Class of 2019 prospect Balsa Koprivica.
Koprivica transferred to Windermere Prep during the off-season.
Completing University School’s radiant quartet is New Mexico-signee Drue Drinnon, a transfer by way of Pebblebrook (GA).
After playing second fiddle to current Alabama star Collin Sexton at Pebblebrook last year, Drinnon brings superior passing and advanced game management aptitude to Fort Lauderdale.
With their vaunted high-low game, souped up transition game, and wall to wall defensive energy, University School is a major barometer matchup for Westminster.
FGCU commit Zach Scott, who averaged 18 points and six assists as a junior last year, is off to a sizzling start for the reigning state champion.
Scott put together a dazzling, 26-point performance punctuated by a game-winner at the buzzer from half court in an overtime thriller against North Miami Senior High.
Dudley Blackwell, a high-rising 6-foot-6 sophomore, oozes of potential. Athletic and comfortable putting the ball on the deck and creating for himself and teammates, Blackwell recently picked up an offer from Oklahoma State.
Sharpshooter Chase Johnston is a potential high impact mid major recruit. He exemplified this against North Miami, hitting big shots under heightened pressure.
The evolution of Johnston’s all around game shows you can’t pigeonhole him as strictly a knockdown guy.