Top Performers: Hialeah, Miami
Ian Tajalli, Coral Springs Charter
As a 6-foot-5 knockdown shooter with sneaky bounce, Tajalli brings a number of different attributes. He can play multiple positions, though he’s primary a perimeter-oriented four.
Tajalli scored 23 points (9-for-17 FG) and pulled down 10 boards during Charter Springs Charter’s 72-60 win over Mater Lakes Academy during the RMF tournament.
Cyrus Largie, Mater Lakes Academy
The 6-foot-2 Class of 2019 guard plays with a toughness, a swagger, and an adeptness at getting his shot off via pull-ups, strep-backs, and straight-away 3-pointers.
A big guard, Largie’s build enables him to barrel his way into the rim. Largie’s effectiveness on the glass and ability to play the role of facilitator is why he’s underrated.
Alejandro Cuevas, Mater Lakes Academy
While the wiry Class of 2018 6-foot-6 Center is a little undersized, he embraces the fighter mentality within him. Cuevas possesses a feathery jumper and can score inside, though he needs an increased level of toughness when guarding bigger, behemoth-sized Centers down in the trenches. Cuevas turned in an efficient account of himself with a 12-point performance (6-for-8 FG) against Coral Springs Charter at the aforementioned RMF tournament.
He’s shown promise as a versatile defender, glass eater, and sparks the transition offense on a rebound and quick outlet pass.
Seven Ferguson, Mater Academy
Playing for a legendary coach of Marcos “Shakey” Rodriguez’ caliber, toughness isn’t just expected–it is preached with an iron fist.
Rodriguez has molded the likes of Carlos Arroyo and Raja Bell during his time at Florida International University. Taking a play off or making an errant pass instantly lands you bench splinters in his system.
Ferguson is solid in all phases, poised during crunch time.
That’s what makes the 6-foot-4, 170-pound forward so intriguing. While Ferguson doesn’t thrive in one particular component of his game, he embraces the jack of all trades role. Ferguson hustles and defends all 94 feet. He battles for 50-50 balls. He contests shots and crashes the boards and provides hustle points that other players don’t get.
Ferguson is a hard-working and high-motored multi-positional player who holds himself to a lofty standard and buys in. This is what makes his full throttle style so tailor cut for Rodriguez’ style.