Ohio’s 2020 Spring Stock-Risers
Sometimes you don’t need to wait until the traditional “right time” to make a move. And sometimes colleges don’t need to wait until July to extend an offer, because a prospect’s talent is so evident in April and May.
Several Ohio prospects are going into Columbus and Lima this weekend with offers already under their belt. Others are likely to gather them soon. To put a bow on the spring thus far, we’re taking a look at Ohio’s Spring Stock-Risers, both with and without offers. Although plenty of Ohio’s top prospects are playing well right now, this is the upper crust of spring performers.
Zeb Jackson, 6’3” G, C2K Elite / Maumee Valley
Jackson entered the spring as Ohio’s hottest 2020 prospect, and stock just continues to rise for the combo guard. His ability to create separation and hit with range off the dribble is unique. As he continues to add consistency from the 3-point line, Jackson closes the gap between production and potential.
Springtime offers: Providence, Ohio State
Grant Huffman, 6’4” G, Ohio Basketball Club / St. Edward
Coming off of a limited season because of an opening game ankle injury, Huffman put together two strong showings at the Gauntlet. Huffman can play either guard spot because of his decision-making, ball skills, height, and slashing ability.
Springtime offers: Xavier
Grant Whisman, 6’7” W/F, Mid Ohio Pumas Elite / Middletown Madison
The small town prospect came into this spring with increased burst and skill as a stretch forward/big wing. Whisman shows shades of 2019 Miami (OH) verbal commit Javin Etzler in the ways that he creates separation for his jumper and their comparable size.
Springtime offers: Cleveland State
VonCameron Davis, 6’4” W/F, C2K Elite / Walnut Ridge
Already a versatile defender, Davis has showcased the guard-like abilities on the offensive end that we’ve all been waiting for. Davis drives the ball with power and shot a promising 8/14 from deep in the two UAA sessions. In circuit play, Davis led C2K in points and rebounds.
Springtime offers: James Madison, Kent State
Matt Allocco, 6’3” PG, C2K Elite / Hilliard Bradley
Allocco is the point guard of C2K’s D-I backcourt and has done a stunning job leading the troops this season. His leadership on the floor shows itself in communication, poise in the lane, timely passing, and a lot of wins for C2K. Allocco would reach his upside with another inch of height because of what that would mean for his defensive ability.
Springtime offers: Kent State, Akron, Toledo
Jackson Ames, 6’10” C, Louisville Magic / West Clermont
Ames has Division I measurables with his strong frame at 6’10”. He’s able to swallow up defensive rebounds and provide rim protection with size. Continuing to develop as a decision-maker and offensive talent will boost his stock.
Springtime offers: Miami (OH)
Offers are yet to roll in for the following four prospects, but their performances this spring have changed their evaluation in a notable way.
Mo Njie, 6’8” C, C2K Elite / Centerville
After not earning much playing time in the winter, Njie has shown next level abilities on defense this season for C2K. He has excellent length, instincts, and discipline as a rim protector. The fly swatter also shows promising basketball foot work around the basket and will be a problem in the paint once he’s able to put it on the floor for one or two dribbles. Tons of upside.
Devontae Blanton, 6’6” W, All Ohio Red / St. Edward
Blanton has fully transition to the perimeter this spring for Red. Even when he can’t beat an opponent with the dribble, Blanton uses his upper body strength to sneak past defenders on the drive. Has spent time as a pass-first primary ball-handler. Blanton doesn’t take a ton of 3-pointers but is clearly improving on that shot. High percentage finisher who can rebound in traffic. We’d like to see him take advantage of mismatches on the block more willingly.
Ethyn Kuhns, 6’4” G, Nova (Alleyne) / Bloom Carroll
Kuhns has forced us to totally re-think our evaluation on him almost every week. He has obvious size on the wing with his mature frame and 6’4” height. Kuhns can lower the shoulder or use skill to create separation in the mid-range. Also capable of hitting the floater or laying it up in traffic. Spot-up shooting threat who always follows his shot on the miss. Physically capable of defending all guard spots.