Small-Town Sleepers (Part 2)
Many of these players have made huge impacts on their teams but have gone unnoticed due to playing in a small town. College coaches take note of these small-town sleepers heading into summer:
Jaqueze Kirby (Jeff Davis/Upward Stars)- Jaqueze Kirby (pictured) will be a force this year for the Upward Stars. Last season he averaged 20 points and 14 rebounds per game for Jeff Davis and earned Class AA 1st Team All-State honors. The 6’6 forward is super athletic and plays with an extremely high motor. He also can knock down jump shots when left open. Kirby currently claims interest from Georgia Tech, South Carolina, and Virginia Tech.
Devin Butts (Stratford Academy/Georgia Team Magic)– Butts is a pure scorer. His combination of ballhandling, three-point shooting, and athleticism reminds me of a young Jamal Crawford. Butts’ streaking shooting could make the difference this summer for Georgia Team Magic. He currently holds offers from Jacksonville State, Winthrop, and Georgia State.
Preston Crisp (Woodville Tompkins/Smyrna Stars)– The 6’4 guard averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds heading into the summer. Davis is very efficient scoring in the mid-range and also has great court vision. Last season, he led Woodville Tompkins to win the region championship and earned 1st Team All-Region and 1st Team All-State honors.
Jaylen Lamar (Wilkinson County)- The junior secured the Class A state championship last season for Wilkinson County with a game-high 22 points. He is quick off the dribble and has a knack for finishing around the rim. Lamar showed the ability to lead his team and earned All-Region along with 2nd Team All-State Honors.
Keundre Campbell (Webster County)– Campbell led Class A in scoring this season at 24 points per game. He earned Region 1A Player of the Year due to his efforts. Campbell excels at shooting the ball from long range and rebounds very well for his position. The 6’3 guard’s versatility will transfer over nicely at the next level.