Maryland/DC/VA Summer Stock Boosters: 2020 Bigs (Part 1)
We spent most of June and July on the road evaluating prospects from the DMV at various events, and now its time to take a look back at what we’ve learned. Here we begin by taking a look at some of the players who’ve helped themselves with consistently strong play over the summer. In this edition we highlight five class of 2020 bigs that have done just that.
6’10 PF John Ojiako | Team Thrill/Patterson (MD)
At Hoop Group Summer Jam Fest, John Ojiako was on the short list of dominant bigs, regardless of age group. Armed with long-limbs at 6-foot-10, he is an athletic freak who rebounds well out of his area and can finish in traffic with the best. Ojiako, a no-brainer high major division one prospect, will be an immediate impact player for a sneaky good Patterson team.
6’10 C Jake Berry | DC Premier/Bishop O’Connell (VA)
Jake Berry can stretch the floor as well as any big in the area. The 6-foot-10 southpaw, who is almost automatic when he sets his feet, is also a very good shot blocker and defensive rebounder. O’Connell will benefit from Berry’s return, and will rely on him heavily this upcoming season.
When your 6’9 big can spray it for deep
Jake Berry@OConnellBBall #SummerLeague#CapitolHoops pic.twitter.com/DwtEnOTq9B— Capitol Hoops Summer League at DeMatha+ (@CapitolHoopsSL) June 5, 2018
6’7 PF Josh Odunowo | Team BBC/Reservoir (MD)
When talking about the most slept on bigs in the region, Josh Odunowo is probably near the top of the list. The lanky 6-foot-7 big man, who plays much bigger than his listed height, is a very good athlete who plays with a tremendous motor. It probably won’t be much longer before we see Odunowo’s recruitment take off.
6’10 PF Burke Smith | Team Richmond-Garner Road/Trinity Episcopal (VA)
Burke Smith is learning how to consistently contribute while growing into his body. Right now, his biggest assets are his shot blocking ability and his jump shot. Smith’s back to the basket game has improved, but for him to be considered a high major big, he has to show that he can effectively and consistently defend ball screens.
6’8 PF Paul Smith | Team Takeover/DeMatha (MD)
DeMatha will likely rely heavily on Paul Smith as a key part of their rotation this upcoming season. After putting together a strong body of work over the summer, it appears he’s ready to take on an increased role. Smith has proved that he can get it done on both ends of the floor, but the biggest key with him is consistency.