Mid-Season Breakout Players
In this article:
2020 PG Deivon Smith (Grayson)- Already had 2 D1 offers coming out of the summer, but his recruitment has absolutely exploded since the season started. Offered by Florida, TCU, St. John’s, Hofstra, UGA, Xavier, Mississippi State, Georgia State, and Miami so far this winter. One of the most athletic PGs you will find, fearless mentality, and a lockdown defender. Always comes to compete no matter what.
2021 SG Logan Turner (Centennial)- Had a solid freshman season but has taken his play to a whole different level this year. Scoring 20+ points in nearly every game for the Knights, including multiple outbursts of 30 or more. He has earned a spot in the top 10 in the next rankings update that will come out within the next few weeks. The Hype 2021 team of Turner, Matt Cleveland, Cole Middleton, Sutton Smith, and others will be a scary sight for other 16U teams.
2020 PG Caleb Byrd (Rome)- Ended the fall with a strong performance at the Preview and has carried that momentum into the season. Most recently had an absurd game with 51 points at the Woodward War Eagle Classic. Scoring over 30 points every game and putting the entire state on notice with his production. Byrd should be a hot recruit by the time spring rolls around.
2021 W Matt Cleveland (Cambridge)- Cleveland had a great summer, has gotten taller, and has improved considerably since last winter. Has been very consistent so far this season, putting together games of 20+ points nightly and hurting opponents with his versatility. Extremely long arms, a smooth game, and legitimate guard skills make Cleveland a prospect that high major programs will be keeping track of closely.
2019 PF Felix Uadiale (ELCA)- Averaging a double-double of 11 PPG and 13 RPG after only averaging 3 PPG and 3.6 RPG in 2017-18. Super active on both ends of the floor, tireless rebounder, nice mobility and athleticism. Has developed some skill on the offensive end and is starting to get looks from various college programs who think he could be a great piece down the road.
2020 SG Saigon Kitt (Sprayberry)- Has stepped up as a consistent double-digit scorer for a Sprayberry team that is loaded with weapons. Multiple 20-point games, has been a big part in their 10-0 record. Lefty with a quick trigger, stays shot-ready, has deep range. More capable off the bounce than he is given credit for. The TOC at Wheeler will be a great opportunity for him and the Jackets.
2021 G Emondre Bowles (Johnson-Savannah)- Isn’t heard about as much being in Savannah but is putting together a very nice sophomore season. Was averaging 15.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.0 APG, and 2.8 SPG before playing in a holiday tournament last week, where he added performances of 22 and 29 points. Scores in a variety of ways, very confident, pesky on defense. Not surprised with his production after seeing him with Savannah Unified this summer.
2021 G George Pridgett (Roswell)- Came on strong for the Hornets late last season and impressed throughout the summer and into the fall. Has proven to be a key piece and clutch player for Roswell, forming a nice guard trio with Miles Herron and Kolby Wade. Poised, laid-back lefty who can really shoot and has some craftiness in the lane. Has been steady this winter and isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.
2019 G Jervon Morris (Paulding County)- Has led Paulding County to a great start to the season, averaging nearly 25 PPG. Has hit almost 50 3’s on 41% from deep, also averaging 3.8 SPG. Had a good summer with the FCI Warriors who had numerous under the radar players. Starting to emerge as a very attractive college prospect, production in undeniable.
2020 F Trent Gordon (Duluth)- Averaging a near double-double of 10.7 PPG and 8.8 RPG, improving from 2.6 PPG and 2.5 RPG in 2017-18. Springy forward who is aggressive in the paint and excels as a rebounder and finisher. Has given Duluth another important frontcourt piece to go alongside Devin Evans. Also shooting 60% from the field; does not need tons of touches to be productive.
2020 SG PJ Carter (Langston Hughes)- Has more than taken advantage of the opportunity presented to him with the graduation of Landers Nolley. Averaging over 23 PPG after avering 6.7 PPG last season. One of the best shooters in the state, extremely quick release, confident from any spot on the floor. Nice size for a shooter, soft touch. Should start to gets lots of D1 attention in the coming months.
2019 F Colin Kahl (Centennial)– I’ve said it multiple times now, but I’m not sure you’ll find someone who has improved as much as Kahl over the past year. Virtually unknown and had a limited role for the Knights last season. Double-double threat every time out, was averaging 18 PPG and 10 RPG just over a week ago. Had high expectations for Kahl after watching him this summer and fall. Hearing from multiple high academic programs.
2021 W Jusaun Holt (St. Francis)- Barely saw the floor last season but showed huge strides in the summer and fall. Up to 6’5” now, provides St. Francis with another viable option on offense, rebounds well. Averaging 11.8 PPG and 8.3 RPG on a team that has lots of talent. Has been efficient shooting the ball, shooting 48% from 3 and 2nd on the team in threes made. One to track.