Adidas DC Saturday A.M. Standouts
WASHINGTON, DC – Adidas is in DC this weekend for its regional qualifier, and Prep Hoops is in the gym checking out local prospects. Below is a breakdown of five standouts from Saturday’s morning contests.
JAMAL BARNES | 6’4 G | DC THUNDER/SSSAS ‘20
Jamal Barnes is looking good so far this weekend for DC Thunder. Barnes is hitting shots while contributing in a myriad of areas on both ends of the floor. Defensively, he’s been solid on the ball and active in help. Barnes has been good in transition where he showcases his craftiness when attacking the basket.
JORDAN BRATHWAITE | 6’6 F | NEW WORLD/GCS ‘20
One thing I like about Jordan Brathwaite is how he impacts the game without demanding the ball. Brathwaite is active on the boards and runs the floor with purpose. He’s got long arms and great hands which make him a good lob threat, but he can also knock down the 15-footer if left open.
JAMEL MELVIN | 6’9 F/C | DC THUNDER/POTOMAC SCHOOL ‘20
Jamel Melvin is the best shot blocker I’ve seen so far this weekend. At 6-foot-9, he’s got long arms and instinctive timing. Melvin is also adept at using his length to make an impact on the boards. He is often successful at tapping the ball out which creates extra possessions on the offensive end.
CHRIS SMITH | 6’8 F | DC THUNDER/PALLOTTI ‘20
Chris Smith is a physical inside presence who can really pass out of the post. He’s a good defensive rebounder who can make a quick outlet pass that ignites the break. Smith moves bodies in the paint and crashes the offensive boards relentlessly.
TYRELL WARD | 6’5 G | NEW WORLD/DEMATHA ‘22
Once he grows into his body, Tyrell Ward is going to be a problem. Ward is a rangy wing who can rebound out of his area. His defensive potential is still untapped, but he’s nowhere near reaching his ceiling on that end of the court. Right now, Ward excels on the offensive end, especially in transition where he is able to consistently create his own shot or slash to the rim and finish through contact. One attribute I really like about Ward at this stage is his passing. He can work ball screens, has really good court vision and is constantly setting up his teammates for open looks.
