Freshman Watch: Jahnathan Lamothe (2023)

<p>It's becoming a common theme, especially in the Baltimore area, to see talented freshmen burst onto the varsity scene and have a significant impact. Next year's incoming class will be no different, as we'll see a great number of freshmen play meaningful minutes for their respective varsity squad.</p> <p>St. Frances will come in as the top team in the area after sweeping both the MIAA and BCL while earning national praise. Their team will be comprised of a senior three-headed monster in <strong>Ace Baldwin</strong> (VCU commit), <strong>Jordan Toles</strong> and <strong>Jamal West</strong>. The Panthers will also depend on the production a junior class that should include a few key transfers.</p> <p>More than likely, there will only be one freshman on the varsity roster. His name is Jahnathan Lamothe. Lamothe is a 6-foot-2 guard who was highly sought after from schools in the area because of his three-point shooting ability.</p> <p>Lamothe played his middle school ball at Cardinal Sheehan and has put together a nice spring with Team Thrill 14U.</p> <p>"Individually I feel like I'm doing well," Lamothe told Prep Hoops. "I'm getting myself in better shape to get ready for high school ball and getting better with the ball off the dribble and off the catch."</p> <p>Lamothe's ability make three's consistently gives a specialty type of player they haven't had in recent years. Still, Lamothe understands playing at the varsity level and with a team as elite as St. Frances will take time. He does however, understand what's expected of him to earn playing time.</p> <p>"Defense," Lamothe said. "That what Coach [Nick] Myles told me that's what I'll have to do to get on the floor. I also have to make shots."</p> <p>Asking a freshman to play at the varsity level is tough in itself, but Lamothe will have an even bigger challenge. St. Frances will boast one of the toughest schedules in the country, playing against a handful of the top-ranked teams you can find.</p> <p>"I just want to win," Lamothe said as he spoke on his mindset going into the season. "That's the only thing that will make me satisfied."</p> <p>Understanding what role you play in a team is one of the hardest adjustments to make no matter what the age. Lamothe seems to understand what it takes to get into the rotation, now we'll wait and see if he can show it with his play.</p>