Is The Patrick School the Team to Beat in New Jersey?
The Patrick School is looking to return to the dynasty they were back in the mid-2000’s as St. Patrick’s. With names like Kyrie Irving and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist walking through St. Pat’s, they were able to build a program that was…
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Continue ReadingThe Patrick School is looking to return to the dynasty they were back in the mid-2000’s as St. Patrick’s. With names like Kyrie Irving and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist walking through St. Pat’s, they were able to build a program that was a winner year in and year out led by one of the best high school coaches in the country Kevin Boyle. The Patrick School won the Tournament of Champions in 2017 and they are favorites once again heading into the 2019-2020 seaosn.
From St. Pat’s and St. Anthony’s to Roselle Catholic. The Lions have won the TOC’s three times since 2013. They have built a dominant force in high school basketball in the state of New Jersey. Ranney was able to capture the title last season led by Bryan Antoine and Scottie Lewis. With both of them now at ranked Division I programs, they will be expected to take a step back. Roselle Catholic has the talent to challenge The Patrick School head-to-head but will it be too much in the end?
The Patrick School Replenished
New Jersey is known for producing next level talent. Irving, Karl Anthony-Towns, JR Smith, the list goes on and on. This season, Jonathan Kuminga might be better than all of them. Kuminga transferred from Our Savior New American to play at The Patrick School. He is already listed as the No. 1 player in the 2021 class but he could be the best overall player in the nation as a junior.
At 6’9, Kuminga is just scratching the surface on how good he can be. He is already a dominant force driving to the basket and handling the ball. Kuminga has worked hard on his jump shot and it has improved dramatically. This is a player that has it all and is already being offered from every college in the nation.
“Kuminga is the best player in the country,” one high-major Division I assistant said after Kuminga’s performance at Peach Jam. “I don’t think there’s any debate.”
Having two high school seasons left is a scary thought for a player who many believe could compete in the NBA right now. Kuminga did not transfer by himself though. His teammate at Our Savior New American, 6’9 forward Adama Sanogo, will also join The Patrick School this season.
Sanogo is viewed as one of the fastest rising recruits in the nation. He has many offers from Division I schools and they will grow overtime. Yes, Sanogo is also a junior. He is less of a finish product than Kuminga but Sanogo does many things well. He is an elite rebounder and shot blocker who can run the floor and always finishes around the rim. His post moves are strong and he is working on a mid-range game.
When it comes to this season’s TOC’s, The Patrick School is entering as the favorite. It will be interesting to see how the season plays out especially since another favorite is in their division in Roselle Catholic.