Mid-January All-State Sleepers

The basketball season in New Jersey is kicking into high gear with teams across the state getting ready for huge tests. Prospects around the state are playing at a high level with some having the potential to land on an All-State team. Here are the All-State sleeper contenders to watch for in Mid-January.

[player_tooltip player_id="1033441" first="Carlos" last="Lopez"], 6’2 PG Egg Harbor 2022

Lopez has been playing on another level this season and should be a lock to make an All-State team. The 6’2 lefty is a three-level scorer who has a smooth shooting stroke and uses his handle to break his defender off the bounce. Lopez is not rattled by on-ball pressure and knows how to get his teammates involved in the half court. He is a good rebounder for a guard and makes plays on the defensive end. Lopez is the engine that drives Egg Harbor’s offense as the Eagles figure to make noise in the Group 4 tournament.

[player_tooltip player_id="1013044" first="Adam" last="Silas"], 6’2 CG St. Thomas Aquinas 2022

Silas has been huge for the Trojans this season and should continue to make plays for them as the 2022 season rolls on. The 6’2 guard has a good handle, which he uses effectively to get into the lane to make plays. Silas is more than just a slasher as he also has a nice release on his jumper and can knock down jumpers in bunches. He runs the offense smoothly and plays with quick hands on the defensive end. Silas is a two-way floor general prospect who has the potential to make an All-State team this year.

[player_tooltip player_id="1050395" first="Deuce" last="Jones"], 6’3 PG Trenton Catholic 2024

Jones is an electric guard prospect who has the potential to land on an All-State team if the Iron Mikes can continue to win games. The 6’3 guard plays with confidence as he is unafraid to pull up from distance in transition and has a good shooting stroke. Jones has a tight handle, which he uses to blow by his defender and finish in a number of ways around the rim. He is an underrated passer and plays with good instincts on the defensive end. Jones is a talented lead guard prospect who is a playmaker on both ends of the floor.

[player_tooltip player_id="1039493" first="Elijah" last="Lewis"], 6’4 CG Watchung Hills 2022

Lewis burst onto the scene during his junior campaign and has continued to shine in his senior season. The 6’4 guard is at his best attacking the basket as he finishes strong above the rim and does not mind drawing contact. Lewis can also score in the mid-range and is capable of knocking down open jumpers from behind the arc. He skies for rebounds on both ends of the floor and has the athleticism to defend multiple positions on the floor. Lewis has been a force for Watchung Hills and should continue to put up big numbers as the 2022 season moves forward.

[player_tooltip player_id="931027" first="Alex" last="Bauman"], 6’4 SF Red Bank Catholic 2022

Bauman has been the main guy for the Caseys this season due to his versatile skillset. The 6’4 dual-sport athlete has a strong frame, which he uses to finish through contact around the basket. Bauman has a good handle and runs the offense effectively with his poise and smart passes. He is tough to box out on both ends of the floor and can defend multiple positions on the floor. Bauman’s collegiate future will be on the gridiron, but his ability to affect the game in multiple ways on the hardwood is something that could land him on an All-State team.