Jalen Griffith Talks Season, Game, & March

Simeon has been the team to beat in 3A since early in the season.  As we head into the playoffs they are still that team.  They have a versatile frontcourt and three of the top guards in the city that make them go.  The catalyst who makes everything mesh is 2023 point guard Jalen Griffith Jalen Griffith 5'9" | PG Simeon | 2023 State IL .  The junior guard has stepped up in every big outing we have seen them in throughout the season.

Griffith has been a consistent force with his speed and athleticism on both ends of the floor.  He does a great job at pushing the pace in transition, but can also get dribble penetration in the half court with his first step.  When in the lane he knows how to get the ball up on the rim with floaters, scoop shots, and nifty footwork.  Solid pull up shooter that can stop and pop. 

One of the better distributors in the Illinois junior class.  Sees the floor and makes others around him better elevating their play because he puts them in positions to succeed whether it is finding Avyion Morris Avyion Morris 5'9" | PG Simeon | 2022 State IL for a three, hitting Jaylen Drane Jaylen Drane 6'2" | PG Simeon | 2022 State IL on the break, or dishing to the Rubin twins for lobs or dump offs.  Defensively Griffith is a pesky on ball defender that isn’t afraid of taller guards as he puts pressure on the ball and has active hands getting a couple steals a game.

We caught up with Griffith to get his thoughts on the season heading into the state tournament to talk about his partnership in the backcourt with seniors Drane and Morris.

“The three guard line up is part of the adjustment we talk about.  Us being the head of the team and the way we build off one another is crazy.”

How has his game grown as a junior?

“My scoring and being way more comfortable with the ball in my hands.”

With the tournament about to get underway he spoke with us about what the Wolverines have to do to make it a memorable one in Champaign.

“Believe in the coaches and each other.  Believe in ourselves.  Believe that we can win state.”

Griffith spoke in depth about what the college that lands him will be getting.

“I know I bring leadership.  A winning mindset and player.  Bringing the or giving the team another coach on the floor and just getting better.  Scoring as well and getting my teammates involved.”

This summer he will be running with Team Illinois International on the Prep Hoops Circuit.  What is he looking forward to about the opportunity?

“To get in the big tournaments and let them know we can win games and beat high rated teams without a brand connected to our name.”