Grayson New Year’s Classic: Standout Forwards
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Jacob Wilkins GA #3 SF #1 HEIGHT 6'9" POS SF CLASS 2025 View Profile Jacob Wilkins Twitter State: Georgia School: Grayson Club: Georgia Stars Wilkins came off the bench with Parkview down 8-0 and immediately got to work, hitting a…
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Continue ReadingWilkins came off the bench with Parkview down 8-0 and immediately got to work, hitting a catch-and-shoot corner three before catching an alley-oop and getting a dunk on the break. Wilkins sank three threes and finished with 13 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal and 1 block. Even on a slight off night as far as production goes, you could see why Wilkins is skyrocketing up recruiting boards. The pairing of his length and athleticism is eye-popping, but it’s his perimeter skill set that really makes him a High Major prospect. Jacob has a quick release and is a threat to put the ball on the floor. As he fills out his frame, expect Wilkins to get better and better and be in the discussion as the best player in Georgia’s 2025 class if he isn’t already.
In what was a low scoring game, Christian packed a punch with his physical inside-out play. Deston does damage in the paint, able to score on post ups and putbacks, but he’s very comfortable on the wing and likes the one-dribble pull-up. He also showed three-point range, hitting a shot from beyond the arc. Christian tallied 13 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal and 1 block in a 51-39 win against Central Gwinnett.
When you talk about a guy that knows his role, Sha’Yah Goba comes to mind. It was my first time watching him but I really liked what I saw – a tough-nosed defensive stopper willing to do the dirty work. Goba face guarded Chasz Holmes Chasz Holmes 5’11” | PG Parkview | 2024 State GA and tries to completely take away opposing teams’ guards. He is a hustler that defends multiple spots. Goba had a nice baseline slam and hit a three, part of his 9 points and 4 rebounds. If Sha’Yah can master the corner three, he profiles as a 3&D wing.
Highlights
In the fourth quarter the Mustangs tried to establish Williams inside. Keith is a mountain of a man, difficult to move once he secures prime real estate on the block. Over the course of his career, he has shown quality footwork and a soft touch inside. While he doesn’t get a ton of lift off the ground, he’s an effective below the rim worker that is a constant double-double threat. He had 12 points and 8 rebounds in the loss to Parkview.
The Georgia State-signee produced 15 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 4 blocks in a 56-54 win over McDonough. Manyiel banked in a key three to end the third quarter to cut the deficit to 48-47. DK scored on a lob pass, a hook shot, a dunk, a mid-range jumper and a post move, showcasing his ability to score from multiple levels. He will need to continue to add weight, but Manyiel’s unique shooting touch for a 7-footer and continued development each year bodes well.
Chol had 14 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 1 block. The Mississippi State-signee played big inside and even showed off some ball handling skills, eurostepping his way to a dunk in traffic. Gai did try to dribble the ball up the floor multiple times and got in trouble in spurts, but it was a positive sign to see his confidence and growth in that area.
Amir was effective when he got post touches inside with 10 points. He does a good job of using his body, squaring his shoulders when powering up through the defense. The lefty can hit the mid-range jumper and was able to put the ball on the floor from the high post to get to the basket.
Richards came to life in the second half, scoring all 14 of his points to go with his 6 rebounds, 2 assists and 1 steal. Cannon rebounded like a mad man in the fourth quarter, swooping in to earn second chance points and drawing fouls while doing so. The springy forward went 6-7 from the line, his only miss coming on purpose. I really like what Richards brings from the high post. He’s a threat to turn and shoot or can make plays with his athleticism. His leaping ability and length make him a quality defender.