2023 Kenny Smith Lead Guard Workout Notes (Pt. 1)

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2023 Kenny Smith Lead Guard Workout took place on August 26th at McBride High School in Long Beach. This invitation-only gathering brought together some of the nation's most promising high school players, aiming to refine their skills under the guidance of renowned point guard and NBA Champion Kenny Smith. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["986960"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='986960' first='Nick' last='Jefferson'] brings a multifaceted skill set to the court that greatly benefits his team's offense. A proficient 3-point shooter, Jefferson's ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc provides valuable floor spacing, forcing defenders to extend their coverage. Moreover, his aggressive approach in attacking the basket demonstrates his versatility as a scorer. He's not only a threat from long range but also possesses the athleticism to drive past defenders and finish around the rim. Jefferson's aptitude for creating opportunities for his teammates further adds to his value on the court, as he demonstrates excellent vision and makes crisp passes to open teammates, contributing to the fluidity of the offense.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_1_player":["1630618"],"_player_evaluations_1_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_1_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_1_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"This weekend [player_tooltip player_id='1630618' first='Nik' last='Khamenia'] showcased the well-rounded offensive game that makes him such valuable asset. His ability to shoot both from mid-range and beyond the arc adds versatility to his scoring repertoire, allowing him to stretch defenses and create open shot opportunities. Khamenia's  finishing touch around the basket with either hand further demonstrates his scoring prowess, making him a threat from multiple angles. Beyond scoring, his adept passing skills make him a valuable playmaker, capable of creating scoring opportunities for his teammates.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eKhamenia's physical attributes also contribute to his effectiveness on both ends of the floor. His size enables him to secure rebounds effectively, and his skill in pushing the ball up the court after a rebound adds to his team's transition game. Additionally, his off-ball movement is a significant asset to his team's offensive flow. Khamenia's ability to read the defense and make smart cuts enhances his positioning for open shots, showcasing his understanding of spacing and his overall basketball IQ.","_player_evaluations_1_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_2_player":["1630623"],"_player_evaluations_2_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_2_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_2_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"His creative finishing ability allows him to navigate through defenders and score effectively around the rim. Hightower's adept touch with both hands near the basket further enhances his scoring versatility as he is able to finish over or around bigger defenders. Additionally, his capability as a 3-point shooter provides valuable floor spacing for his team, forcing defenses to respect his outside shot. Coupled with his aggressive approach in attacking the basket, Hightower remains a constant offensive presence, putting pressure on defenders and consistently seeking scoring opportunities.","_player_evaluations_2_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_3_player":["1956527"],"_player_evaluations_3_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_3_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_3_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='1956527' first='Zander' last='Ovies'] stands out as a strong asset on the court, possessing excellent ball-handling skills and showcasing his prowess as a tenacious on-ball defender. His competitive nature is evident in his defensive efforts, and he doesn't shy away from asserting himself on both ends of the floor. Additionally, Ovies has a knack for setting up his teammates with well-timed passes, while his aggressive approach to attacking the basket adds another layer to his offensive game.","_player_evaluations_3_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations_4_player":["1956616"],"_player_evaluations_4_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_4_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_4_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='1956616' first='Jaden' last='Bailes'] exhibits remarkable quickness and an exceptional first step, which allows him to get to his spots on the court. His ability to confidently finish at the rim with either hand underscores his versatility as a scorer, while his adeptness in moving without the ball showcases his basketball intelligence. Bailes' speed and agility make him a dynamic threat in transition and half-court sets alike, adding a significant dimension to his team's offensive strategies.","_player_evaluations_4_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":5,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-64ecfbdcbcd9e"} /-->