WV PREP BOYS’ HOOPS HIDDEN GEMS 2025
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Once again, we are here to identify the hidden gems of WV. These incoming juniors likely had a big impact on last season either starting or making big contributions off the bench. The 2025 class is so large and deep…
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Continue ReadingOnce again, we are here to identify the hidden gems of WV. These incoming juniors likely had a big impact on last season either starting or making big contributions off the bench. The 2025 class is so large and deep in talent and size we could have this hidden gem list go on forever.
NATHAN RODRIGUEZ
NATHAN RODRIGUEZ
Nate Rodriguez Nate Rodriguez 6’0″ | PG Parkersburg | 2025 State WV is as tough as they come. The strong built, nose for the bucket point guard is never afraid to draw contact in the process of creating a scoring opportunity for himself or a teammate. Rodriguez plays in the 4A division in WV however Parkersburg High School isn’t exactly well known for hoops, so Rodriguez has somewhat toiled in obscurity until this AAU season. We got to watch him perform first this year at Pitt Jam Fest while playing for Nash AAU in the 17U Division. Rodriguez wheeled and dealed versus some high-pressure defenses and leading his team to a couple wins. His defense was notable as well as he has the feet to stay in front of quicker guards and the strength and sturdiness to not get outmuscled by bigger guards.
Gavin Parker Watts Gavin Parker Watts 6’3″ | SG Tolsia | 2025 State WV is a big guard at a small school. However, it hasn’t stopped him from putting his basketball career in the fast lane. While somewhat unknown in the mountain state, Watts has been in a few events to get some scouts attention and get his name out there in recruiting circles. Watts is a very active and athletic guard who tries to pick up the slack wherever needed. He rebounds like a forward and does his best to create scoring opportunities for teammates. One of WV’s top scorers at just over 20/ppg last year, Watts will look to expand his game in the coming school season while maintaining his scoring average. Most impressive metric with Watts is he shoots high percentages from the field including 46% from 3. His size and efficiency should start turning heads soon.
Highlights
Navi Hewitt Navi Hewitt 6’3″ | SG Parkersburg South | 2025 State WV is a super-fast and athletic guard/wing who will soon be on the radar for many coaches in his region. The long rangy 6’3″ guard while not known for being a shooter does in fact more than make up for it on defense, on fast break rim rocking finishes, as well as rebounding well for his position. He possesses all the physical attributes that college coaches look for as well as the intangibles of being coachable and always playing full speed. Transferring from a small local Christian school to one of WV’s largest enrollment high schools will be a huge change he’s already proved he can play on the 4A level many times out in the AAU season. Quick, explosive and must-see TV will be what you hear about him during this coming school season.
Ben Putnam Ben Putnam 6’5″ | PF Lewis County | 2025 State WV came on the hoops scene last year during his sophomore year at Lewis County High School while posting 14/ppg and 7/reb. Impressive stats for a sophomore on any level. A multi skilled player who has scoring abilities at all three levels, Putnam seems to be the most intriguing as power forward type player that can create match up problems for opponents. Putnam posted steady double digit numbers in Big Shots events throughout the summer which garnered him much deserved attention and accolades. Putnam will likely lead the talented Lewis County squad statistically in several categories this upcoming season and have a legitimate shot at the state tournament.