Intro 2024: James Brown
At Prep Hoops Illinois we are always looking ahead to the next group of top players. This year is a very unique season where we haven’t been able to see the best incoming freshman during a high school season. We…
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Continue ReadingAt Prep Hoops Illinois we are always looking ahead to the next group of top players. This year is a very unique season where we haven’t been able to see the best incoming freshman during a high school season. We have however got insight into many of the top 2024 prospects through camps and scrimmages during the fall and winter. In this series we dive into a look at the top incoming freshman on our radar at this point.
We spoke with St. Rita head basketball coach Roshawn Russell to discuss one of the stellar members of his freshman class. Today we examine their standout center in Intro 2024: James Brown!
How would you best describe his game at this stage?
At this stage James has excellent footwork and post moves. He runs and catches well for his size. Very coordinated. Finishes well around the basket and makes free throws! He can handle the ball and is a capable shooter. He hasn’t shown it much but definitely has the ability! At his age right now playing against varsity players I would say consistency has been the biggest challenge and an area for growth.
What is his current height and weight?
6’8” ½ 210lbs
Long term what is an area that you believe can be developed in his game that might not be as evident right now?
In coming years at the varsity level I believe we will see him get rebounds and go coast to coast. Also, as I alluded to already we will see his perimeter game more. He is more than capable of knocking down shots. He has range to 3 point so I believe over time everyone will see how versatile he really is. He is not just a back to the basket big.
What are the biggest traits he will bring to your program over the next several years?
Biggest traits he will bring is he is personable, responsible on and off the court, understands the classroom comes 1st, a great teammate, mature beyond his years, great communicator, leadership, will to win and work ethic. He wants to be great and win at a high level!
In a hypothetical world where there was a high school basketball season this year what would you have seen his role being?
He would be our starting 5. He would be one of the main options in our offense. He is very skilled and hard to stop especially when he can get the ball in his spots.
Is there a recent Illinois high school player that he reminds you of at a young age?
Recent Illinois player that James reminds me of at a young age is Jahlil Okafor however I believe his game will mirror more of an Anthony Davis type by the time he is an upperclassmen.
How does he complement fellow top big man prospect Morez Johnson?
They complement each other very well. First, it starts with their relationship. They genuinely want the best for one another and want to be viewed as one of the best frontcourts in the country. Both can step out and shoot and are willing passers. Both can play inside/out and opposing teams will have a tough time deciding what they want to give up. They both will open up a lot for each other!
Has there been any early college recruitment with him yet?
Offers: Western Illinois, Siena, Howard, Northern Illinois, Providence and DePaul
Interests: Louisville, Indiana, Iowa, Stanford, Xavier, Portland, Loyola, Drake, Toledo and Memphis.