2023 Under the Radar Lead Guards
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The 2023 class is loaded with talent and has failed to disappoint so far in their high school careers. With such a talented group, it is easy for prospects to be overlooked or slip through the cracks. This is especially…
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Continue ReadingThe 2023 class is loaded with talent and has failed to disappoint so far in their high school careers. With such a talented group, it is easy for prospects to be overlooked or slip through the cracks. This is especially true with point guards as the class is filled with backcourt talent. Here are the top 2023 point guards who are flying under the radar.
Jahmir Smith Jahmir Smith 6'0" | PG Centennial Highschool | 2023 GA , 5’11 PG Holy Spirit
Smith has been a standout for the Spartans over the last two seasons, but is still flying under the radar. The explosive 5’11 guard finishes above the rim with ease and has a good layup package. Smith is tough to contain off the bounce and is unafraid of drawing contact. He has a nice release on his jumper and can get hot from distance in a hurry. Smith is one of the most underrated players in South Jersey, which should change as he plays for the NJ Scholars this summer.
Maurice McKnight Maurice McKnight 5'10" | PG Hudson Catholic | 2023 State NJ , 5’9 PG Roselle Catholic
The Lions are loaded with backcourt talent, but McKnight will be able to carve a role out this season. The 5’9 floor general is a blur in the open floor and loves to push the pace in transition. McKnight has a tight handle and is a crafty finisher around the basket. He is capable of knocking down open jumpers from distance and is an underrated passer. McKnight’s speed is something that cannot be taught and he should take full advantage of it this season.
Lorenzo Perez Lorenzo Perez 5'10" | PG Perth Amboy | 2023 State NJ , 5’10 PG Morris Catholic
Perez has had a strong start to the AAU season with the NJ Beasts, which should roll into the summer and fall seasons. The 5’10 guard is not phased by on-ball pressure and is able to get to his spot on the floor. Perez is a good finisher around the basket and makes smart decisions with the ball in his hands. He slides his feet well on the defensive end and knows how to get deflections. Perez is a two-way floor general who could see his stock rise over the next couple of months.
Antwan Bridgett Antwan Bridgett 5'9" | PG Trenton | 2023 State NJ , 5’7 PG Trenton
Bridgett had a breakout sophomore season for the Tornadoes as he showed his ability to run an offense effectively. The 5’7 floor general plays with his head up and is always looking to get his teammates involved. Bridgett is a sniper from distance with a quick release and smooth shooting stroke. He plays with quick hands on the defensive hand and has a knack for getting steals. Bridgett may be undersized, but he lets his game do the talking.
Qiani Bowens Qiani Bowens 5'9" | PG Quality Academy Prep | 2023 State NJ , 5’9 PG Williamstown
Bowens was the spark plug for a Braves squad that needed a scoring punch with the loss of Keon Sabb. The 5’9 guard has a lightning quick first step, which he uses to blow by his defender. Bowens can also makes opponents pay for giving him space on the perimeter as he had 7 games with at least three made triples. He runs the offense effectively and is an underrated on-ball defender. Bowens’ scoring ability should not be diminished as he will get more opportunities to put up monster numbers as his career progresses.
Other Prospects to Watch:
Keyshawn Winchester Keyshawn Winchester 5'9" | PG Union Catholic | 2023 State NJ , 5’7 PG JP Stevens
Jayden Lopez Jayden Lopez 5'10" | PG Atlantic Tech | 2023 State NJ , 5’10 PG Atlantic Tech
Jonathan Nsenkyire Jonathan Nsenkyire 5'8" | PG Rutgers Prep | 2023 State NJ , 5’8 PG Rutgers Prep
Nyle Coleman Nyle Coleman 5'10" | PG Peddie | 2023 State NJ , 5’9 PG Peddie
Raja Coleman Raja Coleman 5'9" | PG Peddie | 2023 State NJ , 5’9 PG Peddie