Few guards at the event were as dynamic offensively as Rafriel Guthrie Jr. The explosive 2027 guard showcased an advanced offensive package while also making a major impact defensively throughout the weekend.

Guthrie’s quickness immediately jumps out. He consistently got downhill off the dribble using shifty footwork, hesitation moves, and tight crossovers to create separation. Once he got into the paint, he showed excellent body control and touch finishing around defenders.

What separates Guthrie from many guards his age is his ability to score at all three levels while also creating for teammates. He knocked down pull-up jumpers, created space for step-backs, and made smart reads when defenses collapsed.

Defensively, Guthrie competed with the same intensity he brought offensively. He pressured opposing guards full court, jumped passing lanes, and routinely disrupted offenses with his quick hands and instincts. His two-way impact made him one of the more complete guards in attendance.

Rafriel finished as the second-leading scorer in the 17U division at 19.3 PPG. Dynamic point guard with great speed and the ability to create separation off the dribble. Very shifty with the handle and consistently broke defenders down while still playing under control. Did a good job finding the open man and keeping teammates involved. What stood out most was his toughness and competitiveness throughout the weekend. The jump shot is still developing consistency, but the upside is there. Projects as a mid-major prospect with the potential to continue rising. Definitely a guard to keep an eye on moving forward.

Though small and young, he clearly knows how to impact the game. Guthrie runs a team with IQ, assertiveness, and unselfishness. He scores the ball from all levels and sets up others at a quality rate. Pesky defender at the point of attack. Next in his development process is working on getting stronger, as it would make him a more imposing player on both ends of the floor. 

-Came away impressed with Guthrie as a high-level defender that used his long arms and active hands to create problems for the opposition all day. Good vision in the halfcourt, waits that extra half beat for plays to develop and steps into his passes. Hit outside shots in 3 on 3 and knocked down a looooong catch and shoot three from just inside the volleyball line without changing his shooting motion. With + length, a quick first step, and good instincts on both ends of the ball– I expect Guthrie to build on this positive momentum into a sophomore season that will surprise some people.