Week One: Which new names shined?

The hoop scene is in full swing, and after one week of watching games, it's clear that many players have used their time wisely to prepare for the high school basketball season. I had the opportunity to attend a few tournaments and jamboree games, and here are several players who stood out and are sure to be impact players for their respective programs. From Class B to 5A, Louisiana is filled with skilled basketball players who bring a level of intensity and determination that's hard to come by. Whether in small gyms or large arenas, these players are definitely ones to watch.    [player_tooltip player_id='2896917' first='JaKaleb' last='Modest'] is probably the best unknown player in the state right now. I watched three games, and in every single game, he was lights out. He can surely make the case for being the best shooter in the state based on his stats alone. In his first six games, Modest is averaging 30 points per game, with a 39-point game already under his belt. He is a lean guard with a killer instinct, roaming the floor with ease, as if he owns it. He can punish you from beyond the three-point line if he gets a clear view of the rim. His shot is pure, and he can shoot from anywhere on the court with accuracy. Even during warm-ups, the kid can hit shots from the school logo distance with ease. Bottom line: the kid is a shooter. However, there is more to his game than meets the eye. Consider this an introduction, as his name and numbers will speak volumes about his abilities as he establishes himself as a notable player and serious recruit in Louisiana. Simsboro High School will definitely be dangerous as they prepare to make a deep run in the Class C Category.     Davey Mays is the point guard for Wossman High School. He is a true point guard and the orchestrator of an athletic Wossman unit. As a surgical leader, he approaches the game with a strategic mindset, much like a boxer. Early in the game, he dances and picks his spots, testing the defense and putting pressure on his defender to reveal his habits. He fakes passes to check defensive rotations and gets into the lane to see where the shot blocker likes to operate. Throughout this process, he maintains a smooth pace to the game and gets his teammates involved. By the time the second half arrives, you can see the game plan start to unfold. He then inserts his scoring ability, which consists of a trusty mid-range shot and a solid downhill package. Mays is quick, smart, strong, and tough, making it difficult to force him into a mistake. On defense, he matches everything he does offensively, showcasing his well-rounded skills. He led Wossman to big wins over Carroll in their jamboree and Huntington in their season opener. As a traditional point guard, he is poised to be a big-time difference-maker this season for the defending state champions.     [player_tooltip player_id='1679407' first='Jaiden' last='Franklin'] is a long, athletic wing player with strong guard skills and an elite basketball IQ. What immediately stands out when watching him play is his size - his build is reminiscent of a Division I wide receiver. He appears to be close to 6'4" and has the physical presence of a college sophomore. Franklin boasts a complete game, showcasing the ability to score from all three levels: at the rim, in the mid-range, and from beyond the arc. He can also be trusted to handle the ball effectively in both half-court sets and open-court situations, making him a versatile threat on offense. Franklin's impressive play has already led his team to notable victories over Simsboro (14 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals) and Gibsland (12 points, 7 rebounds, 4 steals) in the first week of action. As a member of a stacked Minden team, Franklin's skills fit seamlessly into their style of play. He is a quick decision-maker who doesn't waste dribbles trying to create for himself, instead prioritizing team-first basketball. However, he also has the ability to electrify the crowd with dunks in one-on-one situations. As his game continues to improve, Franklin is poised to be a stock riser this season, likely drawing attention from college scouts and coaches.     After watching Jacob Richardson for several games, it's time to acknowledge his growth and consistency on a team full of elite guards. Although Captain Shreve may be the smallest 5A team in the state, they are undoubtedly one of the toughest. Jacob Richardson is an elite defender, much like the rest of the players on his team. Game in and game out, he is a player who makes big plays. While he can shoot the mid range well, his game is not limited to that as his only weapon. His game is a bit more traditional, as he will step in and shoot the mid-range with precision. He is not a flashy player, but his game is eye-catching because of his speed and ability to stop on a dime. He flies all over the court on defense, and can sit down on any team's best player if asked. When watching him guard a nationally ranked player, he looked ready to accept the challenge. Richardson stepped into the season with a 30-point night against Southwood in a big-time win. He is an unselfish gamer, and Shreve is going to be tough this year due to his contributions on this deep team of defensive specialists who can shoot the lights out. From the three-point line to the lane, Richardson can get buckets, showcasing his versatility and scoring ability.     I have watched Brayden Martin over the summer in AAU and at the start of the high school season, and his game continues to develop and improve in many ways. His shot is getting better, and as the leader of this young Quitman team, he can be trusted to make good decisions on the floor. He is a constant competitor on both ends of the court. His maturity and athleticism are qualities that will continue to grow, as the sophomore season often presents challenges for many players. Brayden is a strong-willed player who appears ready to embrace those challenges. When his outside shot isn't falling, he has the basketball IQ to drive to the lane and get a quick bucket to get himself going. There's much more to come from Brayden, and I expect him to keep developing and leading the Quitman team.    Week two of the hoop season is packed with Thanksgiving Classic tournaments, showcasing some of the top teams and talent in North Louisiana. Up next is the Captain Shreve Classic, where some of the best teams from Southern Louisiana will face off against top competition from the north. Stay tuned for a breakdown of the standout players and matchups in the upcoming tournament.

The hoop scene is in full swing, and after one week of watching games, it's clear that many players have used their time wisely to prepare for the high school basketball season. I had the opportunity to attend a few tournaments and jamboree games, and here are several players who stood out and are sure to be impact players for their respective programs. From Class B to 5A, Louisiana is filled with skilled basketball players who bring a level of intensity and determination that's hard to come by. Whether in small gyms or large arenas, these players are definitely ones to watch.