The Classic at Damien: Francisco’s Finest
The Classic at Damien: Francisco’s Finest
LA VERNE, CA—The Classic at Damien had a bevy of hype due to the outstanding depth that was put together by it’s staff—most notably Frank Burlison. There were a number of stellar performances—most notably Amound Anderson’s 34-point outburst—and shocking results—St. Bernard bouncing tournament host Damien in the night cap.
Francisco’s Finest (Day 1)
Wayne Arnold (Dominguez)
2018, SG, 6-foot-4, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: The Cal State Fullerton signee is one of the most improved players in So-Cal. He has deep range on his jump shot, a potent two-dribble pull-up, and is an explosive athlete. Not too mention he isn’t afraid to take the “big” shot as he nailed the game winner against Leuzinger. To take his game to a new a level, he needs to improve his ability to to get to the rim and either finish through contact or improve his efficiency of getting to the rim.
Elijah Harkless (Etiwanda)
2018, 6-foot-3, 185 pounds
Joel’s Take: Harkless is an explosive athlete who possesses ball skills and vision. He can snatch rebounds in traffic, lead the break, and either advance the ball or slash his way to the rim. In the half court set he can hit mid-range shots and he finishes above the rim at a impressive rate. However, the best aspect of his game may be his defensive prowess.
Nick Bowden Jr. (St. Bernard)
2020, CG, 5-foot-11, 155 pounds
Joel’s Take: This kid has winner written all over him. He is the owner of one of the quickest releases in So-Cal and he has deep range on his shot. His ability to beat defenders off the dribble is impressive and he has vision as well.
Jake Kyman (Santa Margarita)
2019, WF, 6-foot-7, 215 pounds
Joel’s Take: Kyman put together one of the more efficient performances this season. His jump shot was on the mark from mid-range and beyond the 3-point line. He always plays on balance and his passing acumen is high-level.
Jarod Lucas (Los Altos)
2019, CG, 6-foot-3, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: When describing Lucas the term motor comes immediately to mind. He pushes the ball hard in transition and will either deliver the timely assist or his ability to knock in jump shots from all over the floor. He needs to improve his ability to break down defenders off the dribble and finish in the lane, but overall his progress has been good.
Amound Anderson (Leuzinger)
2020, PG, 6-foot-2, 160 pound
Joel’s Take: One of the better national secrets belongs to Anderson. The slick lefty changes speeds, has a sweet crossover, and his pull-up game is evolving. His long arms allows him to get numerous steals and his IQ and savvy are high-level. He can knock in deep jump shots and finish with dexterity in the interior. He needs to improve his right hand while attacking and finishing but he’s a talent.
Jarred Hyder (Cajon)
2019, CG, 6-foot-2, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: Hyder was the biggest surprise of the day. He’s a combo-guard who gets great lift on his shot, especially in the mid-range area. His frame is ideal for the next level as he has the necessary length and athleticism to garner interest from multiple colleges. He needs to improve his facilitating skills (advancing the ball/pick and roll/etc.) but the tools are there.