I have been evaluating Small since he was a 15U player with Expressions New York, and he has consistently been dominant playing on premier independent circuits he’s played on whether it has been Hoop Group or Marquee Hoops when he was at the younger levels, he was more of a score first downhill guard who thrived by touching the paint and putting constant pressure on the rim. Now at the 17U level, he’s really expanded his game and shown the ability to facilitate and get teammates involved, always seeming to know where everyone is on the floor. He doesn’t need to score at a high volume for his value to be felt. Smalls is physically strong with great footwork on the interior, allowing him to play through contact and create angles around the basket. What stands out most is how well he anticipates the game in real time, often appearing one step ahead of everyone else on the floor.  He is a guard who I think should be on the radar of division two programs in the Atlantic and East region.

I can’t believe I hadn’t seen Smalls play in person before last weekend, but I walked away feeling like he was one of the best true point guards I saw. The 6-foot junior has exceptional quickness and speed, a really tight handle, and a good mid range game, so he’s a very difficult cover. Against BABC, he got into the paint at will and made great decisions for himself or his teammates consistently. Smalls needs to improve his outside shot, but he runs Valente Rocks’ offense beautifully and is an awesome college prospect. Not sure where he’ll end up, but scholarship schools should at least take a look.

Smalls is a talented guard with a dynamic offensive skill set. He consistently gets to the basket, using quickness and creativity to finish at the rim. A capable shooter from all areas of the floor, he keeps defenses honest. Smalls also excels as a playmaker, showing strong vision and the ability to facilitate for his teammates.

Smalls is a play-making point guard who has a great pulse on the game. He has a quick first step which allows him to frequently get to the paint. He had no issues finding his teammates for scoring chances of their own. Smalls made several trips to the foul line and has nice touch at the charity stripe. Smalls is a prospect who should be prioritized by scholarship programs.