2019 Hidden Gems 1st Team
In the first of 4 pieces in this series, I highlight the top 5 overall performers this year from my 2019 Hidden Gems list. These guys have shown their worth and produced for their teams the entire 2017-18 season, resulting in individual accolades and team success. Following this story will be a 2nd team, 3rd team, and then a Stock Risers portion for players from the list.
Kamar Robertson (Cambridge)- There was some buzz around Robertson’s name following the 2017 summer circuit, but it did not compare to where he is now. He has burst onto the scene this winter, putting the entire state on notice. Robertson has helped to lead Cambridge to a 24-2 record, doing all a coach could ask for every game. He is a highly-skilled PG who sets the tone with his intensity and aggressiveness each time he is on the court. Robertson put up 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in his last game against North Atlanta; this type of performance has become normal for him. His play this season earned him Region POY and has put him on the radar of various MM’s and HM’s throughout the Southeast.
Jaxon Etter (Etowah)- Etter was a force in his region last year, but still wasn’t getting the recognition he deserved last season and summer. I put him on the list feeling that he was worthy of much more attention and would receive it this year, which he has. Etter and the Eagles have solidified themselves as a top 10 team, sitting at 23-2 and winning their region championship. Like Robertson, Etter was also recognized as Region POY, and for good reason. His value can’t be understated; he is such a tough player and just makes winning plays. He is capable of going for big scoring numbers, but has no problem with securing double-digit rebounds or assists either. Etowah will have a chance to make a playoff run behind Etter and numerous other pieces who are important to this team’s success.
Terrell Burden (Campbell)- Burden exemplifies what I had in mind when I first made this list after the travel season. In just one year, he has gone from an unknown JV player at McEachern to a 1st Team All-Region selection in one of Georgia’s toughest regions. He has kept his head down, continuing to work and trusting that the results would come. Burden comes with a heart over height mindset and it has paid off for him. He is averaging 17.1 PPG, 7.1 APG, 4.3 RPG, and 2.5 SPG for an 18-9 Campbell team that is on its way to the state playoffs. Burden is a fearless, dynamic PG who is going to receive many looks from college coaches this spring and summer. He is one of those success stories you just love to see.
Messiah Thompson (North Atlanta)- Thompson may have disappeared for a little bit while at Pebblebrook last year, but he has made sure to put himself back in the spotlight this year. North Atlanta has surprised some people this year and just made a huge statement by taking down Cambridge in the region championship on Saturday. Thompson is one of best passers in the state, sitting at 8.1 APG currently. He orchestrates their offense, provides vocal leadership, and brings an edge on defense also. To go with his assists, Thompson is averaging 16.2 PPG and 2.7 SPG as well. He earned 1st Team All-Region honors and is not done as the Warriors head to the state playoffs. Thompson’s excellent HS season should carry into the travel circuit.
James Glisson (Southwest Dekalb)- After only averaging 2.7 PPG and 3.2 RPG last year, Glisson’s junior campaign has been completely different. He has shown steady improvement since I first watched him in June, developing his body and game very well. His production for the Panthers has been consistent this season; his numbers may not be gaudy but you know what you’ll get from him on a nightly basis. Glisson is averaging 13.1 PPG, 7.9 RPG, and 1.3 BPG on 50% shooting. He utilizes mid-range face-ups well, rebounds on both ends, and will go over and through defenders at the rim for buckets. Expect a host of schools to jump in on his recruitment in the coming months.