Francisco’s Finest: Class of 2018 (Biggest Revelations)
Francisco’s Finest: Class of 2018 (Biggest Revelations)
Summary: While scouting approximately 30 years, I always look forward to what I like to call—the late bloomer. Mostly this pertains to the “bigs”, but as players mature physically as well as mentally (high IQ), their games will evolve as well and this group exhibited those traits this season.
Jackson Stormo (San Marcos)
2018, 6-foot-9, 250 pounds
Joel’s Take: The newest Pepperdine commit sure made a splash during his senior campaign. He received attention from a few Division II schools during the summer playing with the Rockfish club program. However, despite a major setback with the Santa Barbara fires, Stormo and his teammates rallied to bag a CIF Championship. The big-bodied 5-man has limited lift, but he has long arms, good feet, soft hands, and he has been well taught in the areas of fundamentals and post work.
Jaishon Forte (Rancho Verde)
2018, WF, 6-foot-5, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: Forte is a probable JUCO candidate but he has the physical tools to play college ball. He has a nice frame with good length and he impacts the game in the areas of rebounding, defense, and his 3-point shooting has improved. If he works on his ball skills and continues to smoothen out his jump shot, he should be getting college interest.
Tavian Percy (Pasadena)
2018, WF, 6-foot-5, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: This Florida transplant was one of the bigger revelations this season in Southern California. The wiry wing-type, who stood this summer playing for the Florida Vipers, brought yet another athletic body to the Pasadena line-up. In transition he can slash his way to the rim, often ending up with a thunderous dunk. In the half court set he can spot up in the corners and convert 3-point shots. His in-between game needs to improve, but he should be playing in college sooner rather than later.
Kaelen Allen (Westchester)
2018, PF, 6-foot-5, 245 pounds
Joel’s Take: The Barkley-esque power forward who was hiding out in the Inland Empire made his presence felt immediately when he arrived at Westchester. He has long arms, soft hands, and he has some sneaky bounce. His motor runs hot and cold, but he does have excellent feet, a soft touch, and the explosiveness to dunk over kids much taller than him.
Teddy Ochieng (Cantwell Sacred-Heart)
2018, PF, 6-foot-7, 215 pounds
Joel’s Take: Ochieng, who is headed to UTEP, is one of the better least-known prospects in So-Cal. The rangy 5/4 can knock in shots out to 15-feet, rebound in and out of his area, and his motor is solid. He needs to improve his feel for the game as well as his face-up skills (triple threat game), but he is a sneaky talent.