Will Barton Elite Camp-Standout Wings
Yesterday, Will Barton hosted his annual elite camp that consisted of talent from all over the country, however the majority of the players were from the mid-Atlantic region. With no shortage of talent, the players took part in a morning session consisting of drills and stations, which were followed by a series of games. Each portion gave you a chance to dissect the strengths and weaknesses of the players. For this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the talented wings that attended and stood out.
Donta Scott | 6’6 | ’19 Imotep
If there was an MVP award given out for the camp, Scott had a very strong argument to win it. The 6-foot-6 wing was scoring at an alarming rate and in every way possible. Off the catch, off the dribble, from three, mid-range or dunking in traffic, it simply didn’t matter who was in front of him. Scott showed why schools such as Maryland, Connecticut, Georgetown and Florida are all after him aggressively.
RJ Blakney | 6’5 | ’19 St. Maria Goretti
If there was one thing that was confirmed this weekend after seeing Blakney play it is this: he is a high major prospect. Because of a few times losing his head during games, coaches have used that to shy away from him when the truth is, every kid gets frustrated. Blakney has supreme athleticism and scoring ability in transition. Defensively, when he is locked in, he can be a very hard match up to score on. He’s going to stuff the stat sheet with his versatility and energy on both ends. Blakney was playing against other high major prospects and not only holding his own, but looking like an even stronger prospect than most.
Jamal West | 6’5 | ’20 St. Frances
While West will be featured as a four at St. Frances, he’ll be expected to play on the wing at the next level. His development in that area has taken huge strides over the past year. His ball handling, while very much still a work in progress, is becoming tighter and allowing him to break his man down here and there. His jumpshot is still his biggest flaw, but once he is in the painted area more likely than not, West is going to come away with a bucket or a foul. His relentless motor makes him a factor on the glass both offensively and defensively.
Chereef Knox | 6’6 | ’19 Imotep
Knox only played in the game portion of camp, but he was sure to make his mark while doing so. The 6-foot-6 wing can be a pesky on-ball defender and anticipates in the passing lanes well when playing off the ball. Knox is an above average rebounder for his position and can push the tempo himself in transition. When filling the lanes without the ball, Knox can showcase his athleticism with finishes above the rim. He also shot the ball pretty well from three when left open.
Asa Shannon | 6’6 | ’19 Takoma Academy
Shannon had a solid showing throughout the day. The 6-foot-6 wing had plenty of athletic finishes in the open floor and was scoring at an efficient clip from all three levels. Defensively, he was active in the passing lanes, sparking transitions opportunities for his team. Where he was most effective was off the dribble in the halfcourt and getting into the paint.