Francisco’s Finest: Ryse Williams Pac Shores: Day 3 Awards
Francisco’s Finest: Ryse Williams Pac Shores: Day 3 Awards
REDONDO BEACH, CA—It was quarterfinal day at Redondo Union High School and the action on the hardwood floors was scintillating to say the least. It began with an electrifying performance from nationally acclaimed junior Ziaire Williams—who dropped in 36-points in leading his team to an upset victory over Santa Margarita. While the night-cap ended with Washington Prep going on a 43-to-3 run in dismantling the Lynwood Knights 78-46.
MVP
Ziaire Williams (Sherman Oaks/Notre Dame)
2020, WF, 6-foot-8, 195 pounds
Williams has a point guard feel for the gameJoel’s Take: Williams performance was reminiscent of a So-Cal legend awhile back in the name of Paul Pierce. In 1995 at Compton College during the CIFSS playoffs, Paul Pierce put on a stellar performance against powerhouse Dominguez. Like Pierce, the up-and-coming Williams converted jump shot after jump shot as well as a couple of nifty off the bounce moves that left USC-bound Max Agbonkpolo on his heels. Williams will need to get stronger to play through contact more efficiently, but the talent is evident.
Production Personified
Ethan Anderson (Fairfax)
2019, SG, 6-foot-1, 200 pounds
Joel’s Take: The UNLV-bound combo-guard is one of the more consistent performers on the So-Cal scene. He uses his burly frame to power his way to the rim and he has the strength to finish through contact. He knocked in a couple of clutch jump shots as well as he put a stamp on this Lion squad on who is the MVP.
Shooter Deluxe
Julian Rishwain (Sherman Oaks/Notre Dame)
2019, SG, 6-foot-5, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Boston College ventured into So-Cal and snagged another prospect out of the hands of the Pac-12. Jared Dudley and Craig Smith may ring a bell as they put their stamp on the ACC while leading BC to a number of impressive wins. Now Rishwain looks to keep that tradition going and with his length, ball skills, and high-level shooting touch, the physical tools are evident.
Most Improved
Shengzhi Li (Santa Margariata)
2019, C, 6-foot-10, 255 pounds
Joel’s Take: Li, who has signed with BYU, has improved exponentially since the end of last year. The physically imposing 5-man has improved his footwork (scored over both shoulders) and fundamentals in the paint and he plays with a nasty streak.
On the Rise
Max Agbonkpolo (Santa Margarita)
2019, WF, 6-foot-9, 195 pounds
Joel’s Take: Agbonkpolo continues to improve his offensive skill set as exhibited in the his game against Notre Dame. His shot looks tighter and he is getting on balance while releasing his pull-up jump shot. His decision making (holds on the ball too long) needs to improve as does his man-to-man defense (bend knees/get low). USC 20-points
Clutch Performance
Nick Schrader (Bishop Montgomery)
2019, WF, 6-foot-5, 195 pounds
Joel’s Take: The most moxie-filled performance of the night belonged to Schrader. His 22-point performance was efficient and game-changing. On a night where Will Crawford and Josh Vasquez struggled from the field and Gianni Hunt was nursing an injury, Schrader “did work” as we say in the scounting business. Face-up drives, up-and-under moves, and relentless work on the boards are just a portion of what he did for his team.