Francisco’s Finest: Summer Stock Raisers (Class of 2021)
Francisco’s Finest: Summer Stock Raisers (Class of 2021) LONG BEACH, Ca.—As the summer winds down and most kids are back in school, here are some of the standouts that exhibited their basketball prowess during the summer months. Before the Fall…
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Continue ReadingFrancisco’s Finest: Summer Stock Raisers (Class of 2021)
LONG BEACH, Ca.—As the summer winds down and most kids are back in school, here are some of the standouts that exhibited their basketball prowess during the summer months. Before the Fall evaluation period begins, here are a list of prospects that are committed or are garnering Division I interest, including supreme scorer Javonte Johnson (Chauncey Billups Elite). In addition, stock raisers including the multi-faceted point guard Ty Ty Washington (Firestorm Elite) opened the eyes of college coaches near and far.
Brenton Knapper (Colony)
2021, PG, 6-foot, 155 pounds
Knapper continues to open eyes with his skill and bounceJoel’s Take: One of the more exciting prospects in So-Cal is Knapper. Blinding speed and a pogo-stick vertical describe this up-and-coming point guard. He gets in the lane, hangs in the air, and can finish over length. His 3-point shot is vastly improved as is his decision-making in the open court. His ability to create plays in the paint for himself or for his teammates is uncanny.
Alvin Payero (Veritas Prep)
2021, PG, 5-foot-10, 165 pounds
Joel’s Take: “Speed” and “strength” are the first descriptions that come to mind when describing Payero. He takes the outlet pass, blitzes up court, and puts tremendous pressure on the defense. He has the strength to finish through contact and he can finish with either hand. His motor runs hot at both ends and he is a lock-down defender who gets underneath opposing point guards.
Christian Bento (Great Oak)
2021, C, 6-foot-10, 230 pounds
Joel’s Take: The ever-improving Bento has definitely taken his game to a new level. He has strong frame with broad shoulders and some evolving inside-out skills. He isn’t afraid to carve out space in the paint and he can finish over his left shoulder. In addition, he shows a nice soft touch to the elbow.
Ben Todd (El Camino Real)
2020, C, 6-foot-10, 220 pounds
Joel’s Take: The blue-collar Todd has slowly, but assuredly, become a solid “big” man. The skilled lefty has a nice touch from the elbow, can rebound in and out of his area, and can score over his right shoulder with consistency. He gives you an honest effort at both ends, but isn’t a quick leaper and as a result can struggle to score over length.
Austin Patterson (Sonora, CA)
2021, CG, 6-foot-3, 170 pounds
Joel’s Take: One of the purest shooters l saw this summer was Patterson. He has a quick release and is equally effective off the catch as he is coming off a pin-down screen. He pushes the ball well in transition and can deliver the appropriate pass in transition. He isn’t a blazer with the ball, but he gets to where he needs to go with his ability to change speeds.