Francisco’s Finest: Take Flight (Day 1 Standouts)
Francisco’s Finest: Take Flight (Day 1 Standouts) REDONDO BEACH, CA—The Take Flight Challenge is always a must-see event on the West Coast, due to amount of talent that is right before your eyes at one sitting. The first game scouts…
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Continue ReadingFrancisco’s Finest: Take Flight (Day 1 Standouts)
REDONDO BEACH, CA—The Take Flight Challenge is always a must-see event on the West Coast, due to amount of talent that is right before your eyes at one sitting. The first game scouts got to see the intriguing skill set of one of the better unsigned senior “bigs” in 6-foot-10 Christian Oliver (Maranatha). While in the nightcap the Oregon State-bound Isaiah Johnson rattled the rim as he led his team to a hard fought victory over Mayfair, despite an epic 44-point performance by Josh Christopher.
Josh Christopher (Mayfair)
2020, SG, 6-foot-5, 215 pounds
Joel’s Take: Christopher is a physical specimen who is downright unstoppble while in transition. The reasons why? Strength and explosion. He is arguably one of the best finishers in the country because of these two attributes. He deliver the nifty assist as well, but this kid is a scorer. His pull-up game is tight and he has a knack of drawing fouls while shooting deep jump shots. His emotions can get the best of him at times, but he always brings it.
Peyton Watson (Long Beach Poly)
2021, SG, 6-foot-7, 175 pounds
Joel’s Take: Watson didn’t have an efficient shooting night, but he played hard, especially at the defensive end. In past games he showed a tendency to get down when things didn’t go his way, but that was not the case at this event. His defense, particulary chase down blocks, was impressive and his feel for the game is noted. When his jump shot is on he is tough to stop because he creates so well off the dribble.
Shemar Morrow (Phoenix/Shadow Mtn.)
2020, WF, 6-foot-4, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: Morrow has had a reputation since middle school. The slick lefty is a solid player who affects the game with his ability to score. His jump shot is decent, but it’s his ability to finish in transition and off the dribble that is potent. He needs to improve his off hand—both finishing and attacking— to take his game to another level.
Isaiah Johnson (Bishop Montgomery)
2020, PF, 6-foot-7, 215 pounds
Johnson is an ultra-bouncy 4-man who has a nose for the ball.Joel’s Take: The ultra-bouncy is an intriguing prospect for the next level. The Oregon State-bound 4-man is very explosive around the rim and he plays with a hot motor at both ends of the floor. He has a knack for rebounding and he can guard multiple positions. His jump shot needs to improve as does his triple threat game, but this glue type of player should be able to contribute due to his assertiveness.
Xan Wesley (Redondo Union)
2020, SG, 6-foot-1, 180 pounds
Joel’s Take: Wesley doesn’t have the ideal frame and he isn’t overly quick and explosive, but he’s a solid basketball player who plays with no fear. He can shoot the deep 3 consistently and he plays with an assertive mindset. Due to his good hands and high IQ he can also make plays at the defensive end.