Bo Barber is a highly athletic player for the RSE Basketball 17U team that has an active play style that just pops whenever he is on the court. He effortlessly soars over defenders to complete layups and dunks while quickly makes his way downhill, making his finishing almost automatic. Barber’s height also allows him to shoot from the perimeter with precision. When defenders close in on him near the basket, he demonstrates excellent reading skills, passing the ball to his teammates on the perimeter. Defensively, Barber utilizes his athleticism to block shots around the basket. Bo Barber was easily the most impressive 17U player I was able to evaluate the whole South Finals.

One thing’s for sure—Bo can HOOP! He makes the game look effortless and stays in complete control whenever he’s on the court. Barber’s versatile skill set lets him score from anywhere, and his strong frame helps him battle inside while still having the explosiveness to finish at the rim. At the South Finals, Bo proved he’s the top forward prospect, and it’s safe to say his opponents would agree.

Barber also competed in Ohio for i4 UA Rise. The junior capped the weekend with a big-time outing against Ohio Champion. He provided 16 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Barber shot 50% from the floor and was able to get both his mid-range and 3-point shots working at a high level. Bo can play at any speed by providing an understanding of pace and spacing as both a ball handler and a shooter. At 6’7″, his skillset and ability to handle the ball provides an added element for his squad. Barber plays the game the right way and is always reading help side defenders at a high level when he puts the ball on the floor.

Barber was one of the most improved players in Oklahoma during his junior season. He’s looking to carry that momentum forward this spring and summer. AAU play should be an interesting mix between production and development for the potential wing. With Crossings this past winter, he was great at playing his role. Hit spot up threes, one-two dribbles into mid-range, then run his tail off in transition, crashing the glass, or cutting off the ball. He has the potential to do more as a handler, so it will be fascinating to see him balance his development with his already successful traits

Barber is one of the most productive players in the state for one of the best teams. He’s averaging 18.3 points and 7.2 rebounds. He does it by keeping things simple. He’s a fantastic catch and shoot option who has had multiple games where he’s caught fire from deep. Then when opponents fly out to close out on him, it’s showtime with the dunks. While he can hit in the mid-range, he doesn’t try to get fancy with dribble combos or complicated moves. He knows who he is and he is thriving.

Add in the rebounding and shot blocking, Barber has turned into one of the more complete players in Oklahoma. And it’s not because he’s focused on being a “big guard”. It’s because he’s been a basketball player. His versatility and high motor playing style will make him very appealing to college coaches.

Barber had a big-time impact on the Crossings Christian comeback victory over Tuttle. Barber continues to be an x-factor for his club because of his ability to rebound and provide length defensively. The junior showed some impressive touch around the rim in this one as well. Barber can not only shoot from the outside but has also been utilized offensively in the high post. His ability to put the ball on the deck while also being able to see over defenders will be useful as teams look to mix in zone defense. On the other end of the floor, he allowed his team to play more zone themselves against Tuttle. When man defense was called upon, he was tested with the ability of multiple Tuttle forward to stretch the floor and put the ball down as drivers. Barber more than held his own, cutting off drives time and time again with good lateral quickness.

A fitting end to the year for one Oklahoma’s most improved players. Helped started the onslaught of three pointers. And then brought the counter punch by dominating off the dribble. Drives to the rim under control for a player of his size, and then uses hard two foot steps to give him the edge to score. Had 23 points and 9 rebounds in the title game victory. Averaged 19.3 points for the three games and grabbed 7 rebounds game. His efficiency was insane, shooting 66% from the field, including 5 of 9 shooting from three.

A complete performance from an exciting prospect. Blocked shots, hit jumpers and brought the thunder with a couple dunks. Is nimble for his size as a driver. Barber has been one of the most improved prospects in Oklahoma during this season, and it’s fitting he’s finishing the calendar year by continuing to elevate.

Started the game with fireworks including a corner 3 and an alley-oop off the glass. Then helped close it out with two big defensive plays. Had two high flying, rim protecting blocks in the span of about 60 seconds. Then put the cherry on top of the win with a breakaway slam in the final minute. Impressive display of athleticism on both ends of the court from a player who is just scratching at the surface of his high potential. Hopefully a sign that in a few months he’ll be a more consistent rim protector and rebounder.

After a slow start to the scrimmages, Barber heated up in the Knights’ final tilt. Stepped into a three off a ball screen and then got deep into the paint before stopping to drain a 8 footer. Looked smooth and natural in both those instances. Those are the examples of how the junior is an unique prospect at his size and skillset.

The issue is before those moments, he was relatively quiet despite often being one of the taller players on the court. It’s always tricky for tweener prospects like Barber, but maintaining his natural height and athletic advantage around the rim will make him a prized recruit for his versatility as a 3/4 type forward. Embracing the grind around the rim will also greatly benefit a Crossings team that is looking for their seventh straight State Tournament appearance.