If ankle insurance existed, defenders guarding EJ Rosado would need a policy.

Rosado was one of the shiftiest guards in the building with a handle that looked connected to a yo-yo.

The ball never seems far from his control.

He changes speeds, gets downhill effortlessly, and finishes around the rim with either hand. Beyond the scoring, he showed impressive command running the offense and manipulating angles in ball-screen situations.

The jumper is still developing, but the confidence and mechanics suggest it’ll come.

EJ Rosado might have the shiftiest handle in the building.

Seriously.

The ball looks attached to his hand sometimes.

That herky-jerky pace keeps defenders guessing and allows him to get downhill almost whenever he wants.

He’s also advanced in pick-and-roll situations and already understands angles that many young guards simply don’t see yet.

The jumper will continue improving.

The creativity already exists.

Rosado showed off good first step quickness with the ability to close on opponents and get in passing lanes to cause turnovers. The point guard was able to capitalize on the turnovers as well, going the length of the court for multiple fastbreak layups. The 5’9 point guard is quick in the lane as well, driving to the rim with authority.

“Shooter” was the first descriptor to come to mind after watching Eric, also known as “EJ,” for a few minutes. While that remained true, a full game’s play told a more complete story. EJ has an advanced IQ and skillset for his age that should set him up for a long career of basketball. He has a level of wiggle that the kids might consider “shifty” these days on top of a mature handle on the game that just feels trustworthy. I’d expect the ball to be in EJ’s hands for most late game situations that Nova Elite steps into this season.