Eugene’s rise has a lot to do with taking on a role for the year which I am sure took a lot of sacrifice, but then this Summer showed that he could do even more than expected. Jay averaged 8.4 points, 2.4 assists and an impressive 3.9 steals a game. This summer, he put on more of an offensive role and looked well when we saw him. He’s a defensive pest who picks up 90 feet, he speeds guards up and his hands are very active. He was willing to put his body on the line and it turned into turnovers against him. Offensively, he attacked gaps and bigger players without hesitation and continued to get down hill. When the defense collapses he’s a willing passer and finishes well. He’s very aggressive and that works out for him. The next step is him blending that attacking mentality with the responsibilities of a true point guard. If Eugene starts the year controlling games while still bringing that same confidence, he has a chance to make another significant move but was certainly a riser. 

Eugene is a player who can put points on the board in a hurry and brings an attacking mentality every time he steps on the floor. He’s always in full go mode, constantly looking to pressure the defense and create something offensively. What stands out is how well he uses leverage and angles to gain advantages, allowing him to create separation and get himself into scoring opportunities. Eugene has the tools to be a tough matchup when he gets downhill, and The Expo gives him a great opportunity to showcase that attacking style against quality competition. A strong showing could help turn his scoring ability into real momentum heading into the season

Jay is a heart over hype type of player, and he moves with confidence, which I enjoy. He plays with an edge, attacks on every possession, and never backs down from bigger defenders. His first step at Tune Up is what stood out to me as he got to where he wanted. Defenders struggled to stay in front of him, and once he got downhill, he looked comfortable finishing or making the next play. What stood out most was the swagger he plays with. He wanted the ball in big moments, embraced a larger offensive role than we’re accustomed to seeing during the season, and proved he can create against quality competition. Defensively, he guards close and is good in screen navigation, even getting multiple calls from just beating guys to the spot, which you love to see in smaller guards. This event felt like the beginning of him introducing himself to a much bigger audience, and I left wanting to see what his game looks like as he continues balancing scoring with running a team. Can’t wait to see him in that true PG role. 

Eugene is the type of player coaches love because he brings nonstop energy and competes hard on every possession. His numbers of 8.6 points, 3 rebounds and 3.9 steals only begin to show the impact he makes. Offensively he is an aggressive attacker who looks to pressure defenses, get downhill and finish at the rim. What makes him even tougher to guard is his ability to suddenly hit the brakes and rise into a pull up jumper, keeping defenders guessing. On the defensive end he plays with a tough nosed mentality, staying attached to his man while also reading the floor well enough to jump passing lanes and force turnovers. His activity level changes games, and his effort is contagious to teammates. Eugene’s all around motor, playmaking instincts and competitive edge make him a name that continues to stand out