There’s not much else that can be said about the 2023 class top player, Jaylin Stewart Jaylin Stewart 6'7" | SG Garfield | 2023 State #71 Nation WA . He is headed off to the University of Connecticut next season. He can do it all on the court and does it all so smoothly. Stewart makes plays all over the court and brings a skillset that not even the best defenders can handle. He can score any way you please, and his defensive effort is quietly just as impressive. He explodes toward the rim to reject shots, and has the length and footwork to lockdown smaller, quicker players.

Stewart left his mark all over this tournament, scoring from all levels and rebounding the ball at a high rate. He ended up second in total scoring, first in rebounds per game and total free throws made. He eclipsed the 30-point mark twice, but most impressive was his efficiency. Stewart only missed more than three field goals in one out of the four games he played at the Invite, while averaging over 25 points per game. He was the most dominant player out there and looks like a man on a mission to end his high school career with a championship.

Stewart has a right to be in the Player of the Year conversation as well. He has been a top player for one of the top teams in the state both last season and entering this year. Being able to stand shoulders above some truly talented teammates should not go overlooked, and Stewart is another player who looks ready for the next level as he enters his senior season.

Stewart was by all means an All-State-caliber player last season, so it reasons that he would be a solid pick for 3A Player of the Year. He’s an athletic, three-level scorer who is an excellent defender as well. There is no getting around the fact that Garfield was disappointed with last season’s result, and I expect Stewart to lead a highly motivated Bulldog team this winter. The four-star recruit heads to Mansfield after this season to suit up for Dan Hurley and the UConn Huskies.

Starting with the top-ranked player in the state, Stewart makes plays all over the court and brings a skillset that burns even the best defenders. The UConn commit can score any way you please, and his defensive effort is quietly just as impressive. He shows great hands getting tips, explodes toward the rim to reject shots, and has the length and footwork to lockdown smaller, quicker players.

One of the biggest and most athletic guards in the state, Stewart has incredible strength that allows him to make the long-range shot look easy. His power is most apparent at the rim but you can also see that power at play with step-back threes or shots fading away from defenders. Stewart has the grown man’s strength that makes his stroke from deep easy.

Maybe the most high profile big man in the state. He rounds out the starting five. The West could have the advantage on the boards, since I now have two athletic bigs that are active and willing to take on whatever you need to win. He can get out and run with the other four as well. I should get plenty of second shot opportunities with this team.

No. 1 | Stewart finished the summer strong, earning second-team honors at the Nike EYBL Peach Jam and picking up offers from USC, UConn, and Utah State. He brings the whole package when he steps on the court starting with his elite scoring ability. Far from just a scorer though, Stewart is an underrated defender who can pick up just about any position on the court.