The term “plays bigger than his size” could not be a better way to describe JT’s production at the event. Combining physicality with strength and athleticism made him nearly unstoppable when he wanted to get downhill. The best part about his skillset is his understanding of what he does well and continually going back to that rather than playing out of character.

Typically, there are no such thing as layups for JT as he looks fo dunk everything with power. Half court dunks typically tell you how good of an athlete a player is, and JT had numerous slams in half court situations. He doesn’t need the ball to be effective, as he’s able to rebound, screen, and be a plus defender on the defensive end. While he didn’t show much of it, there were flashes of a mid-range jump shot being in his skillset. As he develops that more, he’ll become an even more load to handle with his aggressive downhill mindset.

Another highly-ranked 2027 starting to make some noise on the recruiting front is is Van Kallen. He is one of the most physically impressive guards in South Carolina, combining positional size with strength and elite athleticism. JT is handful when driving to the rim because of those traits, which allow him to finish above the, below the rim, or in the mid-range. He currently holds offers from in-state D2s Benedict and USC Beaufort.

JT Van Kallen JT Van Kallen 6'3" | CG Ridge View | 2027 State SC rounds out the list. His combination of strength and athleticism left a good impression on many at the Camp of Champs. There aren’t many guards in South Carolina with the physical traits of JT, and when he wants to get to the rim, there are very few defenders who can stop him. His size also allows him to defend multiple positions, but he’s also a skilled finisher around the rim when he’s not bullying a matchup.

Switching over to Tuesday’s highly-anticipated matchup between Ridge View and Dorman, JT was a player who stepped up for the Blazers. He did a little bit of everything for them, tallying 7 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals, by my count. Although his rebounding was huge, particularly as Dorman’s interior defense began to wear down, the biggest play of the night from Vankallen came midway through the fourth quarter when he hit a clutch right-wing three to put Ridge View up 64-58. The Blazers will have a size advantage in their next matchup, so look for JT to be active and effective early.

Another player who was key to the Ridge View victory was Vankallen. He played a small-ball 5 for the entirety of the second half 23 total minutes off the bench in the win. Although listed at 6’3″, JT is a terrific athlete and plays bigger than his size due to his vertical and motor. Vankallen had several high-flying rebounds on both ends of the floor and was a crucial protector of the rim. He also drew a charge, had active feet on defense, and made key plays finishing through contact with his remarkably soft touch in the fourth quarter. Vankallen finished with 12 Points, 7 Rebounds, and 2 Blocks in the game.

Vankallen was one of the biggest stock risers in the most recent Prep Hoops SC Rankings so he’s someone we are eager to see on the floor again. He plays bigger than his size because he is such a hard worker and a good athlete. JT will also do all the dirty work for his team protecting the rim, fighting for defensive rebounds, and chasing down offensive ones too. He is also a very strong finisher capable of scoring through bigger bodies.

Josh is an explosive wing at times on the floor with his play. He plays with a motor that never seems to stop while he is on the floor. He really made a strong jump this time around from #65 to #20. Josh plays the game with plenty of physicality and looks to overpower defenders at times.