Watkins is another available guard still competing in the OHSAA playoffs, leading Perrysburg to a district final against Lima Senior on Friday at Lake High School. Watkins plays primarily point guard for the Jackets but is capable of playing off the ball in a more downhill, slashing role. Watkins best ability is his perimeter defense, which gives opposing ball handlers nightmares when they go against him. College programs looking for a defensive stopper on the perimeter should check out Watkins this March.

One of the better perimeter defenders in Ohio’s 2023 class, Watkins is a two-way impact guard who has been one of the best players in NW Ohio this season. Watkins is a capable shooter from the outside and able to play both on and off the ball offensively in the half court. Watkins should be on scholarship recruiting boards and regional Division III programs should also be reaching out as Watkins could be an instant impact player in a league like the OAC.

Matt Watkins is a leader. He runs the show for Perrysburg flawlessly. He was super consistent all game long and turns it up in the 2nd half when he needed to. His defensive anticipation was great all night. Got a steal and a nice two-handed dunk. I was impressed with his maturity in understanding the time and score of the game. Never forced anything. When the Panthers turned up the pressure defensively he handled it well. Got it to the open player and ran the offense great.

Watkins was the most dominant player on the court in a huge conference showdown that saw Perrysburg defend home court against rival Sylvania Northview. Watkins was getting after it defensively, not letting whoever brought the ball up the court for Northview get a second to breathe. I also liked seeing Watkins confidently pull-up from 3-point range a few times. While Watkins will also be best used at the next level playing off the ball, his team doesn’t have a natural point guard so he fills that role for his team. A player who will do anything to win, Watkins will be one of the highest ranked new additions to our 2023 rankings update coming soon.

Watkins was dynamic on and off the ball as the combo guard was getting it done all day long. Watkins has the ability to beat you off the bounce with one quick off the dribble move and then has the athleticism and touch to finish around the basket. A nose for the ball, Watkins was winning battles for loose balls and causing havoc on the defensive end. I was very impressed with Watkins production in both games that I watched of his and think he’s one of the top 2023 prospects from NW Ohio.