-Zaid impressed down the stretch run of the season as a big guard that bullied his way to spots in the halfcourt regardless of the defender that matched up with him. Loved the array of different finishing moves and euro/spin moves that he put on display to get to his spots in the halfcourt to score in the paint. Zaid played ahead of his years at the defensive end of the floor to play multiple positions as a physical defender that doesn’t give up an inch to his opponent. Will be interesting to see how Takeover uses him over the course of this spring and summer as a guard prospect that unlocks a lot of rotational possibilities for his team. 

Zaid has looked the part all season, and for a young player he already carries himself like somebody that’s been in big games before. He’s a smooth scorer who can catch and shoot around the floor, but he’s also comfortable creating his own offense with touch and craft. Yusuf’s handle stands out early when watching him because he’s elusive and shifty with the ball, and he already has that “ball on a string” type of control that separates young guards from the pack. He gets to spots cleanly, finishes creatively around defenders, and doesn’t speed up when the pressure ramps up. Zaid’s stock continues to rise because the skill level is obvious, but the composure and confidence have been consistent all season.

-Zaid is one of the biggest movers of the cycle within our top 50, moving up 10 spots to break into our top 5. The physical guard has really left an impression on our scouts as an absolute bulldog on both sides of the ball that leaves a consistent impact on the game. There isn’t a lot of extra to his game, Zaid gets to his spots quickly and efficiently while playing within himself– a sign of his advanced maturity and feel. He’s been a consistent producer as a freshman starter within a Landon rotation that has played some really good teams tough for the first 3 quarters or so. We look forward to monitoring his game and his team as they look to close out some of those big local wins that will put their team emphatically on the map within the DMV basketball scene.

Moved up from 15 to 5. Between his size, athleticism, and exceptional scoring polish, he has the tools to completely dominate opponents. Yusef can score the ball in virtually every possible way. He shows the ability to attack the basket, hit jumpers off the catch or bounce, post up smaller players, or find opportunities without the ball in his hands. Yusef puts pressure on the rim and displays deep range from beyond the arc, but also mixes it up enough to keep defenses constantly guessing. He also possesses rebounding prowess, defensive instincts, and capable playmaking ability. Given his current trajectory, Yusef should appeal to all types of college coaches.

Yusuf Zaid Yusuf Zaid 6'2" | CG Landon School | 2029 State MD is a name that will be mentioned a lot for the next 4 years. Yusef is one of the top freshmen in the DMV market. Possesses a strong athletic frame and well-rounded guard/forward skills. He used his quick twitch athleticism, explosiveness, and speed to weave his way by defenders. He could burst through a defender to the rim, pull up for a mid-range shot, or knock down a shot from three-point range. Zaid had the versatility to play on or off the ball. Defensively, he guards multiple positions and proved to be an advanced rebounder for his size. Finish the game against Virginia Academy with 24 points on 11-17 from the field, 4 rebounds and 1 steal.

Yusuf Zaid Yusuf Zaid 6'2" | CG Landon School | 2029 State MD is a talented 6-foot-2 prospect in the Class of 2029. Given the effortless way he scored the ball, it was easy to recognize his impact. Yusuf is a smooth, well-rounded guard with great IQ, size, and athleticism. He handles the ball well and can create for himself and others off the bounce. Yusuf is a willing playmaker but is arguably at his best when looking to fill it up as a scorer from all three levels. He’s an active defender and rebounder. Next in his development process is working on getting stronger, as it would make him a more physically imposing player. Yusuf displayed a lot of ability with the ball in his hands. Consistently found ways to apply scoring pressure. Great at attacking in transition. Hits jumpers at a nice rate and sees the floor well as a passer. Competes defensively and rebounds well for his size/position.” Yusuf stood out as one of the incoming freshmen in the DMV area. A young productive player on display should be a key contributor for The Landon School this season.