Player: Niles Mason
Class: 2029
Height: 6’6
School: Steward
Virginia has been a loaded state of talent, and I don’t see that slowing down any time soon. Looking early on at a few freshmen that have been making their mark, 2029 6’6 Niles Mason from Steward is one that stood out immediately.
Why? Well, Mason was one that we had a chance to see a few years back, andI was impressed with his play as a young prospect. A while back, we had this to say about his game as a prospect in middle school:
“Mason intrigued me a lot and I believe that he could develop into a player to watch down the road. Though he still has room for growth and understanding of the game, Mason has a chance to be a forward who can be a presence on the boards, one that can make plays from multiple levels, display touch and explosiveness on the court, and a player that has a really good feel for the game.”
“A younger prospect that certainly grabbed my attention and could be one to watch, Mason brings a tremendous blend early on of size, strength down low, and a fluid skillset to the court. Really liked his impact around the basket along with his activity, as well as being able to run the floor, operate from several areas on the court, and step out at times. Showed flashes of what he could become.”
He is starting off his high school career at Steward in impressive fashion as a freshman, averaging 17.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 2.5 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game, as the Spartans have strong building blocks for the future. He continues to overpower opponents with his ability to impact the game inside and on the glass, showing touch and explosiveness as a forward. Mason plays with tremendous overall activity and has upside in his game. And from what we have seen early on along with a strong freshman season, Mason has a chance to be a big-time prospect in the state of Virginia as you will be hearing more about him down the road.