It is always nice to see when players, who showcase their talent and upside at an early age, live up to their potential and at times surpass it.
2021 6’5 Jalen McDonald is looking like one of those players in the state of North Carolina. Phenom Hoop Report got a great look at McDonald at an early age when he played with Boo Williams 2020 Cox back in 2017 at the Phenom Grassroots TOC and Champion Showcase, as our scouts said:
“6’4 2021 Jalen McDonald is tracking to be a high-level prospect. Lefty is explosive with a natural feel.” – Jamie Shaw
“Jalen McDonald is a 6’4 versatile playmaker at such a young age. Nice handles, scores the ball effectively.” – Patrick O’Brien
He has continued to develop his game and is growing into his own, as he is now cashing in and impressing the college coaches.
“Overall, summer is going well,” he said. “I love the opportunity that I got to take part in as far as what I have accomplished. I played well on the Adidas Gauntlet. I could have done better and pushed myself a little bit harder in some games but I plan on working hard and having a big year next year for school ball and AAU.”
Displaying a scorer’s mentality early on, McDonald has improved his vision on the court, becoming a better passer, as well so continue to be an impact in the scoring column with his athleticism.
Programs aren’t waiting around to offer this young man though, as he has earned offers from East Carolina, Ole Miss, Appalachian State, Murray State, and Norfolk State and more should be coming.
“I feel it is just starting for me but a lot of schools have been talking to me and showing interest in me. I have a feeling pretty soon that I’m going to blow up on the recruiting board, I’m just waiting on my time as of right now.”
Along with the offers he has already earned, schools like Wake Forest, UNCG, Charlotte, Rutgers, NC State, Pittsburgh, and Cincinnati are just a few schools that have been tracking McDonald as well.
Coaches have been really impressed with his development, saying “they like fast athletic guys that can get up and down the floor and makes plays in transition. They feel like I would fit right into the system they have.”
When Phenom Hoops first watched McDonald, we knew immediately that this young man had the talent to be a big-time recruit for any program as he continues to develop and grow into his frame. It looks early on, that his recruitment is trending upward but this may only be the start for the North Carolina product.