Coach Rick’s All State “Leadership Award”
6’0 2021 Jaden Ellis (Page HS)
Greensboro Page had a huge turn around in their 2019-20 season. Two things can be contributed to Page going from a 10-14 record the previous season to 16-12 this past season. First year Coach Evan Fancourt is a proven winner and has the ability to get the most out of his teams. Second, the leadership ability of 6’0 2021 Jaden Ellis. Ellis averaged 15.6 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 3.4 APG and 1.3 SPG.
We got a chance to watch Ellis first hand at the Phenom Gate City Classic that was held at Greensboro Day. In the win over First Flight, we wrote the following. “Ellis was absolutely terrific as he was efficient and productive and showcased a nice blend of athleticism, skill, basketball IQ, and excellent feel for the game all rolled into one. Ellis finished with a game high 34 points going 10-16 from the floor, 3-5 from the 3-point line and 11-16 from the free throw line. In addition, he collected three rebounds, dished out five assists and even had two steals while only committing one turnover. In the fast tempo game, Ellis proved to be in complete control and proved he’s a player who stock is on the rise.”
More importantly, we were equally impressed with his vocal leadership on the court. He simply led by example. In speaking with head coach Evan Fancort, he stated the following. “Ellis was asked to carry a huge load for this team, really an impossible load. He was asked to be a point guard, break pressure, initiate offense, score the ball at a high rate, pressure the other team’s primary ball handler, etc. Ellis responded in every way. He took a team that finished in last place in the conference and did not make the playoffs, and led them to 16 wins, the conference championship, and the second round of the state playoffs. He is one of the best guards in the state.”