By; DeAjai Dawkins
6’3 2022 Rasean Cason (All Carolina 17U)
Rasean Cason is another player who I watched for the very first time this weekend. Cason caught my attention with his blend of athleticism, 3-level scoring potential, and a rugged mentality that keeps both himself and his team engaged. On the defensive end, Rasean’s face tells the story of a defender prepared for battle. I would like to see more of his game to assess how I personally feel like he could fit at the next level, but I would hope that a few college coaches have already taken on that assignment.
6’2 2024 Miles Beard (CC Elite 2024)
2024 Miles Beard is a prospect coming off his first varsity season for Hickory Ridge. Beard has noteworthy positional strength as a combo guard, and has shown an ability to shoot at high volumes. I believe the best of Beard’s young offensive game is yet to come, as he still has yet to display a slashing prowess that I believe is inevitable given his size. Once Miles realizes how strong he is in comparison to defending guards, and begins using his strength as an asset when attacking the rim, I realistically see him serving as a primary scoring option. These next 3 seasons for Beard could be special to watch.
6’3 2021 Chas Stinson (Team United 2021)
I’ve seen Chas Stinson play before, but never walked away with the conclusion that he’s left me with this weekend. Chas is a college-level guard. Length and a high offensive motor allow Chas to challenge smaller defenders at the rim, and he’s grown accustomed to taking shots that likely sees him shooting over defenders fairly often. Today, Stinson show d potential as a 3-level scorer at the college level, and should continue to work on his perimeter and mid-range consistency to solidify himself as one. As of now, Stinson has shown both offensive and defensive liability, the next step is seeing which college coach will get to take advantage of it.
6’2 2023 Derek “Flash” Bradley (PSB Elite Bethel 16U)
Bradley is a strong, physical combo guard with multi-dimensional capabilities on the offensive end. His frame and dual-sport background (former football player) allows him to perform from inside the paint, while his shooting touch allows him to shine from the perimeter. Today, Derek hit 5 consecutive 3 pointers, missed one, and continued to hit two more in what was ultimately a 32 point performance, while playing up an age group. Derek has state championship experience, playing for Gaston Christian during the high school season. I believe that his individual talents are only going to grow from this point forward, and his senior year very well may see him as his school’s go-to option when times call for one.