6’6 ’27 Sam Plouride (Tennessee Tigers)
Given the value of size and shooting, it was easy to see the intrigue with a prospect like Plouride. He possesses a long, wiry frame with quality feel, useful ball skills, and an incredibly smooth jumper. Plouride really excels as a spot-up threat along the perimeter, but has the ability to attack closeouts and make plays off the bounce. He’s a capable finisher and poses a nice threat in the midrange, but also looks to make the extra pass when available. Plouride is a nice athlete who moves well for his size and provides consistent effort on both ends of the floor. He also highlighted the ability to reliably produce within a role or expand his production as needed.
6’5 ’27 Kensley Parks (Upward Stars Columbia)
It feels like more coaches should be in pursuit of someone like Parks, who shines through his nonstop effort, physical approach, and low-maintenance identity on both ends of the floor. He consistently does the dirty work and fills in the gaps within the flow of the action. Parks offers a tough, rugged defensive presence with the ability to effectively guard multiple positions. He plays bigger than his size on the glass and is comfortable enough to push the break in transition. Offensively, Parks is a quality finisher who can apply pressure off the bounce or position himself for drop-offs. He can also knock down open jumpers at a respectable rate.
6’4 ’27 Isaiah Daniels (SC Blazers)
Between his size, skill, and powerful athleticism, there’s so much to like about Daniels and his overall toolkit. He’s an explosive guard with excellent length, fluidity, and two-way instincts. Daniels applies consistent pressure as a penetrator and downhill threat, showing the ability to finish through contact or above the rim with relative ease. He knocks down jumpers at a solid rate, but looks to attack whenever possible. Daniels is a capable playmaker with useful ball skills and vision to set up others. He’s an impactful defensive cog who can guard multiple positions and force turnovers on a regular basis. Various types of scholarship-level programs should be involved.
5’11 ’27 Christan Jones (Anthony Morrow Elite)
Although there are a lot of talented guards throughout the state right now, it feels like Jones should have more action within his recruitment. He’s a very skilled, polished lead guard who can fill it up as a scorer in a variety of ways. Jones utilizes his tight, crafty handle and quick first step to effortlessly break down opponents and get where he wants on the floor. He’s a capable playmaking threat, but is arguably at his best when mixing it up as a scorer from all levels. Jones shoots the ball well, both from midrange and beyond the arc, and finishes very effectively for his size. He displays IQ and pace when attacking, but can also find opportunities without the ball. Jones is a scrappy defender with the strength and toughness to contain his assignment.