Player: Mateen Cleaves Jr.
Class: 2028
Height: 6’4
School: Dream City Christian
Phenom Hoops continues to watch talent all around the country, most recently getting a chance to watch the Tarkanian Classic over the last week or so. Getting a chance to expand out coverage and eyes of talent, we had a great opportunity to check out a new player, but a familiar name in 2028 6’3 Mateen Cleaves Jr. for Dream City Christian.
That name may sound familiar to some, as Cleaves is the son of Mateen Cleaves who played at Michigan State, won a national title in 2000, was the Final Four Most Outstanding Player, and was a First-Team All-American along with 2x Big Ten Player of the Year. Cleaves ended up being drafted in the first round in 2000 by the Detroit Pistons.
But now, his son is coming up through the landscape, and he looks to be a talent worth noting on the national stage in the Class of 2028. When watching the 6’3 guard, he really showcased his full game and feel as a young prospect.
Watching him on the court, I was incredibly impressed with his overall feel for the game, showcasing that he could be one of the more complete guards nationally. Cleaves Jr. has a strong frame, smooth feel, and plays with an excellent pace overall. You can see he is a high-IQ guard that makes great reads, is comfortable in creating for himself, and just understands how to read the floor. The sophomore guard does a great job in creating and scoring off the dribble, getting to his spots downhill, and playing under control/smooth. It almost seems like he is moving slow but is a strong reader in seeing what is given to him. But he continues to be unselfish with his play, making good reads and unselfish passes in finding his teammates.
Watching him, Cleaves Jr. clearly demonstrates a high-major feel and easily should be a national prospect by all outlets. It will be interesting to see how his recruitment goes; obviously, Michigan State may be a team in the picture with his dad playing there and the Spartans already offering him. He also holds offers from Western Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Rutgers, San Diego, and Sacramento State, but others should look to get involved down the road.