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The NBA In-Season Tournament has concluded, and there are 13 games on the NBA Slate today. Beginning at 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. ET, there are several key matchups in both conferences. Will the Detroit Pistons let their losing streak slide to 20 straight games? Can the San Antonio Spurs snap a 16- game losing skid? ?Here you will find the NBA betting odds, stats, trends, player prop bets, and predictions for Monday, Dec. 11.
The NBA slate is back!
— Ballislife Bets (@BallislifeBets) December 11, 2023
Pacers (-7) @ Pistons
Wizards @ 76ers (-11.5)
Heat (-4) @ Hornets
Cavaliers @ Magic (-1.5)
Nuggets (-2.5) @ Hawks
Raptors @ Knicks (-4.5)
Bulls @ Bucks (-11.5)
Mavericks (-2) @ Grizzlies
Jazz @ Thunder (-12)
Spurs @ Rockets (-8.5)
Timberwolves @ Pelicans…
NBA Daily Game Odds for 12/11
*Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook
- Pacers (-7) (-278) @ Pistons (+225): O/U 247
- Wizards (+490) @ 76ers (-12) (-675): O/U 244.5
- Heat (-4) (-166) @ Hornets (+140): O/U 221
- Cavaliers (+105) @ Magic (-1.5) (-125): O/U 227
- Nuggets (-2.5) (-142) @ Hawks (+120): O/U 241.5
- Raptors (+150) @ Knicks (-4.5) (-180): O/U 221
- Bulls (+425) @ Bucks (-11.5) (-575): O/U 233
- Mavericks (-1.5) (-122) @ Grizzlies (+102): O/U 227
- Jazz (+525) @ Thunder (-12.5) (-750): O/U 233
- Spurs (+280) @ Rockets (-8.5)(-355): O/U 225
- Timberwolves (+136) @ Pelicans (-3.5) (-162): O/U 222.5
- Nets (+154) @ Kings (-4.5) (-185): O/U 236
- Trail Blazers (+575) @ Clippers (-13) (-850): O/U 220
NBA Bet #1: Minnesota Timberwolves +4 (-105)
eyes on seven straight.
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) December 11, 2023
Wolves at Pelicans
7pm CT, Smoothie King Center? @BallySportsNOR
? @iHeartRadio App
? https://t.co/gPhx0nwXoS
Preview ? https://t.co/2RLlRuNukg pic.twitter.com/7yEtZwADJ4
The Minnesota Timberwolves (17-4, 7-3 away) will matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans (12-11, 8-4 home) on the road tonight. While the Pelicans were blown out 133-89 in the tournament semifinals, Minnesota has cruised to 6 straight victories. With Anthony Edwards listed as a game time decision for the Timberwolves, they currently hold the best record in the NBA.
While the line continues to move, I grabbed Minnesota at +4 at -105. Even with Edwards listed as questionable, this Timberwolves team are the real deal. Known for the defensive prowess, the Wolves lead the NBA in defensive rating (106.2). With that said, the Wolves, led by head coach Chris Finch, are second in the league in defensive rebounding (36.1). Off to their best start in franchise history, a large part of their defensive success can be accredited to Center Rudy Gobert. Gobert, previously acquired from the Utah Jazz, ranks third among all big men in boards per game. An elite rim protector, Gobert ranks 10th overall in defended field goals attempted (17.8).
Over their 6 game win streak, Minnesota still leads the NBA in defensive efficiency, limiting teams to just 44.1 points in the paint, second behind Chicago and Memphis. Second in blocks (6.6) over the winning streak, the Timberwolves have the best free-throw percentage. Limiting opponents to a low 105.2 points per game, Finch's squad has a +7.8 point differential, second behind the Boston Celtics. With consecutive victories over the Memphis Grizzlies, San Antonio Spurs, Charlotte Hornets, Utah Jazz, and Oklahoma City Thunder, they will get a tough test tonight. While only one of those opponents are above .500, the Pelicans are 3-2 in their last five games.
Overall, the Timberwolves are not favored in this game, especially since they are on the road. 7-3 in away games, Minnesota is 12-9-0 against the spread, compared to the Pelicans, who are 13-9-1. 4-5 against the spread in road games, the Timberwolves have been able to cover the spread three consecutive games away from Minnesota. Although averaging only 113 points a game, the the Wolves have one of the best field goal percentages league wide (48.1 %).
Minnesota is a defensive powerhouse
There's no question why Minnesota are underdogs, especially with injuries to Jordan McLaughlin, Jaden McDaniels, and now Edwards uncertain to suit up. While averaging 113 points during their win streak, they've limited the past 6 opponents to 100 points per game. Even without McDaniels, who is an underrated defender, this team has figured out how to win games. The best of 4 regular season series, Minnesota holds a 2-0 lead over New Orleans, including a 121-120 thrilling victory in New Orleans early on this season.
As I previously stated, the Pelicans are one of my favorite teams this season, especially when healthy. A team that shoots 35.7 percent from long range will now face a Wolves team thats holding opposing teams to 33.6 % shooting beyond the arc. While New Orleans has a magnitude of talent with Zion Williamson, C.J. McCollum, Brandon Ingram, and so forth, it's concerning they laid an egg against the Lakers. With Williamson and Ingram held to 22 combined points, New Orleans couldn't find their stride anywhere on the hardwood. Back and healthy, Williamson has gone missing, putting up a combined 23 points in the last two matchups.
This season, the Pelicans are an average team on both sides of the ball. While the Timberwolves haven't allowed a team to score over 103 points over the last 6 games, their defense should be able to keep the Pelicans in check, and this game fairly close tonight. In their last 10 games head-to head, Minnesota has a win/loss record of 6-4, and covered the spread 4 of the last 5 meetings. If you're betting on the NBA, I'm picking Minnesota to cover.
NBA Bet #2: OKC Thunder -12.5 (-112)
Passion for the game pic.twitter.com/ALn08Eo2Ip
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) December 9, 2023
The Oklahoma City Thunder (14-7, 7-4 home) will host the Utah Jazz (7-15, 1-10 away) at home tonight. 3-2 in their last 5 matchups, the Thunder had an exhilarating 138-136 OT victory over the Warriors. The Jazz, who are 1-4 in their last five games, are coming off a 117-103 loss against the Los Angeles Clippers. Tonight, the Jazz will be without star Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler, while John Collins is listed as questionable. One of the youngest teams in the league, the Thunder are truly an exciting units to watch.
If you're betting on the NBA, OKC is 7-4 at home, and I grabbed the spread at -12.5 this morning. With the return of Rookie Chet Holmgren has been the emergence of MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA). Averaging 30.5 points per game, SGA has elevated his game defensively, averaging 2.8 steals a game. With a strong starting five, the Thunder are middle of the road in bench points per game (35.3).
Second in scoring is Jalen Williams, who's coming off a 28 point, performance against Golden State. With Holmgren, Josh Giddey, and Lugentz Dort all averaging points in double figures, OKC is a top ten team in terms of offense and defense. Although Dort is out for tonight's matchup, the Thunder shouldn't have any problem tonight against the Jazz.
With OKC ranked third in overall net rating (7.2), they are a fast paced team, who puts up nearly 120 points a game, and allows 112.5 opponent points. One of the more elite teams in terms of guarding the perimeter, the Thunder have an 88.3 percent change to win this game outright, according to ESPN Analytics. With impressive victories over the Warriors, Lakers, and the Mavericks, this is a team thats averaged 120 points in their last 5 matchups, while allowing 116 points. Third overall in NBA point differential (+7.2), they face a Jazz team that has a point differential of -8.7.
The Thunder are the real deal
While the Jazz showed promise in the 2021-2022 season, they are in complete rebuild mode, especially with the departure of Donovan Mitchell, Ruby Gobert, and Mike Conley. 1-4 in their lat 5 matchups, Utah struggles offensively, only putting up 111 points per game. One of the worst teams in terms of field goal percentage, Utah ranks near last in defense, allowing teams to out up 119.7 points per game. While Markkanen is out tonight, the Jazz will be hurting without it's biggest star. Their biggest struggles have recently been put on full display.
Overall, the Jazz are large underdogs, which factors in injuries, win/loss record, and away record. 1-10 on the road, Utah has a 11-11-0 record against the spread, while the Thunder are 14-7. 6-4 against the spread in the last ten matchups, OKC has a stellar 8-3 record against the spread on the road. With the Jazz blown out 147-97 against the Mavericks, I can't see this game remotely close. In the last five matchups, Utah has closest game was a 5 point differential in overtime against Portland. They've been defeated by 11 points or more in four matchups against the Clippers, Mavericks, Timberwolves, and Grizzlies. If you're betting on the NBA tonight, I'm picking OKC to cover the spread.
NBA Bet #3: Denver Nuggets -2.5 (-112)
Back-to-back starts tonight in ATL
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) December 11, 20235:30 PM?
The Denver Nuggets (14-9, 5-8 away) will face the Atlanta Hawks (9-12, 3-6 home) on the road tonight. 2-3 in their last five matchups, the Nuggets have been unrecognizable as of late. They will look to bounce back tonight after three consecutive losses against the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Clippers, and the Sacramento Kings. While the Nuggets were initially considered underdogs this evening, it looks as though Jamal Murray will suit up for tonights matchup. For the Hawks, guard Trae Young is back with the team, while DeAndre Hunter is listed as a game-time decision.
If you're betting on the NBA, yes, the Nuggets have been terrible on the road. However, this has to be their bounce back game. While in the worst stretch of their season, the Nuggets should have their healthy starting five on the floor tonight. With 71 % bettors putting money on Denver to cover the spread, they will face Atlanta, who've lost three straight against the 76ers, Nets, and Bucks.
Why the Nuggets can cover the spread
Overall, these teams are not comparable on paper. The Hawks have some decent pieces, and put up the second most points in the league, but their defense has been atrocious. A decent three-point shooting team under head coach Quinn Snyder, is allowing opposing teams to score nearly 123 points a game. Tonight they get the reigning NBA Champions, who are a top 8 defensive team.
Overall, there's one piece of information you should know before betting on this matchup. The Hawks are just 5-16 against the spread this season, and the Nuggets, 8-15. 1-9 against the spread in the last ten matchups, Atlanta hasn't been able to cover in 6 straight games. With Nikola Jokic struggling with his shot, Murray was ejected last game. Back after an 11 game absence, the Nuggets have a 6-4 win/loss record against the Hawks. With a 20 point victory over Atlanta early 2023, they shouldn't have any problem covering the -2.5 spread tonight.
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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at Ballislife, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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]]>Today, there are 12 games on the NBA slate today. Beginning at 4 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. EST, there are several key matchups between the Eastern and Western Conference. Will the Orlando Magic extend their winning streak to ten games? Will?Trae Young and Tyrese Haliburton continue their incredible game play after 40 plus performances? Here you will find the NBA betting odds, stats, trends, player prop bets, and predictions for Saturday, December 2.
Saturday’s slate
— NBA (@NBA) December 2, 2023Magic try to win 10 straight
Trae/Haliburton look to follow up 40+ PTS, 10+ AST performances
NBA Daily Game Odds for 12/2
*Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook
- Warriors (+164) @ Clippers (-198) (-5): O/U 229
- Timberwolves (-198) (-5) @ Hornets (+164): O/U 221
- Cavaliers (-410) (-9) @ Pistons (+320): O/U: 225.5
- Magic (+120) @ Nets (-142) (-2.5): O/U 226
- Hawks (+205) @ Bucks (-250) (-6): O/U 253
- Pelicans (-166) (-3.5) @ Bulls (+140): O/U 220.5
- Pacers (+170) @ Heat (-205) (-5): O/U: 236.5
- Grizzlies (+310) @ Suns (-395) (-9): O/U 218.5
- Thunder (-175) (-4) @ (+145) Mavericks: O/U 235.5
- Trail Blazers (+102) @ Jazz (-122) (-1.5): O/U 217.5
- Nuggets (+164) @ Kings (-198) (-4.5): O/U 233
- Rockets (+164) @ Lakers (-198) (-5): O/U 223
NBA Bet #1: Rudy Gobert 2+ Blocks (-145)
Rudy’s last 5 games
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) December 2, 2023
14.0 PPG
11.0 RPG
2.8 BPG
63.6% FG pic.twitter.com/nQtPcThLjM
Season Stats?PPG:?12.6 |?FG:?58.3 %?| 3 PT:?0%?| FT:?61.1 %?| REB:?11.6?| AST:1.1?| STL:?0.6?| BLK:?2.3
Tonight, the Minnesota Timberwolves (14-4, 5-3 away) will face the Charlotte Hornets (6-11,3-6 home) on the road tonight. Leading the NBA in defensive rating (105.9), Rudy Gobert is averaging well over 2 blocks a game this season. One of the best rim protectors in the game, Gobert faces a Charlotte team that has been riddled with injuries and allows five blocks per game.
Minnesota is filled with defensive talent next to Gobert, including Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid. Tonight, they get the Hornets who have allowed six straight centers to hit over block props, including Mitchell Robinson, Brook Lopez, Bam Adebayo, Daniel Gafford, and Jalen Duren.
If you're betting on the NBA, Gobert has 2 blocks in 6 straight games against the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies, Oklahoma City Thunder, and the Utah Jazz. With 7 blocks in two matchups, it's hard to fade Gobert, who has an excellent matchup against the Hornets this evening. With a 78 percent hit rate this season, the Timberwolves Center has a career average 2.8 blocks against Charlotte, who currently lead the NBA in paint points percentage (49.3).
Rudy Gobert is an elite rim protector
The Hornets will be without guard LaMelo Ball, who suffered from an ankle injury last week. Even without Ball, Gobert hasn't had a problem playing elite defense, and at a consistent level. 5th in total blocks this season, Gobert has a total of 42 blocks in 18 games played, and only hit the under in just 3 games.
If you bet on props of any sports, of court home court and road statistics 100 percent matter. With an 80 percent hit rate in four of the last five road games, the Timberwolves Center will mostly matchup against Hornets Center Mark Williams. A Hornets team that plays a bigger guard lineup with Brandon Miller and Gordon Hayward next to Terry Rozier, I see Gobert having a prime matchup. Playing stellar defense once again, Gobert also has 29 rebounds in the last two matchups. I'm so confident in this prop, I chose not to touch the alternate lines tonight. Rudy Gobert is a top 5 center defensively, and I am absolutely not fading a player who should easily have 2 plus blocks tonight.
NBA Bet #2: Nikola Jokic 1+ Steals (-225)
Going to bed with a win
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) December 2, 2023
Night night, Wuggets Wationpic.twitter.com/LgsshF7Fg1
Season Stats?PPG:?28.6 |?FG:?52.5 %?| 3 PT:?26.5 %?| FT:?81.4 %?| REB:?11.7?| AST: 11?| STL:?1.3?| BLK:?0.8
The reigning champion Denver Nuggets (14-6, 5-6 away) will face the Sacramento Kings (10-7, 5-2 home) on the road tonight. With Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon listed as a game time decision for the Nuggets, Jokic remains healthy and off the injury report. Coming off a 1 steal, 16 assist night against the Phoenix Suns, Jokic is averaging 1.2 steals a game.
If you're betting on the NBA, I know, steals and blocks aren't the most popular props. However, I find the most trap games have always come with Nikola Jokic points. If you're not sure about this prop, Jokic has at least one steal in 5 straight games against the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, Phoenix Suns, and Houston Rockets. Furthermore, the former MVP has 6 steals in the last 4 matchups, and faces the Kings who rank 18th in total turnovers per game (14.4).
Jokic has a steal in the last 5 matchups
A 100 percent hit rate against Sacramento last season, Jokic 1 + steals has a 68 percent hit rate this season, and 70 percent in the last 10 games. A rising team in the Western Conference, the Kings have certainly struggled on defense and in certain aspects over the last few years. Since Oct. 27, Sacramento have allowed Zach Collins, Chet Holmgren, Alperen Sengün, Anthony Davis, and Kevon Looney to all hit over steals. In fact, Collins, of the Spurs, had 3 steals against the Kings in their last matchup. Averaging 33.8 minutes per game, Jokic has a 68 percent hit rate. Coming off 35 minutes played against the Suns, this prop has a 71 percent hit rate when playing just above 35 minutes.
In 10 road games this year, Jokic is averaging 1 steal a game. Additionally, he'll matchup against Domantas Sabonis and a Kings team that's allowing 7.5 steals a game. While everyone is on Jokic points, I'm eyeing both his assists and steal lines.
If you're betting on tonight's game, I'm not fading Jokic, especially if Gordon and Murray are out tonight.
NBA Bet #4: Jalen Suggs O 1.5 3PTM (-140)
Jalen Suggs
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) December 2, 2023https://t.co/awCUIPklDZ pic.twitter.com/qbUfFM89R5
Season Stats?PPG:?13.1 |?FG:?45.4 %?| 3 PT:?37 %?| FT:?81.5 %?| REB:?3.8?| AST: 2.8?| STL:?1.9?| BLK:?0.6
This Evening, the Orlando Magic will attempt to extend their win streak to 10 games against the Brooklyn Nets. Jalen Suggs is healthy and back in the lineup tonight, next to Anthony Black. One of the best defensive teams in the league, Suggs is shooting 37 percent from long range, and putting up 13.1 points per game. Coming off 15-point performance against the Washington Wizards, Suggs has made over 1.5 three pointers in four straight games against the Wizards, Charlotte, and Boston.
If you're betting on the NBA, over three-pointers made is a prop that has a hit rate of 61 percent this season, and 80 percent in the last 10 matchups. Mainly a defensive guard, Suggs will face the Brooklyn Nets, who allow the 26th worst three-point attempts this season (14.1). For a Nets team that allows opponents to shoot 36.2 percent from long range, Terry Rozier, Dennis Schr?der, Malachi Flynn, Trae Young, Tyrese Maxey, and Cole Anthony have all hit over props.
Why I like this prop tonight
With Fultz on the injury list, Suggs will get the start alongside a Magic team with a ton of young talent. Although this prop hasn't hit as well on the road (43 percent, 40 percent in the last five games), you can't ignore the matchup against the Nets. While the Magic remain one of the worst three-point shooting teams in the league, I am not fading Suggs, who's been red hot beyond the arc.
Hitting two made three-pointers against Brooklyn Nov. 14, Suggs hit the over in 2 of his last 3 games played against the Nets. With injuries to Ben Simmons, the Nets most recently allowed Terry Rozier to hit 7-9 from the three-point line last matchup. Shooting over 47 percent in the last five games, I'm betting on Suggs to hit the over tonight.
BONUS BET: NBA Bet #4: Atlanta Hawks vs. Milwaukee Bucks O 253 Points (-112)
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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at Ballislife, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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]]>The NBA-In-Season Tournament continues tonight, in which there are eight games on the slate. Starting at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. eastern times, several teams will battle it out for the group play finale. Additionally, there will be two primetime games that will be aired on TNT. The Milwaukee Bucks (12-5, 4-4 away) will face the Miami Heat (10-7, 4-1 home) on the road. For the Western Conference, there will be yet another matchup between the Golden State Warriors (8-9, 5-3 away) and the Sacramento Kings (9-6, 4-1 home). With the Kings, Lakers, Bucks, and Pacers undefeated in the In-Season Tournament standings, what other teams will advance to the Quarterfinals?
Here you will find the NBA betting odds, stats, trends, player prop bets, and predictions for Tuesday, November 28. Below, you can find the odds and standings for the NBA In-Season Tournament.
NBA Daily Game Odds for 11/28
*Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook
- Bucks (-4) @ Heat O/U 228.5
- Bulls @ Celtics (-13.5) O/U 220
- Hornets @ Knicks (-12) O/U 221.5
- Hawks @ Cavaliers (-4) O/U 237
- Raptors @ Nets (-1.5) O/U 223.5
- Thunder @ Timberwolves (-3) O/U 228.5
- Rockets @ Mavericks (-4.5) O/U 228
- Warriors @ Kings (-1.5) O/U 236
NBA In-Season Championship Odds
*Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook
- Milwaukee Bucks: +280
- Los Angeles Lakers: +500
- Phoenix Suns: +600
- Sacramento Kings: +650
- Indiana Pacers: +800
- New York Knicks: +1200
- New Orleans Pelicans: +1400
- Boston Celtics: +1400
- Golden State Warriors: +1600
- Orlando Magic: +2000
NBA In-Season Tournament Standings
*Standings courtesy of ESPN
Eastern Conference Group A
*Eliminated from advancement
Indiana Pacers: 3-0
Cleveland Cavaliers: 2-1
Philadelphia 76ers: 2-2
Atlanta Hawks: 1-2
*Detroit Pistons: 0-4
Eastern Conference Group B
Milwaukee Bucks: 3-0
New York Knicks: 2-1
Miami Heat: 2-1
Charlotte Hornets: 1-2
*Washington Wizards: 0-4
Eastern Conference Group C
Orlando Magic: 3-1
Boston Celtics: 2-1
Brooklyn Nets: 2-1
*Toronto Raptors: 1-2
*Chicago Bulls: 0-3
Western Conference Group A
Los Angeles Lakers: 4-0
Phoenix Suns: 3-1
*Utah Jazz: 2-2
*Portland Trail Blazers: 1-3
*Memphis Grizzlies: 0-4
Western Conference Group B
New Orleans Pelicans: 3-1
Houston Rockets: 2-1
*Denver Nuggets: 2-2
*Dallas Mavericks: 1-2
*Los Angeles Clippers: 1-3
Western Conference Group C
Sacramento Kings: 3-0
Minnesota Timberwolves: 2-1
Golden State Warriors: 2-1
*Oklahoma City Thunder: 1-2
*San Antonio Spurs 0-4
NBA Bet #1: Anthony Edwards O 4.5 Assists (-140)
TOO TOUGH, AE. pic.twitter.com/qUC25NyhDV
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) November 27, 2023
Season Stats PPG: 26.6 | FG: 46.6 % | 3 PT: 37 % | FT: 87.6 % | REB: 5.9 | AST: 5.3 | STL: 1.4 | BLK: 0.4
Tonight, the Minnesota Timberwolves (12-4, 7-1 home) will host the Oklahoma City Thunder (11-5, 6-1 away). 2-1 in the In-Season Tournament standings, the Timberwolves will look to move on to the quarterfinals. Out of contention, the Thunder are 1-2 in tournament games.
If you're betting on the NBA, Anthony Edwards is having a career season, averaging 26.6 points per game, 5.3 assists, and 5.9 rebounds. A very good defensive Minnesota team, Edwards has plenty of athleticism and talent to pass the ball to. Tonight, Edwards gets the Thunder, who have a talented young core. Allowing the 21st most assists per game (26.8), Oklahoma City recently allowed Tobias Harris, DeMar Derozan, and Wiggins all to hit over assists props in the last week.
Over Edwards assist has hit nearly 70 percent this season, including four of the past five matchups against the Knicks, 76ers, Kings, and Grizzlies. A 55 percent rate last season, Edwards has elevated his game in multiple ways, and has a healthy surrounding core of Karl-Anthony Towns, Naz Reid, Rudy Gobert, Mike Conley, Kyle Anderson, and Nickeil Alexander Walker. Although Minnesota will be without defensive specialist Jaden McDaniels, Edwards hasn't had any issue dishing out dimes.
Why I'm confident in this prop tonight
-110 on Fan Duel, No. 5 has dished out over 4.5 assists in three of the last matchups against the Timberwolves. This evening, the Ant Man will get a prime matchup at home, where he averages 5.7 assists at the Target Center. Averaging 4.5 career assists against the Thunder, the forward is coming off 7 assist game against the Memphis Grizzlies. Handing out assists like they're candy, Edwards has 12 assists in the past two games, and is averaging 35.6 minutes, which is a very high volume.
If you're betting on the NBA, it's hard to fade this prop, given how well Edwards has been facilitating. Although point guard Mike Conley has stepped up in terms of distributing the ball, Edwards has over 4.5 assists in 8 of the last 10 games, and I'm not fading a relatively low number that's hit in four straight games. Even though Minnesota doesn't lead the league in assists, they score a good number of points off turnovers (17.4). I'm rolling with the over assists tonight. If this doesn't hit, the Thunder would have to completely shut down Edwards and their passing lanes defensively.
Oklahoma City is coming off a 127-123 loss against the Philadelphia 76ers. Overall, they allowed the 76ers to dish out 30 assists as a time, including 9 from Joel Embiid, and 5 from De'Anthony Melton.
NBA Bet #2: Bogdan Bogdanovic O 2.5 3PTM (-160)
Bogi is 5-5 from beyond the arc tonight
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) November 27, 2023
Season Stats PPG: 15.8 | FG: 46.7 % | 3 PT: 39.1 % | FT: 90.5 % | REB: 3 | AST: 2.5 | STL: 1.4 | BLK: 0.4
Tonight, the Atlanta Hawks (8-8, 5-3) will face the Cleveland Cavaliers (9-8, 4-5) on the road tonight. On the brink of tournament elimination (1-2), the Cavaliers are 2-1, just behind the Indiana Pacers.
If you're betting on the NBA, Bogdan Bogdanovic over 2.5 three pointers made is one of my favorite props of the night. If you watched the Hawks versus. Celtics, Bogdanovic absolutely torched Boston from long range. Mostly playing drop coverage, Boston was unable to step up around the screens to guard Bogdanovic, who finished with 23 points on 70 percent three-point shooting.
The Hawks will face the Cavaliers who are middle of the road in terms of defense. The one part of their defense that lacks? They allow the 25th worst three-point percentage among their opponents (38 percent). A true sniper from downtown, Atlanta has greatly enforced their long-distance shooting under head coach Quinn Snyder. A prop that's hit in three straight games, the guard hit over 2.5 made three pointers close to 70 percent this season. With the increase in threes, the Hawks guard certainly has exceptional playmakers in Trae Young and Dejounte Murray.
Bogdan Bogdanovic has been hot
Along with a three-game streak, Bogdanovic hit over 2.5 made threes in 9 of the last 10 games. Hitting over 50 percent last season, he's been able to snipe from downtown in 11 of the last 15 games. In fact, in his last matchup against Cleveland in mid 2023, he finished with three shots beyond the arc.
Heading into this matchup, Atlanta has the 8th best three-point percentage in the league (37.3) and is top ten in three-point attempts per game (37.5). Second in offense and total points (123.6), the Hawks guard is averaging 26.7 points in the month of November. After attempting 24 shots from deep in the last three matchups, I'm not fading this prop tonight. Although Cleveland's defense can be stifling at times, they haven't allowed a guard to hit over three long distance shots since Nov 15. Even with that, I'm riding the hot hand tonight.
NBA Bet #3: Fred VanVleet O 2.5 3PTM (-175)
Off to a hot start
— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) November 25, 2023
Rockets: 29
Nuggets: 19 pic.twitter.com/O6z99yI7w8
Season Stats PPG: 16.6 | FG: 38.6 % | 3 PT: 37.3 % | FT: 89.3 % | REB: 4.6 | AST: 9.4 | STL: 0.7 | BLK: 0.6
The Houston Rockets (8-6, 0-5 away) will matchup against the Dallas Mavericks (10-6, 4-2 home) on the road tonight. With Dallas eliminated from the tournament, Houston still remains alive with a 2-1 group play record.
If you're betting on the NBA, Fred VanVleet has been cooking with his new team. Averaging over 16 points a game, VanVleet has managed to hit 37 percent of his long-distance shots. Hitting 7 total threes in two games against the Grizzlies and Nuggets, the Houston guard will face a Dallas team that lacks strength defensively. Although they have the star power in Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic, the Mavericks rank 24th in opponent points per game (118.3) and allow opponents to shoot 36.5 percent from the three. He faces Dallas, who's allowed De'Aaron Fox, Cameron Payne, Dyson Daniels, and Terrance Mann to hit over their props.
Why I like this prop to hit against Dallas
A 71 percent hit rate this season, VanVleet has more than 2.5 three-pointer made in eight of the last ten games, and six of the last seven. Averaging 37.4 minutes with the Rockets, No. 5 has a 71 percent hit rate when he plays at least those exact number of minutes.
Given Houston has young talent with Smith Jr., Sengun, and Green, VanVleet ranks third in scoring behind Green and Segun. Averaging 13 three-point attempts in the last two matchups, he should cook again against the Mavericks. If you're torn on this prop, VanVleet made three long range shots against the Mavericks in late 2022. The guard nearly puts up 8 three pointers a game, which is more than 20 percent of the Rockets shots from deep.
BONUNS NBA Bet #4: Haywood Highsmith O 0.5 3PTM (-210) (Questionable against the Bucks)
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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at Ballislife, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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]]>NBA Daily Game Odds for 11/15
*Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook
Mavericks (-198) (-6) @ Wizards (+164): O/U 244.5
Celtics (-218) (-4) @ 76ers (+180): O/U 224.5
Bucks (-125)(-5) @ Raptors (+105): O/U 224.5
Knicks (-112) (-1) @ Hawks (-108): O/U 230.5
Magic (+102) @ Bulls (-122)(-1.5) : O/U 215.5
Timberwolves(+195) @ Suns (-238)(-6) O/U 224
Cavaliers (-485) (-10.5) @ Trail Blazers (+370): O/U 219
Kings (-102) @ Lakers (-118) (-1.5): O/U 236.6
8-game slate of Wednesday hoops
— NBA (@NBA) November 15, 2023Sixers, Celtics top 2 East seeds square off
DBook, KD, Beal take court together for first time
: Watch on ESPN and the NBA App
NBA Daily Parlay #1: +381 .5u
Bet #1: Kevin Durant O 3.5 Assists (-130)
Drew slam part
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) November 13, 2023pic.twitter.com/7iZWZiaDvn
Season Stats PPG: 30 | FG: 49.8 % | 3 PT: 42.8 % | FT: 85.1 % | REB: 7.1 | AST: 4.6 | STL: 0.9 | BLK: 1.2
Career Stats vs. Minnesota Timberwolves: PPG: 27.2 | FG: 50.8 % | 3 PT: 44.2 % | FT: 92.8 % | REB: 7.4 | AST: 4.2 | STL: 1 | BLK: 1.2
Tonight, the Phoenix Suns (4-6) will matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves (8-2) at home. With Bradley Beal and Devin Booker ready to go, Suns guard Eric Gordon is listed as a game time decision tonight. While Minnesota doesn't report any injuries, they've won five consecutive games. For the Suns, they are coming off back to back losses, against the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers.
In his first full year with Phoenix, Kevin Durant will receive more depth and talent in the lineup tonight. Averaging 4.6 assists this season, Durant, faces a very tough Timberwolves team. First in opponent points per game (102.9), Minnesota is an elite defensive team. They lead the league in opponent three-point percentage (31.5 percent), and are backed by Jaden McDaniels, Anthony Edwards, and rim protector, Ruby Gobert.
The Suns have their star players back
Scoring won't come easy for the Suns tonight, who are ranked middle of the pack in points per game (111.8). If you're betting on the NBA tonight, I'd like to point out Kevin Durant has been averaging over 3.5 assists, and that's mainly been without both Booker and Beal.
We all know Durant is a natural born scorer, but he's also notorious for making big plays. With talent back on the weak and strong side of the ball, It's hard to fade a prop thats hit in four straight games. For a Timberwolves team that allows on average 24.6 assists per game, Durant hit this prop 100 % percent in 2022-2023 against Minnesota. In March of 2023, Durant had 4 assists against Minnesota as a member of the Sun.
Why Kevin Durant can hit over 3.5 assists tonight
Overall, over 3.5 Durant assists hit the over in six of the last ten games, and four of the last time. A prop that hit over 70 percent last season, Kevin Durant certainly loves to dish the ball at home tonight. In the last ten home games, Durant over assists hit in 90 percent of the last ten games, and four of the last five. Although Phoenix isn't a particularly deep team, I trust that there will be enough ball movement between the new big 3.
If you look at the statistics against Minnesota in the last week, Cory Joseph, Kevin Looney, Dario Saric, Gary Payton II, Moses Moody, Scottie Barnes among others all hit over their prop lines. In the 2023-2024 campaign, Durant is averaging 36.7 minutes per game. In fact, this prop has a hit rate of 80 % when the forward plays over 35 minutes, and Durant is dishing out nearly five assists at home this year.
If you're betting on the NBA, your best bet is Kevin Durant over 3.5 assists.
Bet #2: Trae Young O .5 Steals (-235)
Trae Young buries a triple from downtown, Murray follows with a sneaky steal!
— NBA (@NBA) October 14, 2023
The Hawks are rolling early
Season Stats PPG: 24.4 | FG: 35.7 % | 3 PT: 29.4 % | FT: 89.9 % | REB: 2.9 | AST: 10.2 | STL: 1.6 | BLK: 0
Career Stats vs. New York Knicks: PPG: 26.3 | FG: 41.3 % | 3 PT: 34.6 % | FT: 83.2 % | REB: 3.2 | AST: 9.1 | STL: 1.3 | BLK: 0
The Atlanta Hawks (6-4) will matchup against Eastern Conference Rival New York Knicks (5-5) at home tonight. Trae Young will be back in the lineup after missing last matchup due to personal reasons. For the Knicks, RJ Barrett is a game time decision tonight. Without star Trae Young, the Hawks are coming off a 126-120 win over the Detroit Pistons, why the Knicks dropped their previous matchup to the Boston Celtics, 114-98.
If you're betting on the NBA, the Hawks are a top team that average 8.8 steals a game, in large part to Trae Young. Tonight, they face the Knicks who have the least turnovers in the NBA. In nine games this season, Trae Young has at least 1 steal in every single one of them. Averaging 1.6 steals per game, Young has a career average of 1.8 steals against New York, and has 6 steals in the past four games. Better yet, this prop hit 100 % in the past ten games, and and hit 72 percent of the time in the 2022-2023 season.
Why Trae Young can cover over .5 steals tonight
Tonight, Young gets a prime matchup at home, where over .5 steals has hit 100 percent in home games this year, and 90 % of the last ten games in Atlanta. Young, who's averaging 35.8 minutes per game, has nearly 1.8 steals in home games, and has a 100 percent prop hit rate when he hovers around 35 minutes played.
If you're betting on the NBA, it's hard to fade a prop that's hit the over in ten straight games. Most recently, the Knicks allowed LaMelo Ball, Tre Jones, Bones Hyland, Damian Lillard, CJ McCollum, Dyson Daniels, and Trae Young all to have at least one steal since Oct. 27.
In their last matchup in October 27, Trae Young finished with three steals.
Bet #3: Dallas Mavericks vs. Washington Wizards O 244.5 Points (-110)
The Dallas Mavericks (8-3) will face off against the Washington Wizards (2-8) on the road tonight. For Dallas, both Kyrie Irving and Maxi Kleber are game time decisions. On the Wizards side, guard Delon Wright is listed as out.
The Mavericks are 3-2 in their last five games, and the Wizards 1-4. These are two teams that have potent offenses, especially Dallas. Second in the league, the Mavericks are putting up 122.8 points per game. Although they lack a true identity and super star, the Wizards are 8th in total points per game (115.3).
If you're betting on the NBA, you're probably wondering why I am confident in the over. These are two of the worst defensive teams, both ranking in the bottom 25 in opponent points per game. If Kyrie Irving is able to suit up for tonight's game, I will be even more confident in my decision.
Why these teams can cover the over points scored
8-3 on the season, Dallas is 9-2-0 against totals, and the 2-8 Wizards 7-3-0. In their last ten matchups against each other, Washington holds a 6-4 win loss record, and the Over hit 7 of the last 10 games. Dallas is coming off four straight games that hit the over against the Pelicans, Clippers, and Raptors. For Washington, they are 3-2 versus totals in their last five games.
This is a shocking stat, the Wizards lead the NBA in pace (105.05), while the Mavericks rank 6th (102.14). Given the amount of high scoring on both sides, plus a higher pace, I am confident in this prop tonight. While Washington has emerged as one of the worst teams, Kyle Kuzma leads the team in scoring. Bilal Coulibaly, the 7th overall pick, should improve his game as the season goes on. For Dallas, they have stars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving lead the backcourt.
Although the model is leaning towards the under, I don't expect either team to play any sort of stellar defense tonight. My safest bet is the over here.
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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at Ballislife, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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]]>? The NBA Play-In Tournament is finally here. For the Eastern Conference, the 8th Seed, Atlanta Hawks (41-41, 17-24 Away) will face the 7th Seed Miami Heat (44-38, 27-14 Home).?The two teams will play tonight at 7:30 PM EDT at the Kaseya Center, located in Miami, Florida. If you’re looking to watch this game, the matchup will air on TNT.
?For the Western Conference, the 8th Seed Minnesota Timberwolves (42-40, 20-21 Away) will face the 7th seed Los Angeles Lakers (43-39, 23-18 Home). These two teams will play tonight at 10:00 PM EDT at Crypto.com Area, located in Los Angeles, California. In addition, the matchup will air on TNT. If you are looking for the best betting odds for the NBA Championship, here is information to know:
NBA Championship Odds:
Atlanta Hawks: +35000
Miami Heat: +25000
Minnesota Timberwolves: +30000
Los Angeles Lakers: +1800
Play-In Tournament Odds:
Hawks vs. Heat
Hawks: +170
Heat: -200
Spread: Heat -5, Hawks +5
Over/Under: 228
Timberwolves vs. Lakers?
Timberwolves: +295
Lakers: -360
Spread: Lakers -8.5, Timberwolves +8.5
Over/Under: 232.5
Team Recaps
Atlanta Hawks
?The Atlanta Hawks have 1 NBA Championship in 49 total appearances and won their only championship in 1958. The Hawks lost to the Miami Heat in last year’s First Round, and they are looking for revenge. Atlanta ranks 3rd in Points Per Game (118.4), 18th in Assists Per Game (25), 10th in Rebounds per Game (44.4), 22nd in Three-Point Shooting Percentage, and 26th in Opponent Points Per Game (118.1). After a 7-3 start to the Season, Atlanta was 17-20 by New Years Day. By the time February came along, the Hawks fired Head Coach Nate McMillan, who took them to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021.
In late February, former Head Coach of the Utah Jazz, Quin Snyder, signed a 5-year deal to become the next Head Coach of the Atlanta Hawks. Since Snyder’s debut against the Washington Wizard, the Hawks finished 10-11, and lost their last two games of the regular season. Although Atlanta lost to the Heat last season, the addition of guard Dejounte Murray should take some pressure of All-Star Guard, Trae Young. Although the Atlanta Hawks have two extremely talented guards, this team has been mediocre all season.
Strengths
?The Atlanta Hawks are a high scoring team, and they rank 3rd in the league in points per game. They are a very efficient team at the line, ranking 3rd in the league in Free-Throw Percentage (81.8), and 9th in Field Goal Percentage (48.1). The Hawks also rank 1st in the league in Field Goals Made (44.6).
It’s important to note Trae Young ranks 10th in the League in Points-Per Game with 26.2. In addition, Young is averaging over 10 Assists per game, which is 2nd in the league and a career high. Although Trae struggled shooting percentage wise, he is more efficient from the field and three-point range on the road.? Guard Dejounte Murray was acquired to help Guard Trae Young in the backcourt. He’s averaged 20.5 Points-Per-Game, 6.1 Assists, 5.3 Rebounds, and is shooting 46.4 percent from the field. Like Trae Young, Murray shoots better from the three-point on the road (36.2 percent).
Weakness
?The Atlanta Hawks can score, and sometimes numbers can be deceiving. Although Atlanta ranks 9th in Field Goal Percentage, they rank 21st in Three-Point Shooting (35.2). Given the league caters to the three-point shot, this is a huge disadvantage for this team. Furthermore, Trae Young is shooting 33.5 percent beyond the arc this season, compared to 38.2 percent last year. Apart from that, they are not a team that frequently gets to the free-throw line.
It’s no secret the Atlanta Hawks also have depth issues. If the Hawks want some decent three-point shooting, they will have to rely on guard Bogdan Bogdanovic, who is shooting 40 percent beyond the arc. One of the Hawks’ biggest weaknesses is their lack of defense. Ironically, this is a top scoring team that ranks 26th in Opponents points per game (118.1). Even Worse, they allow opponents to shoot 35.6 percent from the three-point line. Although Young has been the star of this team, Atlanta is open to a trade. According to CBS Sports, “Hawks front office has ‘green light’ to consider moving All-Start guard (Trae Young).”
Key Stats
?Trae Young is averaging 19.8 points and 9.8 assists against the Miami Heat this season. He’s been ice cold from the three-point, shooting 20 percent and 35.6 from the field against Miami.
?Dejounte Murray averages 18.5 points per game and 5 assists per game against the Heat. Much like Young, the Heat held Murray to 29.6 Three-point shooting, and 43.9 percent from the field.
?Center Clint Capela is averaging 13.3 Points and 9.7 Rebounds against the Heat this year.
Miami Heat
?The Miami Heat have total of 3 NBA Trophies in 24 appearances. Although the Heat finished as the #1 Seed in the East last season, they lost to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals.? Although Miami is 1st in the Southeast Division, they’ve regressed. They finished 44-38 and sit in the Play-In Tournament.? Stat- wise, the Heat rank last in the league in Points Per Game (109.5), 25th in Assists Per Game (23.8), 26th in Rebounds Per Game (40.6), and 26th in Three Point Percentage (34.8).
?Although Miami struggles in most of those categories, they are 2nd in the league in Opponent Points-Per Game (109.8), and Opponent Field Goal Attempts (83.2). The Heat started their season 12-15 and won 4 out of their 5 last regular season games. Although Miami has not performed to their expectations, Head Coach Erik Spoelstra has experience in the postseason, and Jimmy Butler (Playoff Jimmy) is known for his tough playoff performances. Given Kyle Lowry has been out, can Miami advance far given they do not have a true playmaker?
Strengths
?The Heat are one of the best defensive teams in the league. They do not allow many points per game, and they rank 3rd in the league in Field Goal Attempts (21.1). They also rank 8th in Steals Per-Game (7.0). In addition, they rank 6th in the league in Opponent Rebounds Per Game (41.8), and 2nd in the league in opponent field goal attempts (83.2). Regarding Rebounds, Miami ranks 1st in the league in Opponent Offensive Rebounds Per Game (8.9). Although they do not get to the free-throw line much, they make their shots when it matters. Miami is 2nd in the league in Free-Throw percentage (83.1). In addition, Miami handles the ball well, and does not commit as high of turnovers compared to the rest of the NBA.
Weakness
?Although Miami is a very good defensive team, they allow opponents to shoot 36.7 percent from the Three-Point, and 48.2 percent from the Field. They do not get to the free-throw line frequently and rank dead last in the league in points scored. In addition, the Heat do not shoot the ball well beyond the arc (34.4) and rank towards the bottom in Assists. Although Miami has stars in Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler, they lack a true point guard and playmaker. Tyler Herro is perfect as a 2 guard, and Gabe Vincent has been starting in place of Veteran Point guard Kyle Lowry.
Key Stats
?The Miami Heat won the regular season series 3-1 against the Atlanta Hawks.
?Jimmy Butler is averaging 25 points and 6.3 assists against the Hawks this season. He shot 100 percent from the Three-Point, and 63.2 percent from the Field in those games.
?Bam Adebayo averages 24.5 Points Per Game, 1.8 Steals, and 9.5 Rebounds against Atlanta. He’s also shooting 92.3 percent from the Free-Throw line.
?Guard Tyler Herro struggled in his 4 games against Atlanta. He’s averaging 14.8 points per game, 5.5 assists, and shooting 21 percent from the Three.??
Minnesota Timberwolves
?The Minnesota Timberwolves have a total of 11 playoff appearances and never won an NBA Championship. Furthermore, Minnesota lost to the #2 Seed Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA First Round last season. The Timberwolves rank 13th in Points Per Game (115.8), 8th in Assists Per Game (26.2), 23rd in Rebounds Per Game (44.4), 13th in Three-Point Shooting Percentage, and 18th in Opponent Points Per Game (115.8). The Wolves made some moves, acquiring Center Rudy Gobert in exchange for Malik Beasley, Patrick Beverly, Leandro Bolmaro, Walker Kessler, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2023 first-round pick, 2025 first-round pick, 2026 pick swap, 2027 first-round pick, and a 2029 first-round pick. You could make the argument Minnesota gave up too many assets for Gobert.
Minnesota hovered around the .500 mark all season. The Timberwolves shipped off D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt to the Lakers in a three-way trade with the Utah Jazz. Minnesota received Veteran Point Guard Mike Conley, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, 2024 2nd-round pick swap, 2025 2nd-round pick, and a 2026 2nd round pick. Minnesota has a record of 29-23 against teams in the Western Conference and will be without Rudy Gobert.? Also, Karl-Anthony Towns is on the injury report. In addition, the Timberwolves will be without forward Jaden McDaniels.
Strengths
?The Timberwolves are a middle-of the road team in many statistical categories. Although they hovered around the .500 mark, Minnesota finished the season 7-3 in their last 10 games. In those 10 games, they averaged 117 points per game, over 7 steals, nearly 44 rebounds, and 29 assists. The Wolves rank 4th in Blocks per game, however, with Gobert and Towns possibly out, this will affect the team. Anthony Edwards, Kyle Anderson, and Mike Conley will have to pick up the slack for this team, who does not have many strengths right now. If the Wolves lineup were healthy, there would be plenty of depth, especially at the Center position.
Weakness
?Minnesota is a depleted team after a disastrous last game of the Season. Rudy Gobert was sent home from the team, after throwing punches at teammate Kyle Anderson. In addition, Jaden McDaniels will be out for the rest of the season after punching a wall, resulting in a broken hand. Both McDaniels and Gobert are defensive players, and without them, this team could struggle.? ?Even with two big men, the Wolves rank 23rd in the league in Rebounds (41.9), and their point differential is 0.0. Even worse, Minnesota ranks 24th in opponent three-point percentage (36.9), and this team turns the ball over many times (14.9).
Key Stats
?The Minnesota Timberwolves won the regular season series 2-1 against the Los Angeles Lakers.
?Rudy Gobert is averaging 19.3 Points and 15.3 Rebounds against the Lakers this season. With him at, the Wolves will be at a defensive disadvantage.
?Anthony Edwards averages 19.7 Points Per Game, 2 Steals, and is shooting 43.5 percent from the Three-Point against the Lakers.
?Veteran Point Guard Mike Conley is averaging 17 Points Per Game and 8 Assists against LA this season. In addition, Conley is shooting 44.8 percent from the Three-Point in his last 10 games, and 48 percent from the Field.
Los Angeles Lakers
?The Los Angeles Lakers have 17 NBA Championships and 63 NBA Playoff Appearances. The Lakers are three years removed from an NBA Championship and missed the 2021-2022 playoffs entirely. It’s Darvin Ham’s first season, in which the Lakers did not get off to a great start.? Los Angeles started the season 2-9 and lost 5 in a row in the month of November. The Lakers rank 6th in Points Per Game (117.2), 15th in Assists (25.3), 6th in Rebounds (45.7), 25th in Three-Point Shooting Percentage, and 20th in Opponent Points Per Game (116.6).
In desperation, the Lakers traded for D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Malik Beasley. Although stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis endured injuries, Los Angeles finished 8-2 in their last 10 games. Over their last 10 games, this Lakers team is gelling nicely, shooting nearly 50 percent from the field. If Anthony Davis, LeBron James, and D’Angelo Russell suit up and are healthy, this team could make a serious run if they win tonight. Although they sit in the Play-In Tournament, this Lakers team is 18-9 since the NBA Trade Deadline.
Strengths
?The Lakers have a great amount of depth, particularly at the forward position. The addition of Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt gives Anthony Davis and LeBron James a great amount of support. Rui Hachimura’s playing good basketball as of late, and Vanderbilt is a guy who is a defensive player the Lakers needed. If Russell suits up, he has Dennis Schroder and Austin Reaves. As far as their shooting guards go, Malik Beasley is a nice 2 guard, in addition to Lonnie Walker IV, who’s proven he can put up stats in certain situations.
If the Lakers cannot make their three-point shots, they will get to the line. They currently rank 1st in the league in Free-Throw Attempts and are top 6th in Rebounding (45.7). In particular, the Lakers are 2nd in the league in Defensive Rebounds per game (35.7). LA is in the top 10 in field goal percentage, especially if Davis and LeBron are both in the Lineup. Also, it’s important to note, although the Lakers are not the best team on the defensive end, they are very good against opponent perimeter three-pointers (34.4 percent).
Weakness
?The Lakers have been hit with injuries all season, particularly to LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and D’Angelo Russell. One of their biggest weaknesses is the ability to shoot the three-ball, where they rank 25th at 34.6 percent. Although the Lakers get to the free-throw line quite frequently, they rank towards the bottom in field goal percentage (77.5). In addition, LA ranks 20th in opponents points per game (116.6) and does not force many turnovers (12.1).
Key Stats
?LeBron James averages 23 points, 8.5 Rebounds, and 5.5 Assists against Minnesota this season. The Wolves held LeBron to 22 percent three-point and 39.5 percent field goal shooting.
?Anthony Davis averages 38 points per game, 2 blocks, 1 steal, and 11 Rebounds per game against the Wolves. In addition, Davis shot 56 percent from the field during those 2 games.
?Guard Malik Beasley is averaging 14.4 Points and is shooting 38 percent from the three against Minnesota this year.
Predictions
Heat ML
Heat -5
Over
Lakers ML
Minnesota +8.5
Over
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Sara Jane is a full-time content creator, focusing on both college basketball, the NBA, NFL, and Writer of www.ebooksnet.com. Don’t forget to follow her on Twitter: @GGirlSports
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]]>
The 2018-19 All-American Elite Team, now published for the 25th consecutive season and on the www.ebooksnet.com platform for the fifth time, includes 41 of the nation’s best seniors, led by Mr. Basketball USA Isaiah Stewart of FAB 50 No. 3 La Lumiere (La Porte, La.).
Seventeen seniors and three juniors, including first five selection Sharife Cooper of FAB 50 No. 2 McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.), headline the 20-player overall first team.
A 30-player second team includes 24 additional seniors. Four talented juniors join one special sophomore and one outstanding freshman on the second team, as all underclassmen are eligible for selection. Last year’s Mr. Basketball USA, R.J. Barrett of Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.), re-classified up to the 2018 class after earning national sophomore player of the year honors in 2017.
This year’s 20-man first team includes two players who re-classified up from the 2020 class early in the school year: first five selection Anthony Edwards of Holy Spirit Prep (Atlanta) and Nico Mannion of Pinnacle (Phoenix, Ariz.). The second team includes another All-American honoree that re-classed up after the season ended: combo guard R.J. Hampton of Little Elm (Texas).
In the 25 seasons of publishing annual All-American teams (and on the retroactive teams dating back to the 1954-55 season), no freshman has ever made the first team.
Our national coach of the year is Carl Kremer of Moeller (Cincinnati, Ohio). He guided the Fighting Crusaders to back-to-back OHSAA Division I titles and a 49-game winning streak entering 2019-2020. In 2018, Moeller finished No. 16 in the FAB 50 and with that club graduating a strong senior class, the Fighting Crusaders exceeded expectations this season, finishing 29-0 and No. 7 in the FAB 50. Along the way, Moeller became the first unbeaten OHSAA D1 state champ since 1995 and Kremer won his fifth state title as coach.
Kremer, whose overall record now stands at 575-157, tied the reported state record with his fifth coaching state title at one program, which was first accomplished by Middletown’s Paul Walker and later Dru Joyce of St. Vincent-St. Mary (Akron, Ohio). Under Kremer’s leadership, Moeller also won state titles in 1999, 2003, and 2007. He’s the first coach from Ohio to earn national acclaim on our all-time list dating back to the 1969-70 season.
National Grassroots Editor Ronnie Flores selects this performance-based All-American team with input from Mr. Basketball USA panelists. It is chosen after the conclusion of the season, which makes the Elite All-American team more reflective of players who made state championship runs. This honors squad has been chosen in its current format since the 1994-95 season and is powered by www.ebooksnet.com for the fifth consecutive season. This team is chosen regardless of class and is not exclusive or preferential for seniors named to the Ballislife All-American Game. To check out who has played in the Ballislife All-American Game the past nine years, please visit ballislifeallamerican.com. To view archived All-American teams published under this format, please visit GrassrootsHoops.net.
2018-19 All-American First Team
First Five
G — Sharife Cooper, McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.) 6-0 Jr.
His father and travel ball coach Omar Cooper told Ballislife, “things will be different this year,” with regards to the Indians’ quest for their first GHSA state title. Dad ended up being right on the money, as McEachern had a storybook run to the GHSA Class 7A crown. As the catalyst for a 32-0 team, it wasn’t a hard choice to put Cooper on first team after the Indians went unbeaten against one of the best schedules in the country. A leader and clutch shot maker who can get to any spot on the floor, Cooper averaged 28.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 8.2 apg and 4.0 spg and was named MVP of the City of Palms Tournament and the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions. He teamed with senior Isaac Okoro to lead the Indians to nine wins over FAB 50 ranked clubs and three more against teams that were ranked at the time. Okoro (who was seriously considered for fourth five) and Cooper shared all-classification Player of the Year honors on the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s all-state team and Cooper was named the state’s Mr. Basketball by sandysspiel.com.
G — Cole Anthony, Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) 6-3 Sr.
The official runner-up to Isaiah Stewart for Mr. Basketball USA, Anthony is arguably the best guard to suit up for veteran coach Steve Smith since Brandon Jennings, who was the Mr. Basketball USA choice in 2008. Two years earlier, Oak Hill had another runner-up in Kevin Durant. Four Mr. Basketball USA Tracker panelists had Anthony as their top player of the year choice (and the other six had Stewart) after he averaged 18.5 ppg, 10.1 rpg and 10.2 apg and led Oak Hill to the GIECO Nationals semifinals and No. 10 FAB 50 ranking. Anthony played like the best guard in the country on the post-season all-star circuit with big-time showings at the McDonald’s All-American Game (14 points, on 7-of-11 shooting, five rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks) the Nike Hoop Summit (25 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists) and at the Jordan Brand Classic (25 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists). In fact, he’s the first player to sweep MVP honors of the major all-star events since first five selection Zach Randolph (Marion, Ind.) in 2000 when he turned the trifecta at McDonald’s, Nike Hoop Summit and the Nike Derby Festival Classic.
G — Anthony Edwards, Holy Spirit Prep (Atlanta, Ga.) 6-5 Sr.
There was plenty of excitement surrounding Holy Spirit Prep in the preseason and even though the team didn’t live up to preseason expectations, it doesn’t diminish Edwards’ individual brilliance. He used his combination of explosiveness, power and silk jump shooting to develop into the top shooting guard in the country and the No. 1 ranked player by at least one major scouting network. Edwards averaged 25 ppg, 9 rpg, 2 apg and 2 spg, but Holy Spirit Prep finished 15-14. He had 21 points at the Jordan Brand Classic and 12 points and 3 assists at the McDonald’s All-American Game. He’s staying home and will attend Georgia, where he’s the highest-rated incoming recruit to join the Bulldogs since 1979 second five choice Dominque Wilkins (Washington, N.C.).
F — Isaiah Stewart, La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) 6-9 Sr.
Went from underclass All-American honors last year to the highest individual honor a player can receive as this year’s Mr. Basketball USA. Not only did he lead a 30-1 team, he’s was the first player mentioned among elites by coaches and scouts when the question was asked “Who plays the hardest and gives the best effort every single time out?” Stewart’s Mr. basketball candidacy steadily rose, from appearing on six ballots in the preseason with 35 points and zero first or second place votes to appearing on all 10 Mr. Basketball Tracker ballots to edging Cole Anthony with six of the 10 first place votes to conclude the season. After averaging 18.1 ppg, 11.3 rpg, and 2.9 bpg while shooting 63 percent from the field, Stewart is the first-ever national player of the year choice to attend the University of Washington. He’s also the first choice from an Indiana program since Greg Oden of Indianapolis Lawrence North in 2006.
F — James Wiseman, Memphis East (Memphis, Tenn.) 7-0 Sr.
He was one of the final selections of the fourth five last season and jumps all the way up to the first five after showing what he could do on the national all-star game circuit. The nation’s top prospect in the 247Sports.com composite, Wiseman showed why he’s so highly-coveted among pro scouts with 13 points and 6 rebounds at the McDonalds All-American Game, 21 points and 6 rebounds at the Jordan Brand Classic and 6 blocked shots at the Nike Hoop Summit. For his high school team, he averaged 25.8 ppg, 14.8 rpg, and 5.5 bpg with both some dominant and pedestrian moments. Still, with his size, skill level and agility, he’s a cinch All-American among this crop of candidates. A long-time commit to Memphis, this year’s Tennessee’s AAA Mr. Basketball will play for 1990 first five choice Penny Hardaway (Memphis Treadwell).
Second Five
G — Nico Mannion, Pinnacle (Phoenix, Ariz.) 6-3 Sr.
Even though he re-classed up to 2019, he completed one of the most spectacular careers in Arizona history, leading Pinnacle to consecutive AIA Class 6A state titles. A three-time all-state selection by the Arizona Republic, Mannion improved his statistical output in each of three seasons and was a two-time Gatorade State Player of the Year choice. For his career, he averaged 24.6 ppg and scored 2,095 points. As a senior, Mannion averaged 30.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 6.2 apg and 2.8 spg for a 28-3 club that only lost one game in-state and handed FAB 50 No. 14 Shadow Mountain its first in-state loss in 91 games. The son of former NBA player Pace Mannion, the scoring point guard stepped up in big games, and won the Shadow Mountain game on a contested, buzzer-beating 3-pointer. Goes down as one of the best players ever to come out of Arizona along with 1996 Mr. Basketball USA Mike Bibby of Shadow Mountain and 1985 third five selection Sean Elliot of Tucson Cholla. Like those two former NBA standouts, Mannion will play at Arizona.
G — Scottie Lewis, Ranney School (Eatontown, N.J.) 6-5 Sr.
We don’t often go against credible local consensus, but we had to make a decision of what to do with the dynamic Ranney School duo that led the program to its first ever New Jersey Tournament of Champions title. Lewis’ teammate Bryan Antoine received more local honors, but it was Lewis that was a bit more impressive against his peers in various elite settings. At the McDonald’s All-American Game, Lewis showed he’s one of the best two-way performers in the country with scoring, intensity and defensive ability, as he went for 10 points and four steals. Lewis also played well at the Nike Hoop Summit and was noted for his big play ability for his high school team. The Florida-bound wing guard had 20 points and 11 rebounds in the TOC title game and finished his four-year career with 1,874 career points. On the season, Lewis sported averages of 17.5 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 3.5 apg, 2.7 spg and 1.5 bpg for the No. 6 team in the FAB 50.
F — Precious Achiuwa, Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 6-9 Sr.
One of the most highly-skilled and multi-dimensional frontcourt players in the country, Achiuwa made the most of his one season in the Eagles’ program after earning underclass All-American honors at St. Benedict’s (Newark, N.J.) as a junior. The younger brother of former St. John’s forward God’sgift Achiuwa, Precious only put up modest numbers (14 ppg, 7 rpg), but those actually led a talent-laden team that finished 22-3 and ranked No. 4 in the FAB 50. He displayed versatile talent, with the ability to finish effectively with both hands and guard multiple positions. On the post-season all-star circuit is where Achiuwa made a favorable impression and increased his All-American candidacy, going for 22 points and nine rebounds at the McDonald’s All-American Game and 15 points and 11 rebounds at the Nike Hoop Summit. Teammate Cade Cunningham was also considered for first team and just missed making the fourth five.
F — Trendon Watford, Mountain Brook (Birmingham, Ala.) 6-9 Sr.
Terrific big-game performer and one of the best winners in the 2019 class closed out his career as one of Alabama’s most decorated players ever. His consistency, versatility and underrated shooting (career .392 3-point) led Mountain Brook to a 31-3 mark and No. 5 FAB 50 ranking this year and three consecutive AHSAA Class 7A state crowns. Turned in a signature 38-point, 12-rebound performance against IMG Academy to hand that FAB 50 No. 1 club its only loss of the season and closed out his senior season with averages of 23.7 ppg, 11.8 rpg, 3.6 apg and 2.5 bpg. Watford finished with four-year career totals of 3,237 points and 1,604 rebounds and his five-year totals include 1,909 rebounds, the all-time state record over 2005 third five selection Richard Hendrix of Athens. The undecided recruit participated in the McDonald’s, Jordan Brand and Ballislife All-American Games.
F — Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) 6-9 Sr.
The son of 1996 second five selection Lester Earl of Glen Oaks (Baton Rouge, La.) is the most highly honored player on the most talent-laden team in the country. As a result of his statistical output and strong finish at GEICO Nationals, Robinson-Earl gets the nod on first team over North Carolina-bound teammate Armando Bacot (who was seriously considered for fourth five) off a team that has at least nine D1 recruits on its roster and is the first ever to produce three McDonald’s All-Americans (Arizona-bound forward Josh Green). The Villanova-bound combo forward led the 31-1 team in scoring (17.1 ppg) and rebounding (9.5 rpg) and had 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists in the GEICO Nationals championship game victory over La Lumiere (Ind.) to deliver the Ascenders their first national championship in any sport. Robinson-Earl averaged 14 ppg and seven rpg and was singled out for his terrific defense in three games at GEICO Nationals and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
Third Five
G — Joe Girard III, Glens Falls (N.Y.) 6-2 Sr.
Had an even more impressive high school career than DeWitt Christian Brothers Academy’s Greg Paulus, who was the nation’s top Grid-Hooper in 2004-2005 who was the Gatorade National Player of the Year in football and New York’s Mr. Basketball during that winter. Girard is also a Mr. Basketball recipient after averaging a nation-leading 48.6 ppg as a senior when he led Glen Falls to a 29-1 record and the New York Federation Class B title. He hit 195 three-pointers as a senior and a game-winning shot with three seconds remaining in overtime to deliver Glen Falls its first state title. He shattered the all-time state scoring mark (2,846 points) held by 2009 first five selection Lance Stephenson of Brooklyn Lincoln, finishing with 4,329 career points (not including the 434 he scored as an eighth-grader) while averaging an incredible 42.4 ppg in his 102-game four-year career. Included in that point total are 618 3-pointers and 1,065 free throws. Unlike Paulus, he won’t be trying his hand at college basketball first, but like him will play quarterback at Syracuse after accounting for 8,414 yards and 130 touchdowns in his career.
G — Bryan Antoine, Ranney School (Eatontown, N.J.) 6-4 Sr.
Teammate and second five selection Scottie Lewis gets a bit more national acclaim, but it can be argued Antoine is the more accomplished high school player. After all, he led the 31-3 club with a scoring average of 20.9 ppg while also contributing 4.0 rpg, 2.7 apg and 2.8 spg. Antoine was also extremely efficient on offense, scoring at a 60 percent clip from the field, 39 percent from 3-point range and 84 percent from the free throw line while never shooting more than 18 field goal attempts in a single game. It’s no wonder the Villanova-bound shooting guard was the NJ.com State Player of the Year and was a model of consistency in helping Ranney School become the first Shore Conference program to win the TOC crown. Along the way, the McDonald’s All-American became the all-time scoring leader in the Shore Conference with 2,499 points and helped the Panthers win 103 games in four seasons.
F — E.J. Liddell, Belleville West (Belleville, Ill.) 6-7 Sr.
One of the most highly honored players in the nation, Liddell’s production led to winning in the highest classification of Illinois basketball (IHSA Class 4A). The powerful and no-nonsense inside presence had 24 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists in the 4A state title game win over Evanston after dominating FAB 50 ranked Chicago Curie in the semifinals with 14 points, 11 rebounds, five assists and four blocks. He had that type of impact on many big games with season highs of 42 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 blocks while shooting 63 percent from the field. Belleville West’s all-time leader in points (2,508), rebounds (1,004) and blocks (500), he’s also third in assists (322) despite his rugged inside nature. The Ohio St. recruit averaged 20.2 ppg, 9.3 rpg, and 3.8 bpg and is the second back-to-back state Mr. Basketball, following in the footsteps of two-time Mr. Basketball USA finalist Jabari Parker of Chicago Simeon (2012-13). He joins Parker and fellow elite first teamers Derrick Rose (2007) and Shaun Livingston (2004) as lead players on back-to-back IHSA major division state championship teams.
F — Vernon Carey Jr., University School (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) 6-10 Sr.
Although the powerful and skilled big man didn’t have quite the season he did during his breakout junior campaign for the Sharks when he earned National Junior Player of the Year honors, Carey was the best player in Florida for the second consecutive season. The two-time Florida Mr. Basketball also repeated as the Sun Sentinel’s Broward County Player of the Year and was named to the McDonald’s All-American and Jordan Brand Classic teams. The son of a former NFL offensive lineman, Carey averaged 21.1 ppg and 9 rpg for a 27-4 team that repeated as FHSAA Class 5A state champs. He did not play in the state semifinals, championship game, or the post-season all-star circuit because of a nagging ankle injury. The Duke-bound power forward gutted it out at GEICO Nationals and had 15 points and 11 rebounds in a first round loss to FAB 50 No. 4 Montverde Academy.
F — Onyeka Okongwu, Chino Hills (Calif.) 6-9 Sr.
He’s one of the most highly acclaimed and honored players in the country despite not being selected for the McDonald’s or Jordan Brand Classic. Okongwu is known best for helping an already legendary Huskies club go 35-0 to capture the 2016 FAB 50 national championship when the Big O was a 14-year old freshman. After Melo Ball (another 14-year old starter on that team) left school, Okongwu became more of a focal point of the offense and simply dominated California ball because his impeccable defensive instincts and timing never wavered. He put together two memorable playoff runs to finish his career with three CIF state titles and is a two-time Cal-Hi Sports Mr. Basketball, the first post player to win in back-to-back seasons since first five selection Tyson Chandler (2000-2001). For the season, he averaged 27 ppg on 66 percent shooting, 11.0 r.pg, 4.0 apg, 4.3 bpg and 1.3 spg, including marks of 30 ppg and 5.5 bpg in 10 post-season games. The USC recruit recorded a 31-3 post-season mark in addition to helping his Compton Magic travel club (along with fourth teamer Evan Mobley) capture a mythical grassroots national title.
Fourth Five
G — Jahmius Ramsey, Duncanville (Texas) 6-4 Sr.
Transfer from IMG Academy made most of his return to the Lone Star State, leading the Panthers to the UIL Class 6A state crown, their first since 2007. Duncanville began the season 7-7, but when the players realized it needed to re-group from the coaches’ preseason voices and to focus on getting the ball to Ramsey, it turned around their season. Duncanville finished the season with 25 consecutive wins, as Ramsey scored 26 points in a big regional final win over Denton Guyer and 22 points in the state title game win over Houston Klein Forest in the title game. For the season, the athletic and muscular power guard averaged 18.9 ppg, 5.2 rpg, and 2.9 apg and was chosen TABC All-State in addition to being named Dallas Morning News Player of the Year over last year’s choice, second teamer Darius Garland. The Texas Tech recruit was team MVP at the Ballislife All-American Game and also played at the Jordan Brand Classic, where he had 15 points, six rebounds and two steals.
G — Cassius Stanley, Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) 6-5 Sr.
The unofficial runner-up to third teamer Onyeka Okongwu for Cal-Hi Sports Mr. Basketball honors, perhaps no player on the elite team used his senior year performance more to gain post-season national acclaim. After sitting out part of his junior season because of transfer, Stanley stepped up as a senior to lead Sierra Canyon to its second consecutive CIF Open state title and a 32-3 record. An improved jump shot and offensive decision-making helped Stanley average 19 ppg, 6 rpg, and 3 apg for a talented team featuring three all-state players that finished No. 9 in the FAB 50. The Duke-bound shooting guard earned a slew of local honors and was selected for the Ballislife All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic, the latter in which he scored 16 points. One of the best leapers ever in California history, this three-time CIF state champion was player of the year on the all-CIFSS Open Division team, on the L.A. Dailey News all-region team and from SoCal Varsity, which covers a vast portion of Southern California.
F — Jalen Johnson, Nicolet (Glendale, Wis.) 6-7 Jr.
The last few spots on the elite team were tough choices, but we decided to honor a couple of juniors whose talent is too great to ignore. In the case of Johnson, team success makes him a slam dunk pick, after he led the Knights to a 27-1 mark and No. 24 FAB 50 ranking. There is a plethora of underclass talent in Wisconsin, including second team All-American Patrick Baldwin and six of the top 10 players of the Associated Press all-state team, but Johnson is already considered the state’s most prodigious talent. The A.P. State Player of the Year averaged 19.7 ppg, 11.7 rpg and 5.9 apg for the WIAA D2 state champs and also led the team in steals while recording seven triple doubles. The versatile forward was at his best in the big games, as he went for 20 points, 20 rebounds and four assists in the 67-52 state title game over Milwaukee Washington and averaged 15.5 rpg in two state tournament games.
F — Matt Hurt, John Marshall (Rochester, Minn.) 6-9 Sr.
It was an honored-filled season for a player who will join third five member Vernon Carey and fellow fourth five selection Cassius Stanley at Duke in the fall. He rates with Carey and first team choices Isaiah Stewart and James Wiseman as the nations’ top-rated interior prospects and he was as productive as any big man in the country, averaging 36.8 ppg, 12.5 rpg, and 4.8 apg for a 22-7 club. For his efforts, Hurt was named both the Associated Press and Gatorade State Player of the Year. The McDonald’s All-American finished his season with 1,072 points and his decorated high school career with a Minnesota Large Schools record 3,812 points.
C — Evan Mobley, Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.) 7-0 Jr.
For a portion of the season, this talented seven-footer was in the thick of the Mr. Basketball USA race along with Isaiah Stewart and Cole Anthony, but his candidacy suffered when the Eagles underachieved in sectional and regional play. Still, it’s impossible to ignore his vast potential, production and slew of local honors. After some injuries and growing pains slowed him down during his first two seasons, he had a breakout season for a club that played a terrific national schedule and finished No. 39 in the FAB 50 at 25-6. The agile center with great patience and a high skill level averaged 19.2 ppg, 10.4 rpg, 4.7 bpg, and 3.3 apg and bolstered his All-American candidacy with a 13-point, 3-block performance in a win over Memphis East and first five choice James Wiseman. The younger brother of USC-bound and McDonald’s All-American Isaiah Mobley, Evan beat out his older brother for player of the year honors by the Riverside Press Enterprise and was named state junior player of the year over second teamer Jalen Green.
2018-19 All-American Second Team
F — Armando Bacot, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) 6-10 Sr.
F — Patrick Baldwin Jr., Hamilton (Sussex, Wis.) 6-8 Soph.
F — Emoni Bates, Lincoln (Ypsilanti, Mich.) 6-8 Fr.
G — Christian Braun, Blue Valley Northwest (Overland Park, Kan.) 6-5 Sr.
G — Cade Cunningham, Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 6-5 Jr.
F — Eric Dixon, Abington (Pa.) 6-8 Sr.
G — Jalen Green, San Joaquin Memorial (Fresno, Calif.) 6-5 Jr.
G — R.J. Hampton, Little Elm (Texas) 6-5 Jr.
G — Jaelen House, Shadow Mountain (Phoenix, Ariz.) 6-1 Sr.
G — Josiah James, Porter-Gaud (Charleston, S.C.) 6-7 Sr.
F — D.J. Jeffries, Olive Branch (Miss.) 6-7 Sr.
G — Rylon Jones, Olympus (Salt Lake City, Utah) 6-0 Sr.
G — Keyshaun Langley, Southwest Guilford (High Point, N.C.) 6-1 Sr.
F — Chris Ledlum, Northfield Mt. Hermon (Gill, Mass.) 6-7 Sr.
G — Tyrese Maxey, South Garland (South Garland, Texas) 6-3 Sr.
F — Jaden McDaniels, Federal Way (Federal Way, Wash.) 6-10 Sr.
G — Justin Moore, DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.) 6-4 Sr.
F — Wendell Moore Jr., Cox Mill (Concord, N.C.) 6-6 Sr.
G — Casey Morsell, St. John’s College (Washington, D.C.) 6-5 Sr.
G — Paul Mulcahy, Gill St. Bernard’s (Gladstone, N.J.) 6-5 Sr.
C — Zeke Nnaji, Hopkins (Minnetonka, Minn.) 6-11 Sr.
G — Isaac Okoro, McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.) 6-5 Sr.
F — Donta Scott, Imhotep Charter (Philadelphia, Pa.) 6-7 Sr.
G — Jalen Suggs, Minnehaha Academy (Minneapolis, Minn.) 6-3 Jr.
C — Oscar Tshiebwe, Kennedy Catholic (Hermitage, Pa.) 6-8 Sr.
F — C.J. Walker, Oak Ridge (Orlando, Fla.) 6-8 Sr.
F — Anton Watson, Gonzaga Prep (Spokane, Wash.) 6-7 Sr.
F — Romeo Weems, New Haven (Mich.) 6-7 Sr.
F — Kahlil Whitney, Roselle Catholic (Roselle, N.J.) 6-7 Sr.
F — Samuell Williamson, Rockwall (Texas) 6-6 Sr.
National Coach of the Year: Carl Kremer, Moeller (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Related: 2018-19 Underclass All-American Team | 2018-19 Mr. Basketball USA: Isaiah Stewart
Note: ESPN selections 2010-2012; EA SPORTS selections 2003-2009; Student Sports selections prior to 2003; Selections are based on high school accomplishment, not future college/pro potential, and are reflective of those that lead their teams to state championships. The editors of www.ebooksnet.com do not knowingly select fifth-year players, and those ineligible due to age or academics, Mr. Basketball USA or to its various All-American teams.
Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores
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Over the years, there have been two tried and true factors in determining individual accolades in elite high school basketball. Those two factors are on-court production and winning and this is clearly reflected in the results of the final 2018-19 Mr. Basketball USA Tracker powered by www.ebooksnet.com.
Isaiah Stewart, a 6-foot-9 senior forward, led La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) to a perfect 28-0 regular season mark and a No. 3 finish in the FAB 50 with a 30-1 overall mark. Stewart closed strong and the national all-star game circuit clearly helped his candidacy after he trailed point guard Cole Anthony of national power Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) by four points (84 to 80) in the previous Mr. Basketball USA Tracker.
Stewart went from two first place votes (10 points are awarded for a first place vote) in the second-to-last tracker to leading the pack with six first place votes and two second place votes to out-pace Anthony. The North Carolina-bound point guard finished with four first place votes, one second place vote and 84 overall points, nine less than the Pac-12's premier 2018-19 recruit. Stewart and Anthony were the only candidates to appear on all 10 panelists' ballots.
In addition to the talent and production level of Stewart and Anthony, two other happenings shaped this season's national player of the year race. They were the injuries to Duke-bound big man Vernon Carey Jr., last year's National Junior Player of the Year from University School (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) and the emergence of juniors Evan Mobley and Sharife Cooper. Carey was third in last season's final tracker behind eventual Mr. Basketball honoree R.J. Barrett and Zion Williamson. After missing the state championship game, the University School standout also did not play in the McDonald's All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic because of a bothersome ankle injury. In this year's final balloting, Carey appeared on only five ballots and finished with only one vote higher than sixth place for 25 total points.
Mobley, a seven-foot junior from Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.), was the leading candidate along with Anthony at one point during the 2018-19 season. Cooper, meanwhile, built his resume all season long as the catalyst for a McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.) team that finished 32-0 and No. 2 in the FAB 50. Against tough competition, including victories over eight teams that finished FAB 50 ranked, Cooper averaged 28.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 8.2 apg, and 4.0 spg while going over 40 points four times. His production was rewarded, as Cooper received one second place vote and finished with 38 points while appearing on nine ballots. It seems, however, that McEachern's absence from GEICO Nationals and not being able to evaluate Cooper (and to an extent Mobley) against some of the other top national player of the year candidates on the all-star circuit hurt his candidacy.
GEICO Nationals and the post-season all-star games is where Stewart took advantage of his opportunity. The powerfully built "traditional four" averaged 17.7 ppg and 10.0 rpg as La Lu advanced to the championship game, where if fell to eventual FAB 50 No. 1 IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.). In the GEICO Nationals semifinals, Stewart had 14 points and 16 rebounds as La Lumiere defeated Anthony and Oak Hill Academy, 58-57, in a game in which Anthony missed 12 of his 16 shots from the field and finished with 11 points.
On the season, Stewart averaged 18.1 ppg, 11.3 rpg and over 3 blocks while shooting 60 percent from the field. Anthony averaged 18.5 ppg, 10.1 rpg and 10.2 apg and led Oak Hill to a 33-5 record.
Anthony turned in MVP performances at McDonald's, Jordan Brand Classic as well as the Nike Hoop Summit. Stewart was also Impressive at McDonald’s (16 points, 8-11 FG, 5 rebounds) and Jordan Brand Classic (16 points, 9 rebounds) drawing raves from peers and coaches alike.
"Isaiah Stewart gets the No. 1 ranking, as he stepped and did it when it counted," said panelist Clark Francis of the Hoop Scoop. "That's what good players are supposed to do. Does he have the most potential in his class? Maybe not, but baed on merit he's the only guy that stepped up and deserved it over Evan Mobley."
In all, 24 candidates earned recognition as a national player of the year candidate in the final, expanded tracker. The panel has made it clear, however, that this year's eventual Mr. Basketball USA honoree will emerge from the two most productive players when combining all the elements that make up a single season (regular season, post-season, GIECO Nationals, all-star events).
Editor's Note: Click on the "+" sign next to each player's number to view how many first, second, third or fourth place votes he got and his overall point total. Preseason tracker results are also listed ("Prev.").
| Rank | Prev. | Name | High School | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | Isaiah Stewart (10) | La Lumiere (IN) | 6 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 93 |
| 2 | 1 | Cole Anthony (10) | Oak Hill (VA) | 4 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 84 |
| 3 | 3 | Evan Mobley (8) | Rancho Christian (CA) | 0 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 55 |
| 4 | 4 | James Wiseman (9) | Memphis East (TN) | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 54 |
| 5 | 5 | Anthony Edwards (8) | Holy Spirit (GA) | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 44 |
| 6 | 8 | Sharife Cooper (9) | McEachern (GA) | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 38 |
| 7 | 7 | Scottie Lewis (8) | Ranney School (NJ) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 35 |
| 8 | 6 | Vernon Carey (5) | University School (FL) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 25 |
| 9 | 9 | Precious Achiuwa (7) | Montverde Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 22 |
| 10 | 10T | Onyeka Okongwu (4) | Chino Hills (CA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 18 |
| 11 | 10T | Nico Mannion (3) | Pinnacle (AZ) | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 17 |
| 12T | 12 | Cade Cunningham (3) | Montverde Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 |
| 12T | 14 | Trendon Watford (1) | Mountain Brook (AL) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 11 |
| 14 | NR | Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (2) | IMG Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 9 |
| 15 | NR | Armando Bacot (1) | IMG Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 |
| 16T | NR | Jalen Johnson (2) | Nicolet (WI) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| 16T | NR | Jaden McDaniels (1) | Federal Way (WA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| 18 | NR | Greg Brown (1) | Vandegrift (TX) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| 19T | NR | Patrick Baldwin (1) | Hamilton (WI) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| 19T | NR | R.J. Hampton | Little Elm (TX) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| 21T | NR | Jonathan Kuminga (1) | Our Savior (NY) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| 21T | 16T | Khalil Whitney (1) | Roselle Catholic (NJ) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| 23T | 15 | Jalen Green (1) | San Joaquin Memorial (CA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| 23T | 16T | Dashien Nix (1) | Simply Fundamental (NV) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
2018-19 Mr. Basketball USA Tracker Panel
Paul Biancardi, ESPN National Director of Basketball Recruiting
Frank Burlison, BurlisonOnBasketball.com Publisher
Van Coleman, TheBasketballChannel.net VP of Content
Ronnie Flores, www.ebooksnet.com National Grassroots Editor
Clark Francis, Hoop Scoop Editor & Publisher
Bob Gibbons, All-Star Sports
Jerry Meyer, 247Sports.com Director of Scouting
Scott Phillips, NBC Sports National College Basketball Writer
Patrick Stanwood, Patrick Stanwood Basketball
Dinos Trigonis, Fullcourt Press Editor & Publisher
About Basketball USA Tracker Panel
www.ebooksnet.com's panel of 10 experts, which includes six McDonald’s All-American selection committee members, casts its vote for the top national player of the year candidates. Each panelist lists his top seven candidates regardless of class. The votes are then tabulated on a 10-point scoring system with a first-place vote equaling 10 points, a second-place vote earning nine points and down to four points for a seventh-place vote. The number in parenthesis refers to the numbers of ballots on which a player appeared and previous rankings refers to position in the previous tracker.
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]]>Compiled by Ronnie Flores
RELATED: All-Time FAB 50 No. 1s | Final East Top 20 | Final Southeast Top 20 | Final Midwest Top 20 | Final Southwest Top 20 | Final West Top 20 | Each State's Highest Ranked Team (1988-2019) | FAB 50: All-Time Preseason No. 1's | Final 2017-18 FAB 50 | Final 2016-17 FAB 50 | Final 2015-16 FAB 50 | Final 2014-15 FAB 50 | Final 2013-14 FAB 50 | Final 2012-13 FAB 50
Note: Preseason ranking in parenthesis; *Indicates forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Indicates default wins/losses not included; ***Indicates foundation games not included.
1. (4) IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) 31-1
The Ascenders made most of their second appearance at GEICO Nationals, winning three games over teams that came into the event ranked FAB 50 top 10: No. 9 Sunrise Christian Academy (65-50), No. 3 Montverde Academy (74-73) and previous No. 1 La Lumiere (66-55). This year’s roster and most of the coaching staff was not around in 2017 when IMG Academy lost in the first round, but coach Sean McAloon and his players used that GEICO loss as motivation. Those three victories gave the Ascenders six victories over teams that finished in the Top 12, as compared to two for No. 2 McEachern. It was a close decision but the quality of victories and the nature in which the Ascenders closed their season give them the nod for the No. 1 spot over the Indians. Junior Jayden Springer (15.6 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 4.0 apg) averaged 21.3 ppg in the three GIECO victories and was surrounded by elite talent across the board, including point guard Noah Farrakhan (7.4 ppg, 4.5 apg), Villanova-bound Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (17.1 ppg, 9.5 rpg), North Carolina-bound Armando Bacot (14.5 ppg, 9.1 rpg) and Arizona-bound Josh Green (16.6 ppg, 4.0 apg). Robinson-Earl, Bacot and Green are the first trio of teammates ever named McDonald’s All-Americans.
2. (16) McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.) 32-0
The Indians completed a magical season with a CHSA Class 7A state crown, which eluded them the previous two seasons and prevented a high final ranking. McEachern defeated No. 41 Meadowcreek in the state final, 62-54, as point guard Sharife Cooper battled foul trouble to finish with 20 points, while Auburn-bound Isaac Okoro finished with 16 points, four rebounds and four assists. McEachern’s season included titles at the City of Palms Classic and the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions, not to mention eight victories over FAB 50 ranked teams. The highest ranked team it ended up beating (No. 5 Mountain Brook by a 50-29 margin) was the one team that IMG Academy lost to. That was a significant positive in McEachern’s resume, and at least one long-time poll did move the Indians up to No. 1 after GEICO Nationals even though it didn’t play, but it wasn’t enough for them to be elevated in the FAB 50. While IMG Academy defeated No. 3 La Lumiere and No. 4 Montverde Academy and No. 8 DeMatha Catholic, the next highest ranked team the Indians beat was No. 11 Sunrise Christian Academy. McEachern beat them in overtime, while IMG beat them 65-50. Regardless it was a terrific season for coach Mike Thompson’s club and had it decided to enter GEICO Nationals and won the tournament, there’s little doubt McEachern would have challenged 1978-79 Southwest (Macon), the only Peach State club to finish No. 1 in the country, for the title of greatest team ever from Georgia. As it stands, McEachern is the state’s highest-rated ever team in the FAB 50 era.
3. (6) La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) 30-1
The Lakers were gunning for their second GEICO Nationals crown in three years (they finished No. 2 in the FAB 50 in 2017), but their goal of an unbeaten mythical FAB 50 crown came up one game short. La Lumiere simply did not shoot well enough from the field to hold off IMG Academy’s stable of athletes and perhaps depth also played a role (four starters played 32 minutes in that GEICO Nationals Championship Game loss). That game essentially was for the FAB 50 crown, as the Lakers defeated No. 10 Oak Hill Academy, 58-57, in the GEICO Nationals semifinals and needed two overtimes to outlast No. 23 Bishop Gorman, 74-69, in the quarterfinals. The Lakers defeated Bishop Gorman earlier in the season, 67-54, pounded No. 8 DeMatha Catholic, 73-50, at the Hoophall Classic, defeated No. 11 Sunrise Christian Academy, 74-52, and had a close scare (53-52) against No. 28 Wasatch Academy. Led by Washington-bound Isaiah Stewart (18.1 ppg, 11.3 rpg, 2.9 bpg) and leading scorer, Kentucky-bound Keion Brooks (20.1 ppg, 7.5 rpg), La Lumiere’s two biggest regular season victories came against No. 4 Montverde Academy. Although its ultimate goal came up just one game short, La Lumiere had another terrific season as it reached the title game of GEICO Nationals for the third time in four seasons.
4. (1) Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 22-3
The top-ranked team in the preseason and the 2018 FAB 50 national champions, Montverde was one quarter away from getting an opportunity to play for another mythical national crown. The Eagles had a 16-point lead entering the fourth quarter against IMG Academy, but didn’t handle the Ascender’s full-court press well and lost the game on missed jumper that led to a long rebound and the game-winning fast-break dunk by IMG Academy’s Jeremiah Robinson-Earl with five seconds remaining. The gut-wrenching 74-73 loss prevented the Eagles from making the GEICO Nationals title game for the eighth time in nine appearances. The only other losses for the Eagles came against No. 3 La Lumiere. Led by McDonald’s All-American Precious Achiuwa (14 ppg, 7.2 rpg) and top-notch junior Cade Cunningham (11.4 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 5.5 apg), Kevin Boyle’s deep club defeated nine teams that finished in the final FAB 50, including No. 6 Ranney School (89-51) and No. 9 Sierra Canyon.
5. (28) Mountain Brook (Mountain Brook, Ala.) 31-3
It was a terrific season for the Spartans, who get credit and move up one spot in the final rankings for their signature win over top-ranked IMG Academy. That win came in the City of Palms Classic quarterfinals and prevented a McEachern-IMG Academy game. McEachern went on to defeat the Spartans, 50-29. Mountain Brook did lose twice to non-FAB 50 ranked clubs, but in addition to the IMG game, Mountain Brook also receives ranking credit for its wins over No. 41 Meadowcreek, regionally-ranked Memphis East (Tenn.), Bearden (Knoxville, Tenn.) and Olive Branch (Miss.), in addition to winning its third straight AHSAA Class 7A state crown. The mainstay on all three state title clubs is All-American power forward Trendon Watford, who had 38 points and 12 rebounds in the win over IMG Academy and averaged 23.7 ppg, 11.8 rpg, 3.6 apg and 2.5 bpg. The 1988-89 LeFlore of Mobile team is the highest ranked ever in the FAB 50 era at No. 4.
6. (13) Ranney School (Tinton Falls, N.J.) 31-3
The Panthers had high expectations going into the season, and they met them, capturing the program’s first-ever New Jersey Tournament of Champions crown. The Panthers defeated regionally-ranked Bergen Catholic in the title game, 67-63, as coach Tahj Holden’s program overcame an early 12-point deficit to become the Shore Conference’s first program to win the TOC. Phillip Wheeler had 14 points, six rebounds and three steals in the title game and ringleader Scottie Lewis had 20 points and 11 rebounds. The Florida-bound Lewis teamed with good friend and fellow McDonald’s All-American and Villanova-bound Bryan Antoine to lead the Panthers to two victories over No. 16 Roselle Catholic, which won the 2018 TOC crown. Ranney School also handed No. 13 South Central its only loss in the title game of the John Wall Invitational and defeated No. 30 Federal Way at the Hoophall Classic. Lewis averaged 17.5 ppg and Antoine, the NJ.com Player of the Year, averaged 21.6 and finishes his career as the Shore Conference’s all-time scoring king (2,499 points).
7. (NR) Moeller (Cincinnati, Ohio) 29-0
It seemed the Fighting Crusaders lost too much firepower to attain a high preseason FAB 50 ranking, but a strong group of seniors exceeded expectations and finished with a higher ranking than last year’s state title club that lost only to three FAB 50 ranked teams and finished No. 16. This time around, coach Carl Kremer’s club did not lose a game, and repeated as OHSAA Division I state champions with a 52-49 victory over regionally-ranked St. Vincent-St. Mary of Akron. Senior forward Alec Pfriem came up big with 19 points and eight rebounds and senior guard Miles McBride added 16 points, six rebounds and three assists. Pfriem also had a double-double (20 points, 10 rebounds) in the 72-52 state semifinal win over St. Edward of Lakewood. Moeller is the first unbeaten Ohio D1 champ since Zanesville in 1995 and ended the season riding a 49-game winning streak. McBride, a West Virginia recruit and the lone returning starter off the 2018 team, averaged 14.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 4.1 apg for a balanced team that captured an out-of-state tourney title but was unable to climb any higher in the rankings because of its lack of victories over FAB 50 ranked foes.
8. (3) DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.) 33-5
Often teams from the powerful Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC) are tough to rank because they focus on the winning the WCAC Tournament title, and then have to quickly jump right into various state tournaments against many of the same teams. The result is quality teams tending to beat up on each other, making it hard for them to rise in the rankings towards the end of the season. DeMatha won the Maryland Private Schools state crown and the Alhambra Catholic Invitational and moved up four spots in the final rankings because of what transpired at GEICO Nationals. The two finalists in that event were the only two non-WCAC losses for coach Mike Jones club, as it fell to top-ranked IMG Academy (73-67) and No. 3 La Lumiere (73-50). Led by WCAC tri-POY Justin Moore (18.2 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 4.1 apg), the Stags defeated No. 20 Guyer, No. 42 Roman Catholic and No. 19 Paul VI three times, including a 60-51 victory at Alhambra. The legendary program split with No. 22 Gonzaga and Bishop O’Connell and defeated St. John’s College three out of four times this season.
9. (8) Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) 32-3
The Trailblazers played right to the level expected of them in the preseason, but had to drop a spot in the final analysis because two of its losses came by wide margins to the Montverde Academy team that lost in GEICO Semifinals (whereas DeMatha lost to both finalists). After losing its final regular season game to No. 39 Rancho Christian after giving up the final 13 points of the game, Sierra Canyon stepped up in the CIF Southern Section and SoCal open playoffs, and blew out regionally-ranked Sheldon of Sacrament, 76-52, in the CIF Open championship game. Coach Andre Chevalier’s club defeated No. 12 University School and beat No. 35 Mater Dei in the SoCal open final after defeating regionally-ranked Westchester of Los Angeles in the regional semifinals. That win somewhat avenged the loss to Rancho Christian because Westchester beat the Eagles in the previous round of the playoffs and Sierra Canyon actually beat the Comets twice. Point guard Scotty Pippen Jr. was (16 ppg, 6 apg) was a steady force all season long and named league MVP, while K.J. Martin (17 ppg, 12 rpg, 3.5 bpg) was huge on both ends of the floor in the wins over Mater Dei and Sheldon. From beginning to end, however, shooting guard and Duke-bound Cassius Stanley (19 ppg, 6 rpg, 3 apg) was Sierra Canyon’s best player because of an improved feel and jump shot.
10. (2) Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) 33-5
The Warriors drew up the exact play they wanted at the end of their GEICO Nationals semifinal game versus No. 3 La Lumiere, as star guard Cole Anthony drew the defense into the key and shooting guard Cam Thomas got a clean look at a corner 3-pointer. It was just off and the Lakers held on for a 58-57 win. Oak Hill opened the event with a 79-72 victory over then No. 13 Wasatch Academy as Anthony (18.5 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 10.2 apg) had 30 points and 11 rebounds. Anthony missed the 72-67 loss to top-ranked IMG Academy and a few other games to injury, but his presence made no difference in the 76-51 loss to No. 4 Montverde Academy. Thomas (26.4 ppg) and center Kofi Cockburn (13.7 ppg, 10.7 rpg) also made big impacts for the Warriors. Making its tenth GEICO Nationals appearance to close the season, Oak Hill offset losses to No. 33 Imhotep Charter and regionally-ranked Teays Valley Christian Prep (Scott Depot, W. Va.) with a victory over No. 46 Dorman, as head coach Steve Smith upped his all-time record to 1,141-77.
11. (17) Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kan.) 23-6
The Buffaloes fully expected to be one of the best independent teams in the country and they accomplished just that, earning their first invitation to GEICO Nationals. Sunrise fell to eventual tournament champion and FAB 50 No. 1 IMG Academy, 65-50, in the quarterfinals. Coach Luke Barnwell’s club actually might have been most impressive in defeat, losing to then No. 1 La Lumiere by a single point and to final No. 2 McEachern in overtime. Barnwell scheduled aggressively and it produced wins over No. 12 University School, No. 18 Duncanville, No. 20 Guyer and No. 33 Imhotep Charter with No. 28 Wasatch Academy and No. 4 Montverde Academy accounting for the other two losses to FAB 50 ranked foes. Guard Grant Sherfield averaged right around 17 ppg, as did N’Faly Dante, who added 10 rpg and 4 bpg and made his presence known as one of the top junior big men in the country.
12. (5) University School (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) 27-5
The Sharks had high expectations for this season and from a local perspective, they met them by capturing their second consecutive FHSAA Class 5A championship in dominant fashion. From a national perspective, it was more of a mixed bag, as University School had its ups and downs versus FAB 50-ranked foes. Coach Jim Carr’s club defeated No. 25 Gonzaga Prep and No. 26 Vashon, but fell to No. 33 Imhotep Charter and four teams ranked ahead of it: No. 11 Sunrise Christian Academy, No. 9 Sierra Canyon, No. 4 Montverde Academy and top-ranked IMG Academy. The 65-57 loss to Montverde Academy came in the first round of GEICO Nationals, whereas the team met in the event title game 2018 behind the dominant play of Vernon Carey Jr. The Duke-bound big man and two-time state Mr. Basketball suffered from an ankle injury in the post-season this year, but last year’s National Junior of the Year was still able to post 21.7 ppg and 9.0 rpg, The Sharks will be strong once again in 2019-20 with the return of wing Scottie Barnes (14.5, 7.4 rpg, 5.8 apg) and brothers Jace and Jett Howard, the sons of former NBA player Juwan Howard who came on in the post-season.
13. (NR) South Central (Winterville, N.C.) 30-1
It was a historic season for the Falcons, as they captured their first NCHSAA state title in impressive fashion. Coach Chris Cherry’s club defeated West Charlotte 72-46, the largest margin of victory in a Class 4A title game. This came after a 70-50 semifinal victory over a Millbrook of Raleigh team that was FAB 50 ranked for a portion of the season and came into the game with only one loss to Leesville Road of Raleigh. South Central defeated Leesville Road, 68-45, in the semifinals of the John Wall Invitational before falling to No. 6 Ranney School, 63-58, in the title game. South Central went unbeaten against Carolina opponents behind the inside play of center Day’ron Sharpe, a first team all-state choice who averaged 15.9 ppg, 9.8 rpg, and 2.2 bpg. Senior guard Shykeim Phillips was also a keg cog, averaging 16.5 ppg and 3.6 apg.
14. (11) Shadow Mountain (Phoenix, Ariz.) 26-3
Led by a stellar senior backcourt, the Matadors went on a historic run, capturing four consecutive Arizona Interscholastic Association state titles (and five in the past six seasons). The fourth came courtesy of a 64-38 Class 4A victory over Deer Valley of Glendale, as Shadow Mountain dominated in-state competition in recent years. The victory over Deer Valley was its 90th in its prior 91 outings versus Arizona opponents dating back to 2015, with the only loss coming this season against No. 47 and Class 6A champ Pinnacle on a buzzer-beater by All-American Nico Mannion. The ringleaders were Arizona-state bound Jaelen House (21.6 ppg, 5.7 spg) and Grand Canyon-bound Jovan Blacksher (16.6 ppg, 3.5 spg), whose teamwork, quick hands and feet, and intensity led to countless big wins the past three seasons, including this season over No. 17 Belleville West and No. 19 Paul VI with the other two losses coming against No. 2 McEachern and regionally-ranked Memphis East of Tennessee. Blacksher (455) and House (591) combined to terrorize offenses to the tune of 1,046 steals over 116 career games (9.0 spg) while leading Shadow Mountain to a 105-11 mark.
15. (BB) Carmel (Carmel, Ind.) 26-1
The Greyhounds captured the IHSAA Class 4A state crown with a 60-55 victory over regionally-ranked Ben Davis of Indianapolis. It was a team effort as four players hit for double figures, led by freshman standout Peter Suder with 14 points and Butler-bound senior John-Michael Malloy with 13 points. Coach Ryan Osborn’s club advanced to its second consecutive state title game with a dominant 71-42 semifinal victory over Penn of Mishawaka, as Malloy netted 16 points and the defense held Penn’s best scorer to seven points. Carmel is the highest-ranked team on the FAB 50 bubble in the preseason and it had plenty of motivation after falling to unbeaten Warren Central in last year’s title game, 54-48. Warren Central finished No. 10 in last year’s FAB 50 and the only thing preventing a similar or higher finish for Carmel was a 52-50 loss to Brownsburg.
16. (26) Roselle Catholic (Roselle, N.J.) 28-4
The Lions were gunning for their fourth New Jersey TOC crown in seven season, but came up short when they lost to No. 6 Ranney School in the NJSIAA Non-Public B championship game. It was Roselle’s second loss of the season to the eventual TOC champions. Roselle only had one bad outing all season, losing to Norcross (Ga.), 75-55, at the Hoophall Classic, with the only other loss coming against No. 4 Montverde Academy. Behind McDonald’s All-American Kahlil Whitney, the Lions won a second consecutive Union County Tourney title, defeated No. 34 Gill St. Bernard’s twice and regionally-ranked Bergen Catholic. The Kentucky-bound Whitney averaged 18.6 ppg and 5.4 rpg, while guard Josh Pierre-Louis provided top notch perimeter defense while averaging 14.2 ppg and 3.4 apg.
17. (22) Belleville West (Belleville, Ill.) 34-4
The Maroons came into the season with high expectations and met them, capturing their second consecutive IHSA Class 4A state crown. In the final, Belleville West defeated regionally-ranked Evanston, 71-59, as it took control of the game in the second half behind 24 points, 10 rebounds and six assists from Ohio-St. bound E.J. Liddell. Will Shumpert added 21 for the Maroons. In the semifinals, the Maroons were even more impressive, routing No. 44 Curie, 70-48, as Liddell had 14 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, four block and two steals and Shumpert had a game-high 19 points. Belleville West did lose to No. 14 Shadow Mountain and had a two-game losing streak as Liddell nursed an ankle injury, but also owned a win over No. 26 Vashon and split games with Class 3A champ East St. Louis. By winning back-to-back state championships, Liddell joins Illinois prep legends Shaun Livingston, Derrick Rose and Jabari Parker as the lead players on back-to-back IHSA major division state championship teams.
18. (BB) Duncanville (Duncanville, Texas) 32-7
A team that just missed the FAB 50 in the preseason, the Panthers hovered around .500 (7-7) early in the season. Then it began to click for Duncanville and finished its season playing like a FAB 50 champion. The talented individual parts came together and the team realized it could get to where it wanted if senior guard Jahmius Ramsey led the way. The result was where Duncanville felt it should have been all along, with a UIL Class 6A state crown in tow. Duncanville downed regionally-ranked clubs North Shore of Houston (semifinals), 63-56, and Klein Forest of Houston (championship), 73-69, at the UIL Final Four. Klein Forest get off to a hot start, but junior Micah Peavy kept the Panthers in the game with 15 first half points. Ramsey picked up where Peavy (22 points) left off in the first half, scoring 17 of his 19 points in the second half. Duncanville defeated No. 20 Guyer in the Region I final in overtime, 66-62, in a game between Texas’ top two-ranked teams as Ramsey scored 26 points. Ramsey, who netted 34 points in the regular season win over Guyer, helped his team close on a 25-game winning streak by averaging 18.9 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 2.9 apg.
19. (9) Paul VI (Fairfax, Va.) 27-9
Sometimes coaches and fans feel WCAC clubs get the benefit of the doubt in the rankings, so Paul VI’s resume should help them understand the true talent and depth of the programs in the conference. The Panthers lost their two best players to ACL injuries within their first couple of games, but turned out to be good enough to play at the level expected of them in the preseason. Without Virginia Tech-bound Anthony Harris and top-notch junior Jeremy Roach, coach Glenn Farello’s club went 18-2 in WCAC play and recorded wins over No. 21 St. Frances Academy, handed No. 24 Nicolet its only loss of the season and played No. 2 McEachern and No. 4 Montverde Academy close. In conference play, No. 8 DeMatha was the only club Paul VI didn’t defeat, as the young club defeated No. 22 Gonzaga three of four times. Picking up the slack for the missing pieces was sophomore Trevor Keels, one of the three WCAC Players of the Year, and freshman point guard Knasir McDaniel.
20. (15) Guyer (Denton, Texas) 32-5
The Wildcats had a terrific season and were a tough out nationally, but came up just short of their goal, falling in overtime to No. 18 Duncanville, 66-62, in a Class 6A regional final. The Wildcats had a chance to tie the game with 12 seconds remaining, but two missed free throws by De’Vion Harmon sealed their fate. Without the star guard headed to Oklahoma, however, Guyer would have never been in that position in the first place, as he averaged 20.3 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 5.0 apg. He was part of one of the nation’s best 1-2 punches along with Oklahoma-bound forward Jalen Wilson, who sported averages of 18.1 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 3.0 apg. The only other Texas team Guyer lost to was in overtime to No. 36 Mansfield Timberview, the eventual Class 5A state champion. Guyer lost to No. 11 Sunrise Christian Academy (71-55) and No. 8 DeMatha Catholic (60-53) while owning a key 80-62 victory over No. 23 Bishop Gorman.
21. (21) St. Frances Academy (Baltimore, Md.) 37-7
The Panthers had a few more losses than projected, but they finish in their preseason ranking spot after closing out the season strong. Coach Nick Myles’ club lost to Mt. St. Joseph twice in Baltimore Catholic League play, but came back to beat the Gaels, 77-61, in the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association A title game behind 28 points and six assists from junior Adrian “Ace” Baldwin and 23 points from Jamal West. St. Frances Academy also won the BCL title, 71-68, over Goretti of Hagerstown. The Panthers defeated Goretti three out of four games, No. 22 Gonzaga and regionally-ranked Memphis East, but fell to the WCAC clubs ranked ahead of them: DeMatha Catholic and Paul VI. Baldwin led this deep and talented team that had four double-digit scorers with a 14.1 ppg and 5.6 apg, while West averaged 12.9 ppg and 7.4 rpg.
22. (30) Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.) 28-9
The third WCAC in this year’s final rankings gets credit for defeating No. 23 Bishop Gorman at the Cancer Research Classic, splitting with No. 8 DeMatha Catholic and beating No. 19 Paul VI one out of four times. In coach Steve Turner’s mind, his club got the win its needed over the Panthers with a 63-55 victory in the WCAC semifinals. Behind 20 points from junior forward Terrance Williams and 19 points from senior guard Anwar Gill, Gonzaga recorded a 60-56 victory over St. John’s College in the WCAC title game. In its next game in the DCSAA playoffs, the Purple Eagles fell to St. John’s, but had already beaten their WCAC rivals three times earlier in the season. Behind the play of Williams (17.9 ppg, 8 rpg) and Gill, Gonzaga went 15-5 in conference play and beat the Mt. St. Joseph team No. 21 St. Frances lost to twice. Gonzaga did lose to St. Frances at the Alhambra Catholic Invitational, but was able to win its third WCAC title since 2015.
23. (14) Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, Nev.) 28-5
The Gaels had high expectations after winning the NIAA Class 4A state title in 2018 with primarily sophomores and freshmen. They move up in the final rankings after giving GEICO Nationals finalist La Lumiere a major scare before falling in double overtime, 74-69. Gorman can’t quite get back to its preseason position, because of a 80-62 setback to No. 20 Guyer, but now that the young players are becoming upperclassmen, the Gaels will not only be heavy favorites to win their ninth consecutive NIAA crown in 2019-20, they should contend for national championship accolades. Gorman’s best wins this season include a 61-39 victory over No. 39 Rancho Christian, a key 54-52 win over No. 25 Gonzaga Prep and a triumph over cross-town Findlay Prep. Four starters and key reserves return, including leading scorer Noah Taitz (15.6 ppg), center Isaiah Cottrell (15.2 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 4.3 bpg) and catalyst Zaon Collins (9.6 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 6.8 apg, 2.7 spg).
24. (46) Nicolet (Glendale, Wis.) 27-1
The Knights had a terrific campaign, concluding it with a 67-52 win over Washington of Milwaukee in the WIAA D2 state title game. Nicolet won its first state title in memorable fashion, with highlight plays and a double-double from junior forward Jalen Johnson. The Associated Press Wisconsin Player of the Year had 20 points and 20 rebounds, while fellow junior forward Jamari Sibley also had a big game with 23 points. Nicolet had a bulls-eye on its back all season after Johnson (20.2 ppg, 11.1 rpg, 6.1 apg) and his younger brother Kobe, a sophomore, transferred in and it did not have any letups against in-state competition. Nicolet’s only loss came against No. 19 Paul VI, 80-69, at the National Hoopfest in Washington, D.C., one game after downing St. John’s College of Washington, D.C., 62-60
25. (42) Gonzaga Prep (Spokane, Wash.) 25-2
The Bullpups started the season ranked lower than No. 30 Federal Way because of that club’s incoming talent and loaded schedule. In the final analysis, however, Gonzaga Prep once again found a way to get it done when it mattered. It defeated Federal Way, 61-53, in the WIAA Class 4A state semifinals behind 21 points from junior guard Liam Lloyd and 10 points, 12 rebounds and four assists from big man Anton Watson. The game was highly-anticipated after the Bullpups defeated Federal Way by two points in last year’s Class 4A state title game and coach Matty McIntyre’s club had to stay focused after the big win to complete the quest of a second consecutive state crown. Gonzaga Prep turned a close game with Mount Si of Snoqualmie into a rout with a 20-6 third quarter advantage as Watson dominated action in the 69-43 victory with 33 points on 16-of-19 field goals, eight rebounds and four assists. The Bullpups went unbeaten in-state this season, losing only to No. 12 University School and No. 23 Bishop Gorman. Including last year’s unbeaten run to the state crown when G-Prep finished No. 36 in the FAB 50, Watson (21.6 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 3.6 apg) only lost six games in his four-year career.
26. (34) Vashon (St. Louis, Mo.) 25-5
The Wolverines had high expectations and met their season goals against a challenging schedule. Led by MSHSAA Class 3A Player of the Year Mario McKinney, Vashon won the state title with a 69-59 victory over Springfield Catholic, as the Wolverines shot over 50 percent from the field and forced 20 turnovers. The Missouri-bound McKinney scored 23 points, top-notch junior forward Cam’Ron Fletcher had 19 and junior guard Phillip Russell added 17. The win erased the memory of last year’s playoff disappointment, as the program has now won three state titles in the past four seasons. Vashon did lose to the Illinois Class 4A (No. 17 Belleville West) and Class 3A (regionally-ranked East St. Louis) champions, but did defeat No. 27 Long Island Lutheran (63-59) and No. 28 Wasatch Academy (70-58) at the Montverde Academy Invitational.
27. (33) Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, N.Y.) 23-2
Perhaps no team in the country was as motivated to win a state title as the Crusaders were after losing in last year’s title game in crushing fashion. LuHi was assessed a technical foul with 8.3 seconds remaining, in a tie game and with possession of the ball, for calling a timeout the scorer’s table and game officials believe it didn’t have but was later proved it did. This time around, coach Jon Buck’s team left no doubt, defeating Christ the King of Middle Village in the New York State Federation Class AA title game, 51-31. LuHi got a terrific defensive team effort and 23 points from junior guard Andre Curbelo to win the program’s first AA title after winning seven in Class A, the last in 2012. In the semifinals, the Crusaders downed regionally-ranked South Shore of Brooklyn, 77-53, as Curbelo had 31 points. Led by Curbelo and veteran big man Essam Mostafa, LuHi defeated South Shore during the regular season and also downed No. 34 Gill St. Bernard at the Metro Classic. The Crusaders fell to No. 26 Vashon and the unranked team it fell to was Charlotte Christian of North Carolina.
28. (10) Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah) 26-4
The Tigers qualified for GEICO Nationals for the third time in program history, but are still searching for a win at the event after falling to No. 10 Oak Hill Academy, 79-72, after having a hard time slowing down All-American guard Cole Anthony. Under first year coach David Evans, Wasatch Academy only lost to FAB 50 ranked foes, including then No. 1 La Lumiere by one point (53-52) and to No. 26 Vashon. The rout (71-47) at the hands of No. 39 Rancho Christian is off set by a 65-53 victory over No. 11 Sunrise Christian Academy. Evans (who guided Lone Peak of Utah to national prominence) used multiple lineups with the mainstays including Minnesota-bound Tre Williams (15.6 ppg) and junior forward Maddy Sissoko (12.7 ppg, 8.9 rpg).
29. (NR) Southwest Guilford (High Point, N.C.) 32-0
A magical season nearly turned into a nightmare when senior guard Christian Martin went in for a dunk and came down awkwardly hard during the Class 3A West final versus Cox Mill of Concord. That unfortunate incident aside, the 88-58 state semifinal win over the two-time defending state champs was arguably the Cowboys’ best win of the season, as Cox Mill spent plenty of weeks FAB 50 ranked. The Cowboys rallied around their injured teammate to win a second state title in three years with a 67-60 victory over Walter Williams of Burlington. The Cowboys won the Class 4A state crown in 2017. Martin was placed in a medically induced coma and awoke on the same day of the state championship victory. He eventually went home at the end of March. Jay’Den Turner had 29 points, six steals and five rebounds in the win over Cox Mill, while Keyshaun Langley had 18 points, 11 rebounds and six assists in the title game with Joel Pettiford contributing 18 points.
30. (31) Federal Way (Federal Way, Wash.) 26-3
The Eagles were about as good as predicted in the preseason, but came up short of their goal of avenging last season’s close Class 4A state finals loss to No. 25 Gonzaga Prep. Federal Way fell to the Bullpups in the state semifinals, 61-53. The Eagles had a 47-43 lead entering the fourth quarter, but scored only six points in the final period, as star forward Jaden McDaniels and talented junior Tari Eason both fouled out. McDaniels, a McDonald’s All-American, also battled major foul trouble at the Tarkanian Classic where the Eagles defeated eventual CIF NorCal Open champion Sheldon (Sacramento, Calif.) and eventual CIF D1 champ Chino Hills (Calif.) before falling to No. 39 Rancho Christian in the semifinals, 76-57. The Eagles’ other regular season loss came against No. 6 Ranney School (73-63) at the Hoophall Classic.
31. (BB) Hamilton Heights Christian Academy (Chattanooga, Tenn.) 34-4
It was a terrific season for coach Zach Ferrell’s independent club, as it captured the National Association of Christian Athletes D1 championship courtesy of a 65-53 victory over Southwest Christian Academy (Little Rock, Ark.). Unfortunate news came after the season when it was announced the school would close its doors due to financial constraints. That means six talented underclassmen on the roster will have to find new homes next season. HHCA was able to go out as a nationally-ranked unit because of quality victories over regionally-ranked Bearden of Knoxville and Huntington Prep of West Virginia, splitting games with regionally-ranked Memphis East and recording an avenging win over No. 32 Legacy Early College. Coach Ferrell’s club lost in overtime to the Teays Valley Prep of West Virginia club that owned a win over No. 10 Oak Hill Academy. HHCA was led by a pair of juniors: point guard Jordan Rawls (23.0 ppg, 6.4 apg, 2.4 spg) and wing Samson Ruzhentsev (17.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.5 spg).
32. (NR) Legacy Early College (Greenville, S.C.) 34-5
Another independent club that closed strongly was the Lions, which captured the USA National Prep Tournament in South Carolina with a 55-44 victory over regionally-ranked Teays Valley Prep of West Virginia, a club it beat in two of its final four games of the season. Similar to No. 31 Hamilton Heights Christian Academy, coach B.J. Jackson’s club also defeated Huntington Prep of West Virginia and was also able to avenge an early loss to Quality Education Academy of North Carolina. Legacy Early lost to No. 28 Wasatch Academy by a large margin (82-53), but made up for it by defeating Hillcrest Prep of Arizona in the USA National Prep tourney semifinals and splitting Hamilton Heights Christian Academy. HHCA won the return match so the Lions naturally come in one spot lower in the final rankings. The team was led by 6-foot-7 forward Jalyn McCreary (18.2 ppg, 6.3 rpg) and 6-foot-11 center Rodney Howard (10.2 ppg, 7.4 rpg).
33. (7) Imhotep Charter (Philadelphia, Pa.) 27-6
With a senior-oriented club, it comes as no surprise the Panthers finish FAB 50 ranked after capturing their third consecutive PIAA Class 4A state crown. After all, coach Andre Noble’s club finished No. 4 in the 2017 FAB 50 and No. 13 last season. This year, the Panthers came in second place in District 12 behind Bonner-Prendergast after losing 59-57 in overtime, but came back to beat the Adrian Wong-led Friars 67-56 in the state title game. Imhotep Charter’s other loss to an unranked club came against Patrick School of New Jersey. The Panthers were able to make up for those losses and the one to No. 42 Roman Catholic by recording wins over No. 10 Oak Hill Academy, No. 12 University School and No. 50 Kennedy Catholic in overtime. The Maryland-bound Scott, who played a major role in all three title-winning clubs, led the way in the title game versus Bonner-Prendergast with 20 points, as Imhotep Charter has now won 15 consecutive PIAA playoff games and seven overall state titles.
34. (NR) Gill St. Bernard’s (Gladstone, N.J.) 26-5
The Knights didn’t close out their season with a state crown, falling to No. 16 Roselle Catholic, 48-44, in the North Jersey, Non-Public B finals. Gill St. Bernard had a chance to tie or take the lead in the closing seconds, but Roselle Catholic McDonald’s All-American Khalil Whitney made a terrific defensive play on standout guard Paul Mulcahy. Although Gill St. Bernard’s has lost to Roselle Catholic in three consecutive section finals and seven straight contests, it was still a terrific season for coach Mergin Sina’s club, which deserves rankings credit for being the only Jersey club to defeat No. 6 Ranney School. The Knights only lost by two points (53-51) to No. 27 Long Island Lutheran and behind the play of Mulcahy led the program to four Somerset County Tournament crowns. The Rutgers-bound guard averaged a Russell Westbrook-like 18.1 ppg, 10.2 rpg and 10.1 apg this season.
35. (48) Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) 29-5
No. 9 Sierra Canyon was fairly dominant in its run to a second consecutive CIF open state title, but it gives Monarchs’ fans hope for next season that their young club gave the Trailblazers two tough playoff games, including a 83-73 loss in the SoCal open final. Mater Dei cracked the preseason FAB 50, but we took a cautious approach in rising it too fast, especially after it fell to unranked Whitney Young of Chicago, 67-61, at the Chicago Elite Classic and was upset by Camarillo (Calif.). Mater Dei doesn’t quite have a signature win like No. 34 Gill St. Bernard, but was able to split the Trinity League title with the St. John Bosco team it lost to during the regular season and recorded an avenging win over the Braves in the post-season. With a good group of shooters led by sophomore point guard Devin Askew, the Cal-Hi Sports State Sophomore Player of the Year, Mater Dei also beat regionally-ranked Bishop Montgomery and Centennial of Corona in the post-season.
36. (NR) Mansfield Timberview (Arlington, Texas) 38-2
The Wolves didn’t fare too well at the long-running Whataburger Tournament, falling to No. 18 Duncanville (79-49) and losing the third place game to regionally-ranked San Antonio Wagner (70-68). Those results were long-forgotten after Mansfield Timberview avenged the loss to Wagner in the UIL Class 5A state title game with a 77-64 victory and Duncanville went on to win the Class 6A crown. Senior guard C.J. Smith led the way in the state title game with 24 points, as the Wolves blitzed Wagner to open the game, taking a 22-3 lead, then holding on at the end. Four players scored in double figures for Mansfield Timberview, which ended the season on a 19-game winning streak but can’t climb any higher in the rankings due to its lack of FAB 50 victories and the margin versus Duncanville. It was the second crown in three years for the Wolves, which finished No. 13 in the Southwest Region Top 20 in 2017.
37. (NR) Starkville (Starkville, Miss.) 30-1
The Yellowjackets completed a successful season by capturing the MHSAA Class 6A state crown with a 61-46 victory over Meridian. Coach Greg Carter’s deep and versatile club erased the memory of last year’s semifinal loss to Columbus, which went on to beat Meridian for the state crown. The Yellowjackets had three players in double figures, as 6-foot-4 junior forward Zeke Cook scored a game-high 15 points, 5-foot-9 senior Tyler Talley added 12 points and 6-foot-4 senior forward Atavius Jones had 11. Starkville lost its only game to eventual Class 6A semifinalist Tupelo by two points in overtime at the All-American Shootout, but the Yellowjackets stormed back to beat the same club, 69-45, at Travis Outlaw’s Slam Dunk at the Hump. Starkville concluded its season riding a 22-game winning streak and gets rankings credit for one of those triumphs coming against No. 43 Center Hill. That was a 63-62 win at the Tangle on the Trail against a team that eventually won the Class 5A state title.
38. (NR) Salesian (Richmond, Calif.) 31-1
The Pride were riding along at No. 7 in the FAB 50 when they were shocked by Modesto Christian, 56-55, in the NorCal open regional semifinals. In the CIF’s open era, Salesian drops to 0-5 all-time. After losing James Akinjo (Georgetown) to graduation, Salesian exceeded preseason expectations because of its team-first approach and terrific defense, spearheaded by twin all-state guards Jaden and Jovon McClanahan, who both averaged double figure scoring and just man-handled perimeter ball-handlers. Salesian is able to finish FAB 50 ranked because it actually split with Modesto Christian, defeated No. 44 Curie, No. 46 Dorman and downed eventual NorCal open champion Sheldon of Sacramento, 77-59.
39. (24) Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.) 25-6**
Similar to No. 38 Salesian, Rancho Christian’s season ended in disappointment, but you can’t just discount the quality victories against one of the nation’s toughest schedules. The only difference between the Eagles and Salesian was the expectation level coming in. With the Mobley brothers in the lineup, the Eagles were one of the favorites to capture the CIF open state title. Senior Isaiah Mobley, a McDonald’s All-American who averaged 22 ppg, 13 rpg and 4 apg, and junior Evan, the Riverside Press Enterprise Player of the Year who averaged 19.2 ppg, 10.4 rpg, 4.7 bpg and 3.3 spg, led Rancho to many quality victories. Rancho Christian defeated CIF D1 champ Chino Hills twice, beat regionally-ranked Memphis East in West Memphis, Ark., No. 47 Pinnacle, No. 30 Federal Way, No. 28 Wasatch Academy, and No. 9 and CIF Open Champ Sierra Canyon. Those terrific wins were offset by setbacks to No. 2 McEachern, No. 4 Montverde Academy, unranked Santa Margarita and playoff losses to regionally ranked clubs Bishop Montgomery (Torrance, Calif.) and Westchester (Los Angeles).
40. (NR) Haverford School (Haverford, Pa.) 28-0
The Fords needed overtime to preserve their first PAISAA title, defeating talented Westtown School of West Chester, 67-62. Haverford School trailed until taking its first lead of the game, 55-54, with 2:42 remaining in regulation and defeated a team that bested No. 42 Roman Catholic. Freshman Jameel “Milzy” Brown led the way with by scoring 24 points and nailing six 3-pointers. Leading scorer Christian Ray and Jameer Nelson Jr. added 17 points for the Fords. According to tedsilary.com, coach Bernie Rodgers’ club became the first team from the Inter-Ac League to finish unbeaten since Friends Central of Wynnewood in 1939. Brown did step up in the title game, while Ray was the leading scorer in 24 of the 28 victories, with a game-high of 36 two times.
41. (BB) Meadowcreek (Norcross, Ga.) 26-6
The Mustangs were highly considered for a preseason FAB 50 berth and actually defended their first-ever GHSA Class AAAAAAA title admirably, advancing to the championship game before falling to No. 2 McEachern, 62-54. Ironically, coach Curtis Gilleylen’s club finished with the identical won-loss record it did last year when it was No. 19 in the FAB 50. Meadowcreek defeated Norcross twice and club owned a victory over No. 16 Roselle Catholic. One of the wins over Norcross came in the Region 7 AAAAAAA tournament, 46-44, and Meadowcreek also defeated highly-regarded South Shore (Brooklyn, N.Y.) at the Holiday Hoopsgiving. The Mustangs lost to No. 28 Wasatch Academy (75-67) and to No. 5 Mountain Brook by a point (45-44). The Mustangs’ leaders were the senior perimeter trio of Jalen Benjamin (16.6 ppg, 3.2 apg), Jamir Chaplin (14.7 ppg, 5.6 rpg) and Damian Dunn (12.6 ppg, 6.6 rpg).
42. (45) Roman Catholic (Philadelphia, Pa.) 26-5
Some of the Cahillites’ faithful were unhappy with their team’s preseason position despite their status as the defending PIAA Class 6A champions, but our preseason forecast turned out to be in range as Roman Catholic fell in the 6A playoffs to La Salle College of Wyndmoor, 55-47. Coach Matt Griffin’s club defeated La Salle College twice earlier in the season, including in the Philly Catholic League title game. It’s not easy to judge Roman’s complete body of work because it played in the state playoffs without talented junior Lynn Greer III, who left in the off-season to Oak Hill Academy and transferred back in late October. Roman Catholic lost to the Westtown team No. 40 Haverford School beat, lost to Independence (Charlotte, N.C.), the Bonner-Prendergast team No. 33 Imhotep Charter split with and to No. 8 DeMatha. Led by St. Joe’s bound senior Hakim Hart (21.1 ppg), Penn St.-bound Seth Lundy, Greer and freshman big man Jalen Duren, the Cahillites defeated Imhotep Charter, Norcross (Ga.) and highly-regarded Archbishop Wood of Radnor.
43. (NR) Center Hill (Olive Branch, Miss.) 31-3
The Mustangs are the second team from the Magnolia State to land in the FAB 50 after a terrific season in which they captured the MHSAA Class 5A state crown. Coach Newton Mealer’s club defeated cross-town Olive Branch 75-73, in a highly-charged game and against a pro-Olive Branch crowd that, according to the Mississippi Clarion-Ledger, sported t-shirts with “.03” written on them. Center Hill lost to then FAB 50-ranked Olive Branch twice during the regular season, and the t-shirts represented the time on the clock when Center Hill hit a buzzer-beating 3-pointer to beat its rival in the District 1-5A title game, 49-48. In the state title game, Center Hill was led by IUPUI-bound point guard Calvin Temple, who sat out last season per MHSAA transfer rules, netted 24 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Besides Olive Branch, the Mustangs only lost to No. 37 and eventual Class 6A state champion Starkville, 63-62. Four players averaged in double figures for a team that also defeated regionally-ranked Bearden (Knoxville, Tenn.) and Sapulpa (Okla.), led by Temple (21.4 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 4.4 apg) and junior center Decorian Payton (15.0 ppg, 9.8 rpg, 1.3 bpg).
44. (NR) Curie (Chicago, Ill.) 34-2
The Condors had an ultra-successful season, finishing in third place in the IHSA Class 4A tournament, defeating Rockford East (63-55) after losing in the state semifinals versus red-hot No. 17 Belleville West. Curie’s perimeter oriented lineup had trouble offensively finding the basket in a game pitting the defending state champions from down state versus the No. 1 ranked team from Chicago. Dajuan Gordon had eight points less than his average, leading Curie with 10 points in the 70-48 loss. Although the margin of error in the state semis was rather large, the Condors deserve to remain in the FAB 50 by winning the Pontiac Holiday Tournament, the Red-South/Central title and coveted Chicago Public League crown courtesy of a 65-60 victory over regionally-ranked Morgan Park. Led by the Kansas St.-bound Gordon (17.8 ppg), Mike Oliver’s club beat Class 3A champ East St. Louis in overtime (88-81) and CPL power Simeon twice, with its only regular season loss coming in Kentucky versus No. 38 Salesian.
45. (BB) Booker T. Washington (Tulsa, Okla.) 26-2
One of the top two ranked Oklahoma teams in the preseason along with Tulsa Memorial, the Hornets lived up to their preseason billing by capturing the OSSAA Class 6A state title with a 82-70 victory over Putnam City North. Junior Trey Phipps, the son of second-year Booker T. Washington coach Conley Phipps II, had a career game at the most opportune time, making 10-of-15 field goals, including 8-of-12 3-pointers, and 14-of-15 free throws to lead the Hornets in the state title game and deliver the historic program their record 16th state crown. The Hornets’ only two losses of the season were to Edmond Santa Fe and Sapulpa (which lost to No. 43 Center Hill), the latter which is the program Phipps coached at in 2016-17 with his freshman son in the lineup. The 6-foot-1 Phipps (18 ppg) is committed to Tulsa and forms half of a potent backcourt combo featuring Gatorade State Player of the Year Bryce Thompson, who averaged 19.6 ppg and 5.2 apg and went for 12 points and eight assists in the state title game. Tulsa Memorial ended up winning its third consecutive Class 5A state crown and finished No. 9 in the Southwest Region Top 20.
46. (NR) Dorman (Roebuck, S.C.) 28-3
The Cavaliers put on a defensive clinic in capturing their third consecutive Class 5A state crown and will be the favorite for a fourth consecutive in 2019-20. In the 46-39 state title game win over Berkeley of Moncks Corner, Dorman held the Stags to 36 percent shooting and forced 21 turnovers. In five post-season games, Dorman gave up an average of 40 points per game. Coach Tom Ryan’s club handed Class 3A champ Keenan of Columbia its only loss and fell only to Charlotte Christian (ranked No. 33 in the FAB 50 at the time), No. 10 Oak Hill Academy and to No. 38 Salesian, the latter which probably cost Dorman a few spots in the FAB 50 by faltering in the post-season. The Cavaliers were led by a pair of juniors in guard Myles Tate (17 ppg, 5.4 apg) and forward P.J. Hall (14.5 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 2.1 bpg), whose interior presence was missed in the losses to Oak Hill Academy (75-59) and Charlotte Christian (71-53) because of injury.
47. (BB) Pinnacle (Phoenix, Ariz.) 28-3
The Pioneers had one in-state letdown versus Mountain Pointe, 76-59, but perhaps Charlie Wilde’s club had a bit of a hangover after handing four-time AIA Class 4A state champ Shadow Mountain its only loss versus an in-state foe in its last 91 outings the game prior. Pinnacle won that contest, 82-80, on a long, buzzer-beating 3-pointer by Nico Mannion, the 6-foot-3 guard bound for Arizona who averaged 24.6 ppg and scored 2,095 points in his three-year varsity career. Mannion led Pinnacle to back-to-back Class 6A state crowns, including a 83-64 victory over Chaparral of Scottsdale in this year’s title game in which the West Region’s best point guard went for 34 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Besides Mountain Pointe, the other two losses came against No. 39 Rancho Christian at Hoophall West and versus No. 35 Mater Dei during a holiday tournament.
48. (NR) Scotlandville (Baton Rouge, La.) 35-2
The Hornets captured their third consecutive LHSAA Division I state crown courtesy of a 73-53 victory over St. Augustine of New Orleans. Junior Reece Beekman was named state title game MVP for the second year in a row after scoring 28 points (8-of-12 shooting) and dishing off nine assists. Scotlandville had to replace 2018 All-American Javonte Smart (LSU) and junior Tai ‘Reon Joseph, who scored 26 points in the state title game, was one of three new underclass starters who stepped up in a big way. Scotlandville, which lost to Wright of New Orleans at the Sugar Bowl National Prep Classic and to Walker and doesn’t have a senior starter, will be gunning for its fourth consecutive state crown, its fifth in sixth years and seventh overall in 2019-20 under coach Carlos Sample, which has led the program to 10 consecutive state title games. All-stater Beekman averaged a triple-double (21. 9 ppg, 10.2 rpg, 10.2 apg, 3.6 spg) while Joseph ( 19.7 ppg, 4.2 rpg) and junior Carvell Teasett (18.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg) are two other honors candidates for next season.
49. (BB) Hopkins (Minnetonka, Minn.) 27-4
The Royals defeated Lakeville North, 55-40, to capture the Class 4A state title, the program’s second in four years. Hopkins lost only one game in 2015-16, beating Lakeville North in that year’s state title game and finishing No. 21 in the FAB 50. Kerwin Walton had 17 points, Arizona-bound Zeke Nnaji had 14 points and 12 rebounds Dane Zimmer had 21 rebounds to lead the way in this year’s state championship game for a program that has now won eight state titles since 2002 and 10 overall. Nnaji, a 6-foot-11 forward, was named metro player of the year by the Minneapolis Star Tribune after averaging 24.1 ppg and 9.4 rpg for a team that had its lowest scoring output of the season in the state title game.
50. (50) Kennedy Catholic (Hermitage, Pa.) 27-3
It wasn’t easy, but the Golden Eagles were able win their fourth consecutive PIAA state crown with a 64-62 double overtime victory over Pennridge of Perkasie. Leading the way for Kennedy Catholic versus Pennridge was McDonald’s All-American big man Oscar Tshiebwe, who had 16 points, 21 rebounds, nine steals, six blocks and several key plays on both sides of the ball down the stretch. The key play by Tshiebwe was a blocked shot that sailed out of bounds with 0.8 seconds remaining in double overtime that sealed the program’s first Class 6A state crown after dominating Class A the past three seasons. The only in-state loss for coach Rick Mancino’s club was in overtime to No. 33 Imhotep Charter (69-67). Kennedy Catholic was able to avenge a loss to St. Edward (Lakewood, Ohio) with a 73-64 win at the BK Classic in Erie, Pa. Tshiebwe averaged 23.4 ppg and 18 rpg while earning Gatorade State POY laurels and was nicely complimented by Duquesne-bound guard Maceo Austin, who netted a team-high 19 points in the state title game victory.
Note: The FAB 50 powered by www.ebooksnet.com is a continuation of the National Sports News Service ratings that began in 1952. These were the first national high school rankings and the late Art Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They were compiled for many years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 19 years ago.
Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores
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RELATED: All-Time Mr. Basketball USA Winners | GEICO Nationals Breakdown | Latest FAB 50 National Rankings | GEICO Nationals All-Time Records | GEICO Nationals Bracket/TV Listings
As the season winds down, the elite performers have separated themselves from the pack in the latest 2018-19 Mr. Basketball USA Tracker powered by www.ebooksnet.com. The race for the prestigious national honor was wide open in the preseason and during the regular season, but with only GEICO Nationals and the national all-star game circuit to complete, the list of legitimate national player of the year candidates has trimmed down and the top candidates are now in focus.
In the last go-around, 22 candidates received recognition from the 10-man Mr. Basketball USA Tracker panel, but in the latest voting results, 17 players made the cut as legitimate candidates. While no candidate appeared on all 10 ballots in the previous tracker, the top two candidates heading down the stretch are on the radar of the entire panel. Fittingly, their seasons are not complete yet and what transpires in the next few weeks could swing the votes in favor of the eventual winner.
Those two players are point guard, Cole Anthony of FAB 50 No. 17 Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) and power forward Isaiah Stewart of No. 1 La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.). Both Anthony and Stewart appeared on 10 ballots (no other player appeared on more than eight) with Anthony leading the way with 84 total points, four points more than the Washington-bound Stewart. Anthony, still undecided for college, garnered four of the 10 first-place votes and two other second-place votes, while Stewart had two first-place and two second place votes among his 80 total points.
Cole Anthony is averaging a triple double this season. 17.8 PPG, 10 RPG, 10 APG ?? Can he lead Oak Hill to #GEICONationals championship next week? @The_ColeAnthony pic.twitter.com/5ARB4Y3e6H
— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) March 29, 2019
In the previous tracker, Anthony tied with junior center Evan Mobley of FAB 50 No. 39 Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.) for first place, but Anthony's performance at the 42nd annual McDonald's All-American Game and the early exit for Mobley's team in the post-season caused changed at the top of the voting results. Mobley appeared on eight ballots and only dropped a single option overall (from 64 to 63), but Anthony and Stewart gained traction and gobbled up many of the points that previously went to fringe candidates to take control of the race.
Mobley might be the top long-term prospect of the entire group, but he's done for the season, while Anthony and Stewart used McDonald's to propel their candidacy. The point guard matchup between the East's Anthony and the West's Nico Mannion of FAB 50 No. 47 Pinnacle (Phoenix, Ariz.) was one of the most highly-anticipated matchups of the prestigious all-star game. Mannion (who was one of five candidates to receive a first-place vote) played well during McDonald's practices, but the East club dominated the scrimmage and when the bright lights came on in the nationally-televised game, Anthony put his stamp on the game from the onset with his explosiveness and pin-point passing and took home the McDonald's Most Valuable Player award. The son of former NBA point guard Greg Anthony finished with 14 points on 7-of-11 shooting, five rebounds, seven assists, two blocks and zero assists.
Stewart, a recruiting gem for Mike Hopkins at Washington, was arguably the most productive and competitive player from start to finish at McDonald's. He had a competitive battle with seven-foot James Wiseman of Memphis East (Memphis, Tenn.), who had one first-place vote and 47 points overall, and was one of the most impressive performers in the game, finishing with 16 points on 8-of-11 shooting and five rebounds in the East's 115-110 victory. Stewart is the ringleader for the nation's No. 1 ranked team, averaging 18.1 ppg, 11.3 rpg and 2.9 bpg and looking to lead the Lakers to a GEICO Nationals championship this week in New York City.
"He's the best low-post player in the country and out played Wiseman at McDonald's," said tracker panelist and McDonald's All-American committee member Frank Burlison of BurlisonOnBasketball.com. "He's certainly a worthy national player of the year candidate and should be an instant 17 ppg guy at Washington. If La Lumiere wins GEICO Nationals and is dominant, it will be hard to pick against him."
The top-seeded Lakers open with FAB 50 No. 25 Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas, Nev.) on April 4 (2 pm ET, ESPNU) while fourth seeded Oak Hill Academy takes on No. 5 seed Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah) at 6 pm ET (ESPNU). If Stewart leads La Lumiere to the GEICO Nationals title, will that propel him in front of Anthony in the Mr. Basketball USA race? Or if Anthony has a big opening game and leads Oak Hill to the semifinals or title game, will his performances be enough to hold off Stewart and the other top candidates?
"We have only lost one game when our team was at full strength," Oak Hill Academy coach Steve Smith said. "Cole didn't play in two of our four losses. He's healthy now, and I like our chances in the GEICO Nationals. It's obviously, one game at a time, but he's the best player in the tournament. He facilitates for our team, and when he's on his game, we will be an extremely tough out."
Similar to the race for the No. 1 spot in the FAB 50, it looks like the most prestigious individual honor in the country will be decided by what happens on the court all the way until the very end and that's an exciting development because often times the honoree is quite obvious by this time in the season.
Make sure to tune into the ESPN family of networks April 4-6 to catch GEICO Nationals and stay logged in to www.ebooksnet.com to track the progress of the nation's top individual players and the nation’s Top teams.
Editor's Note: Click on the "+" sign next to each player's number to view how many first, second, third or fourth place votes he got and his overall point total.
| Rank | Prev. | Name | High School | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1T | Cole Anthony (10) | Oak Hill (VA) | 4 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 84 |
| 2 | 3 | Isaiah Stewart (10) | La Lumiere (IN) | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 80 |
| 3 | 1T | Evan Mobley (8) | Rancho Christian (CA) | 2 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 63 |
| 4 | 7 | James Wiseman (7) | Memphis East (TN) | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 47 |
| 5 | 4 | Anthony Edwards (6) | Holy Spirit (GA) | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 38 |
| 6 | 5 | Vernon Carey (5) | University School (FL) | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 31 |
| 7 | 8 | Scottie Lewis (3) | Ranney School (NJ) | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 26 |
| 8 | 6 | Sharife Cooper (3) | McEachern (GA) | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 23 |
| 9 | 9T | Precious Achiuwa (4) | Montverde Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 22 |
| 10T | 12T | Onyeka Okongwu (3) | Chino Hills (CA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 16 |
| 10T | 16 | Nico Mannion (2) | Pinnacle (AZ) | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 16 |
| 12 | 9T | Cade Cunningham (2) | Montverde Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12 |
| 13 | 11 | Jaden McDaniels (2) | Federal Way (WA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 |
| 14 | 12T | Trendon Watford (1) | Mountain Brook (AL) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 8 |
| 15 | 14T | Jalen Green (1) | San Joaquin Memorial (CA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| 16T | NR | Dashien Nix (1) | Simply Fundamental (NV) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| 16T | 18T | Khalil Whitney (1) | Roselle Catholic (NJ) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
About Mr. Basketball USA Tracker Panel
www.ebooksnet.com's panel of 10 experts, which includes six McDonald’s All-American selection committee members, casts its vote for the top national player of the year candidates. Each panelist lists his top seven candidates regardless of class. The votes are then tabulated on a 10-point scoring system with a first-place vote equaling 10 points, a second-place vote earning nine points and down to four points for a seventh-place vote. The number in parenthesis refers to the numbers of ballots on which a player appeared and previous rankings refers to position in last season's final tracker.
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RELATED: All-Time Mr. Basketball USA Winners | 2018-19 Preseason Tracker Results | Anthony Edwards Reclassifies To 2019 Class | "In The Paint" Podcast Breaks Down Top Candidates
Just as was the case in the preseason, 22 elite players received recognition as legitimate national player of the year candidates in the updated 2018-19 Mr. Basketball USA Tracker powered by www.ebooksnet.com. The results, however, show plenty of difference in terms of whom may win the prestigious honor and reflect just how wide open the race is. As many as seven players have a legitimate chance to join a Who's Who list in basketball as the nation's best high school basketball player for several reasons.
First, there is not one elite senior who is having monster season that is head and shoulders above the field such as NBA All-Star Ben Simmons did in 2015 for Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.). There is varying opinions on whom is the most talented player in the national 2019 class and that is clearly reflected in the 10-man tracker panel's voting results. Six players received first place votes with one, 7-foot junior Evan Mobley of FAB 50 No. 10 Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.), receiving three of them.
It also means the overall point totals for the top vote-getters are much lower overall. Over the years, the top vote-getter usually appeared on nine or all 10 ballots and hovered in the high 80s or low 90s (out of a possible 100 points). This time, however, the two players in first place received a total of 64 points and appeared on eight ballots. As a sign of the varying opinions of the elite players this season, 7-foot James Wiseman of Memphis East (Tenn.) received two first-place votes, but only appeared on one other ballot (seventh place) to tally 24 points. That combination of first place votes and total points has never been seen in the 12-year history of the Mr. Basketball USA Tracker.
"It's a tough vote since there aren't no brainer guys like (R.J.) Barrett, (Zion) Williamson, (DeAndre) Ayton, and (Marvin) Bagley that separate from the rest," said Van Coleman, COO of Global Sports Television, a long-time McDonalds All-American voter and tracker panelist. "This will need at least two more votes to get it right. Cole Anthony is trending downward and Evan Mobley upward and I'm not sure that before this is done, the juniors may be 1-2."
Coleman's comments regarding Anthony reflect the thinking of dominant stats and winning at a high level are required to earn an honor such as this (Listen to "In The Paint" Podcast about factors that make top candidates). Anthony, arguably the nation's top point guard for Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson Va.), tied Mobley for first place in the voting with 64 points, down from his preseason positioning of 81 points. In the preseason, Anthony was the only candidate to appear on all ten ballots, but this time around he's on seven ballots. Anthony is averaging 18.7 ppg, 9.6 rpg and 10.1 apg, but the Warriors are not having the season quite expected of them and it will be interesting to see where Anthony falls in the next go around after FAB 50 No. 16 Oak Hill was shocked 80-72 by unranked Teays Valley Christian (Scott Depot, W. Va.) after the ballots were sent out and compiled.
The juniors Coleman was referring to that could surpass all the 2019 players with strong closings are Mobley, who is averaging 19.2 ppg, 11.5 rpg, 2.5 apg, and 5.5 bpg, and junior point guard Sharife Cooper, who has McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.) sitting at No. 2 FAB 50 rankings with averages of 28 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 9.2 apg, and 4 spg while shooting at a 50-40-90 clip for an unbeaten club. Cooper's production on a team exceeding expectations is reflected in the voting, as he went from appearing on one ballot (seventh place) in the preseason to garnering 36 points and appearing on five ballots, including three third place votes.
Will Cooper and Mobley, one of three players to appear on eight ballots along with Anthony Edwards of Holy Spirit Prep (Atlanta, Ga.) and Isaiah Stewart of FAB 50 No. 1 La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.), continue to gain traction as the season concludes? Or will a player from the 2019 class stand up and take charge of the race? (Listen to our podcast on this topic)
It will be interesting to follow since only a few of the game's immortals (Jerry Lucas, Lew Alcindor, LeBron James) have been Mr. Baketball USA honorees as juniors.
Stay logged in to www.ebooksnet.com to track the progress of the nation's top individual players and the nation’s Top teams.
Editor's Note: Click on the "+" sign next to each player's number to view how many first, second, third or fourth place votes he got and his overall point total.
| Rank | Prev. | Name | High School | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1T | 3 | Evan Mobley (8) | Rancho Christian (CA) | 3 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 64 |
| 1T | 1 | Cole Anthony (8) | Oak Hill (VA) | 2 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 64 |
| 3 | 5 | Isaiah Stewart (8) | La Lumiere (IN) | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 59 |
| 4 | 4 | Anthony Edwards (8) | Holy Spirit (GA) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 56 |
| 5 | 2 | Vernon Carey (6) | University School (FL) | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 44 |
| 6 | 20T | Sharife Cooper (5) | McEachern (GA) | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 36 |
| 7 | 6 | James Wiseman (3) | Memphis East (TN) | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 24 |
| 8 | 14T | Scottie Lewis (3) | Ranney School (NJ) | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 19 |
| 9T | 19 | Cade Cunningham (3) | Montverde Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 18 |
| 9T | 10T | Precious Achiuwa (2) | Montverde Academy (FL) | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 18 |
| 11 | 7 | Jaden McDaniels (2) | Federal Way (WA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 12 |
| 12T | 9 | Onyeka Okongwu (2) | Chino Hills (CA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 |
| 12T | NR | Trendon Watford (2) | Mountain Brook (AL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 11 |
| 14T | 8 | Jalen Green (2) | San Joaquin Memorial (CA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9 |
| 14T | 20T | Matthew Hurt (2) | Marshall (MN) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9 |
| 16 | 12T | Nico Mannion (1) | Pinnacle (AZ) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 8 |
| 17 | 14T | Patrick Baldwin (1) | Hamilton (WI) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| 18T | NR | Greg Brown (1) | Vandergrift (TX) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| 18T | 20T | Khalil Whitney (1) | Roselle Catholic (NJ) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| 20T | 17T | R.J. Hampton (1) | Little Elm (TX) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| 20T | 12T | Jonathan Kuminga (1) | Our Savior New American (NY) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| 20T | NR | Cassius Stanley (1) | Sierra Canyon (CA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
About Mr. Basketball USA Tracker Panel
www.ebooksnet.com's panel of 10 experts, which includes six McDonald’s All-American selection committee members, casts its vote for the top national player of the year candidates. Each panelist lists his top seven candidates regardless of class. The votes are then tabulated on a 10-point scoring system with a first-place vote equaling 10 points, a second-place vote earning nine points and down to four points for a seventh-place vote. The number in parenthesis refers to the numbers of ballots on which a player appeared and previous rankings refers to position in last season's final tracker.
The post Cole Anthony, Evan Mobley Lead Pack in WIDE OPEN POY Race! appeared first on www.ebooksnet.com.
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Every season there are prospects that quickly rise in mainstream national player rankings, but it's not often a somewhat unheralded player can rise to the top five and into the conversation of best overall long-term prospect in his class.
That is the current scenario of 6-foot-10 Jaden McDaniels, who went from a solid Top 100 prospect after a productive junior campaign at Federal Way (Federal Way, Wash.), to the talk of the summer recruiting scene and exploding into a top five prospect after starring for Seattle Rotary on the EYBL circuit.
It's easy to see why national scouts like his long-term potential: a sinewy frame with a quick second jump to alter shots, soft hands, good ball-handling ability at his size that he uses for dribble pull-ups and the ability to post up and create space near the elbows.
That ability was on full display during the first round of the Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas, as the Eagles opened the Platinum Division with a hard-fought 54-45 victory over Bishop O'Dowd (Oakland, Calif.). Federal Way, currently No. 24 in the FAB 50 National Rankings, remained unbeaten despite McDaniels' major foul trouble.
It's just another learning experience for a young man with a quiet demeanor who has been thrust into the national spotlight in the past six months. He's also still undecided for college, with Kentucky, San Diego St., Texas,?UCLA, Washington as his finalists, and that can easily add to the constant questions and distractions during the high school season.
"I'm just worried about getting better and not focused on recruiting...just focusing on us playing well as a team," said McDaniels following Federal Way's first round victory. "All my official visits went well, it was a good experience."
The road to the top is bound to have some bumps, and McDaniels is far from a finished product, but that's what national scouts are most excited about. With hard work, his best days are ahead of him.
McDaniels' foul trouble versus Bishop O'Dowd meant two long spells on the bench. He did block a couple of shots, but when he re-entered the game with 7:46 remaining and his team leading 46-38 he didn't score again, finishing with six points and four rebounds, as he fouled out with 3:01 remaining on a bang-bang charge-block call in the backcourt.
McDaniels' teammates, particularly senior guard Jishai Miller and athletic junior forward Tari Eason, picked up the slack as the Eagles advanced to play Chino Hills (Calif.) and highly-regarded USC commit Onyeka Okongwu. And that's what matters most to McDaniels right now, his team advancing and getting another opportunity.
The No. 4 prospect in the 247Sports.com rankings does get knocked off his desired spot by smaller defenders that can get under him and he could attack the glass with more fervor, but there is plenty a veteran evaluator can point out about a majority of the top prospects. It's about recognizing any shortcomings and addressing them, and McDaniels has a solid idea of how to keep things in perspective and where to go from here.
"I feel I'm more assertive of defense and I'm just trying to be a better teammate all-around," McDaniels said about what he's worked on to improve the most.
McDaniels was ranked No. 89 by 247Sports.com following his junior season then moved up to No. 10 in mid-May. He then went to?No. 4 in August following the July live evaluation period. Was it a case of increased exposure or an improvement in overall game when it came to McDaniels?
"It wasn't a case of exposure...everything improved, from his body, athleticism and skill," said Evan Daniels, 247Sports.com Director of Scouting.
It's not as if a meteoric rise is unprecedented in grassroots basketball or if McDaniels came out of nowhere, as he averaged 21.3 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 4.6 apg, 3.3 bpg for a Class 4A state-runner up team in 2017-18. Ironically, McDaniels doesn't really know the history of the fast-rising prospects in grassroots history, but if his career comes even close to following the trajectory of the terrific players chronicled below, he'll be just fine.
"No, I don't know the history of guys like Tracy McGrady, but the exposure (as a highly-regarded prospect) has been really fun," McDaniels said. "Just playing against the top players, getting that opportunity, is what it was all about."
Below are five terrific players who "blew up" at various times in their high school careers. All five went on to great success at the next levels of the game:
Anthony Davis (Perspectives Charter, Chicago) 6-9 PF '11
Prior to the spring of 2010, no one outside of Chicago really knew about this budding prospect, as Davis did not play in the traditional grassroots system until he was a rising junior. He was a thin 6-foot-4 prospect as a sophomore and grew three inches going into his junior year. It wasn't until the spring of 2010 that the 6-foot-9 Davis showed the country glimpses of what he is today: one of the NBA's best players with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Before a spurt that saw him grow 7-8 inches over two years, Davis was toiling at a small charter school in the Chicago Public League. By the first session of Nike EYBL for Meanstreets at Boo Williams, Davis' name was quickly spreading across the country as a franchise-type talent. He went from national obscurity in March 2010 to "he's a Top 5 national prospect" at the Bill Hensley Memorial Run-n-Slam All-Star Classic in Indiana in early May.
Davis was ranked by HOOP SCOOP as the top performer at the NBA Players Association Top 100 Camp in June, and a top three player at both the LeBron James King City Classic and NIKE Peach Jam. He was the player of the summer in 2010, but by the end of it, it wasn't hard to see Davis was the best player in the country.
Larry Johnson (Skyline, Dallas) 6-5 PF '87
Thirty years ago club and high school basketball in Texas just didn't have a tremendous reputation as a talent-laden region that it does today. Football was (and still is) king, but even spring football rated above hoops in the eyes of many Texans back then.
Johnson was a man child at Skyline, but the rest of the country simply hadn't seen him. Legendary Skyline head coach J.D. Mayo started the 6-foot-2, 190-pounder on the freshman team for the first game, but that same day he decided to insert him into the varsity lineup and immediately knew he had something special on his hands. Johnson started every game of his four-year career and Mayo desperately wanted the nation's most respected talent scouts to come check out Johnson.
Longtime talent scout?Bob Gibbons of All-Star Sports had Johnson at No. 49 in the country based on his reputation. Guard LaBradford Smith of Bay City had the big reputation in Texas' 1987 class and forward Marcus Liberty of King (Chicago) had the biggest reputation nationally and big guard Eric Manual of Southwest (Macon, Ga.) was also in the discussion as the top prospect. Johnson's rep, however, was spreading like wildfire in the spring and summer of 1986.
In a poll of top evaluators that summer, Rick Bolus of High Potential Recruiting Service had Johnson No. 19, Chris Wallace of The Blue Ribbon Yearbook had him No. 6, Brick Oettinger of ACC Poop Sheet and Clark Francis of the Hoop Scoop pegged him at No. 7. The Hoop Scoop later named him its "Sleeper of the Summer" but it's kind of comical to label a top 10 prospect a sleeper. Gibbons' logic seemed to permeate Johnson's meteoric rise; he later confided to Johnson and others the powerful kid from South Dallas was probably the best player in the country, but how good could any recruiting list be if a player went up 50 spots to No. 1 in one single glimpse?
Johnson lived up to his tremendous billing, averaging 29 points and 19 rebounds as a Skyline senior after signing with SMU during the early period. He was later named Mr. Basketball USA over Liberty and Manual before being a two-time National JUCO Player of the Year after fallout of his SAT score in light of SMU's Death Penalty ruling in football.
He was being touted as a sure-fire NBA prospect as a junior college player, led UNLV to the NCAA title in 1989-90 and was the NCAA Player of the Year the following season. He was also NBA Rookie of the Year in 1991-92 after being selected No. 1 overall by the Charlotte Hornets before back injuries slowed his pro career.
Tracy McGrady (Mt. Zion Christian, Durham, N.C.) 6-7 SF '97
T-Mac is the poster child for using a grassroots game or event to springboard from unknown to top of the class. In the case of McGrady, he truly wasn't on anyone radar during his junior season at Auburndale High in Florida. Forget Top 100, he wasn't in anyone's Top 500 prior to getting an invite to attend Sonny Vaccaro's?adidas ABCD Camp in July 1996. Vacarro, the camp founder and director, was pestered by Florida talent scout Alvis Smith to take a chance on the unknown talent by extending him an invite to the prestigious camp. Vaccaro was a bit leery, but the rest, as they say, is history.
No. 175 was the talk of the camp. Veteran talent scouts couldn't believe their eyes. The myth lives on that McGrady was the No. 175 ranked player in camp and the last player to get a jersey, but the reality is he wasn't even in the Top 500. Five days later, he was the No. 1 overall prospect in the country.
McGrady was No. 5 in the camp in scoring (16.5 ppg), tied with Lamar Odom at No. 3 in rebounding (7.8 rpg), No. 2 in steals (2.1) and No. 1 in blocked shots (2.1). He simply was the best player in a talented camp from start to finish. For his senior season, he transferred to Mt. Zion and continued the dominance in a major high school basketball setting.
Odom, who was rated the No. 1 player in the country before ABCD and the other player nationally who could match McGrady talent-wise, was the only other serious National Player of the Year candidate as Mt. Zion won a major tourney title (Las Vegas Holiday Prep Invitational) in which Odom’s team also was involved and lost to T-Mac's team.
McGrady finished his senior season with numbers of 22.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game for a team that finished 26-2 and No. 4 in the National Prep Poll (FAB 50 precursor). McGrady was the No. 9 pick of the 1997 NBA Draft and during his NBA Hall of Fame speech 20 years later talked about his No. 175 at ABCD and personally singled out and thanked Vaccaro for the opportunity.
Shaquille O'Neal (Cole, San Antonio, Texas) 6-11 C '89
Similar to Larry Johnson, O'Neal was unknown nationally prior to the Houston Shootout following his junior season. Talent scouts had a chance to see O'Neal the summer prior at the BCI Tournament in Tempe, Ariz., and if they happened to take a look what they saw was a 6-foot-7 nondescript power forward. Nobody paid attention, but all that quickly changed.
"Shaq was 6-foot-7 as a rising junior going into BCI, but he grew four inches and all of a sudden you had something, and he kept growing," said veteran scout Van Coleman at Tarkanian Classic, who attended BCI in the summer of 1988 as the recruiting world awaited O'Neal's games.
By all accounts, O'Neal was terrific at the Houston Shootout and had heavyweight college coaches such as Eddie Sutton (Kentucky), Joey Meyer (DePaul), Dean Smith (North Carolina) and Digger Phelps (Notre Dame) following his every move at BCI. Nobody was disappointed who saw him as the skinny 6-foot-11 prospect who wore a size 18 shoe and was still 16 until January 1989 quickly ascended to No. 2 in the national class, behind New York City point guard legend Kenny Anderson, in a matter of two events.
In reality, all the college coaches that clamored for O'Neal services were late to the ball game. LSU's Dale Brown first saw him two years earlier at a coaching clinic and mistook the 14-year old for an active serviceman. The relationship Brown forged with the youngster paid off, as O'Neal went to LSU and was a two-time All-American and the No. 1 pick in the 1992 NBA Draft after being named MVP of both the McDonald's All-American Game and Dapper Dan Roundball Classic following his senior season. He realistically could have been the No. 1 pick in both 1990 and 1991 and went on to become the most dominant center of the "modern" NBA.
Bill Walton (Helix, San Diego, Calif.) 6-11 C '70
There wasn't a complex grassroots system in place in the summer of 1969 or Walton might have blown up in similar fashion to T-Mac or Anthony Davis. He had a good junior season for Helix, but Reseda (Calif.) guard Greg Lee, who was the big name in California at that time and on the cover of Cal Prep Basketball Magazine, and forward Keith Wilkes of Santa Barbara (Calif.),who was the 1969 State Player of the Year by Cal-Hi Sports as a junior, also received a good amount of hype. That all changed early in Walton's senior year when Helix went to challenge some of Southern California's best teams in the Covina Tournament of Champions.
Against a very good Pasadena (Calif.) team in the title game, Walton had tournament single-game records of 50 points and 34 rebounds in a 110-68 rout. Walton made 18-of-24 shots from the field, 14-of-16 free throws and added nine blocked shots. Nobody in attendance could believe how good the tall kid from San Diego was. One of the coaches in attendance was UCLA assistant Denny Crum, John Wooden's chief recruiter who later led Louisville to two NCAA titles. What transpired was one of the most famous conversations in grassroots history.
“I just saw the greatest high school player I’ve ever seen,” Crum told Wooden.
“Better than Lewis (Alcindor)?” Wooden asked.
“Yeah,” Crum said.
“Keep your voice down and close the door,” Wooden snickered.
Crum's evaluation turned out to be not far from the truth, as Walton had a senior season for the ages. He averaged 29 points, grabbed 825 rebounds (still a state record), good for a 25.0 average, as Helix finished 33-0 and extended its winning streak to 49 consecutive games with Walton in the lineup. Tom McMillen of Mansfield (Pa.) garnered most of the national headlines and was the Sports Illustrated cover boy as a high school player, but it wasn't a secret among college coaches that Walton was the real deal. He went on to immortality at UCLA, leading the Bruins to two NCAA titles before going on to win NBA Championships with Portland in 1977 and Boston in 1986.
Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at?[email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter:?@RonMFlores
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]]>Bishop Gorman has won seven straight Nevada state championships, but that didn't matter to the relatively young club at Coronado (Henderson, Nev.) on Thursdays night in the season opener for both teams. The Cougars gave Gorman all it could handle, even taking a 48-46 lead on a 3-pointer by 6-foot-1 freshman guard Richard Isaacs Jr., after trailing 44-42 at halftime. Coronado ran out of gas down the stretch and the deeper Gaels won going away.
Coronado stayed in the game behind the inside play of 6-foot-5 junior forward Tyrelle "Fat Daddy" Hunt, who muscled his way inside to 16 points and seven rebounds in the first half. Most of his finishes with off pretty feeds from 6-foot-4 sophomore guard Jaden Hardy, who had seven assists in the first half.
Gorman vs. Coronado Turning Point
In the first half, Bishop Gorman's Isaiah Cottrell, a 6-foot-9 junior center and a key to its fortunes this season, got into foul trouble and didn't convert a single field goal, as he scored on a single free throw. It was a completely different story in the second half, as Cottrell scored on a variety of half hooks and inside power moves. He scored 19 points in the second half and finished with 20 points.
Bishop Gorman received a terrific outing from 6-foot-4 sophomore shooting guard Will McClendon, who nailed four 3-pointers and finished with 25 points while providing a defensive spark throughout. Junior guard Noah Taitz netted 18 points for the Gaels, and hit clutch shots at key moments of the game. Hunt finished with a game-high 26 points and 11 rebounds while Hardy, one of the top-rated sophomores in the country, finished with 17 points.
Elite Freshman Debuts On TV
It's not often an elite high school player makes his high school basketball debut on national television, but that was the case for Isaacs Jr.. Arguably the top freshman guard on the fall Pangos Frosh/Soph Camp tour, Isaacs showed why he's so highly-regarded in the national Class of 2022. He scored nine points on three field goal attempts in the first half and displayed the ability to distribute at a high level and create his own offense off the dribble. He finished with 15 points, but like the rest of his Coronado teammates, wishes a couple of his shot attempts down the stretch had fallen.
In addition to Isaacs, here are other top impact freshmen (Class of 2022) on FAB 50 ranked teams or considered among the best in the country (listed alphabetically):
?Henri Adrissa, Crossroads (Santa Monica, Calif.) 6-10 C
?Dylan Anderson, Perry (Chandler, Ariz.) 6-10 F
?Emoni Bates, Lincoln (Ypsilanti, Mich.) 6-8 F
?Jameel Brown, Haverford School (Philadelphia) 6-3 G
?Zion Cruz, Hudson Catholic (Hudson, N.J.) 6-3 G
?Jaylen Drane, Simeon (Chicago) 6-2 G
?Jalen Duren, Roman Catholic (Philadelphia) 6-9 F
?Bryce Griggs, Provision Academy (Houston) 6-1 G
?Isaiah Griffith, Patrick School (Elizabeth, N.J.) 6-0 G
?Jett Howard, University School (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) 6-4 G
?Joseph "Jo Jo" Hunter, San Joaquin Memorial (Fresno, Calif.) 6-3 G
?Khamari Lands, La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) 6-6 F
?Chris Livingston, Buchtel (Akron, Ohio) 6-5 F
?M.J. Rice, Durham Academy (Creedmore, N.C.) 6-5 F
?Nick Smith, Sylvan Hills (Sherwood, Ark.) 6-3 G
?Jarace Walker, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) 6-4 F
?Jalen Washington, Westside (Gary, Ind.) 6-7 F
?Dariq Whitehead, Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) 6-5 F
?Kijani Wright, Windward (Los Angeles) 6-8 F
2018-2019 GEICO High School Basketball Showcase Schedule Breakdown
(Listed with current FAB 50 ranking)
Bishop Gorman won't appear again on national television, but will appear on the ESPN+ streaming service twice next week at the Hoophall West event in Scottsdale, Ariz. The Gaels will face No. 16 Guyer (Denton, Texas) on December 7 and No. 41 Gonzaga Prep (Spokane, Wash.) the following day. Guyer is not a tall team by national standards, but Texas' top-ranked team is battle-tested and will give Bishop Gorman all it can handle. Cottrell will have his hands full inside with Gonzaga-bound Anton Watson of Gonzaga Prep, which will likely face No. 30 Federal Way down the line for a Washington state crown. For these teams, however, there's still a ways to go before worrying about playoff scenarios. Below is a breakdown of what to expect in the rest of the nationally-televised ESPN contests.
San Joaquin Memorial (Fresno, Calif.) vs. Pinnacle (Phoenix, Ariz.), 12/6, 9 pm ET
Both teams were on the FAB 50 bubble this week, but San Joaquin Memorial already suffered a home loss this week to Northern California power Bishop O'Dowd (Oakland, Calif.). Talented junior Jalen Green played terrific in two games to open the season at the Thanksgiving Hoopfest, but didn't shoot well from the field in the loss to O'Dowd. Pinnacle, which features highly-rated point guard Nico Mannion, will look to coral Green and hopes he tries to get in an individual duel with its Arizona-bound guard. Pinnacle is 5-0 to begin the season, and had a big test Friday night vesus FAB 50 No. 18 Shadow Mountain (Phoenix, Ariz.).
In a battle of defending AIA state champions, Pinnacle won at the buzzer, 82-81, as Mannion (37 points) made a miraculous 30-footer with two defenders draped all over him to win the emotional game at home. Pinnacle's victory snapped Shadow Mountain's 73-game winning streak against in-state AIA opponents and sets up an interesting game next week for Pinnacle versus a San Joaquin Memorial team that is coming off a tough loss at the buzzer. Will Pinnacle be emotionally up for that game? As if that's not enough, two nights later on Saturday Pinnacle's game with No. 23 Rancho Christian just got much bigger in significance.
Nico Mannion with the crazy game winner tonight vs Shadow Mountain!! @niccolomannion pic.twitter.com/7ifoiZueu0
— www.ebooksnet.com (@Ballislife) December 1, 2018
Mayfair (Lakewood, Calif.) at No. 7 Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.), 1/4/19, 11:30 pm ET
Sierra Canyon will be a big favorite at home in a game that will feature highly-regarded junior guard Josh Christopher of Mayfair. Sierra Canyon will likely already have met No. 5 La Lumiere and/or top-ranked Montverde Academy at the Iolani Classic in Hawaii before Christmas. Regardless of the outcome of the December games, from a FAB 50 perspective, this is a must-win for Sierra Canyon.
No. 23 Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.) vs. No. 15 Memphis East (Memphis, Tenn.), 1/11, 9 pm ET
This game will pit the Mobley brothers, senior Isaiah and top-rated junior Evan, versus Memphis recruits James Wiseman (7-0) and Malcolm Dandridge (6-8). Memphis East has played well in the early season behind new coach Jevonte Holmes. Penny Hardaway may be at Memphis, but East's talent level remains high. We'll know plenty about Rancho Christian by how it fares at the Tarkanian Classic (Dec. 18-22), where it could meet No. 30 Federal Way in the semifinals with host Bishop Gorman, No. 33 Whitney Young (Chicago) and No. 36 Sheldon (Sacramento, Calif.) in the opposite bracket.
No. 4 IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) vs. No. 2 Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.), 1/20, 7:30 pm ET
This is a big game with potential FAB 50 title implications, but it could be a really big one for one of the clubs. That's because each team is in the bracket of the City of Palms Classic in Ft. Myers, Fla. in December. The game could be a rematch of a potential City of Palms title game or, a revenge game for the team that loses or fails to advance. Perhaps neither team makes it to the title game and then this game takes on even more significance.
No. 30 Federal Way (Wash.) vs. No. 13 Ranney School (Tinton Falls, N.Y.), 1/21, 11 am ET
Jaden McDaniels of Federal Way has quickly risen among the elite of the 2019 class and this could be a pivotal moment for his Mr. Basketball USA candidacy and Federal Way's national standing. McDaniels will need to have a productive outing matching up against fellow 2019 elites Scottie Lewis and Bryan Antoine of Ranney School. Ranney School has more big stage experience, but if Federal Way fares well at the Tarkanian Classic, this could turn into a game with major rankings ramifications.
No. 23 Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.) vs. No. 11 McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.), 1/21, 1 pm ET
The Eagles play one of the toughest schedules in the county and will be a top two seed at both Tarkanian Classic and The Classic at Damien before the New Year. Afterwards coach Ray Barefield's club will travel to West Memphis, Ark. for the Memphis East game and faces a talented Santa Margarita (Calif.) club the very next day on January 12 back in Southern California. McEachern is battle-tested with a talented roster and will be highly-motivated regardless of Rancho Christian's won-loss record coming in. If that's not enough, Rancho Christian will head to the Montverde Academy Invitational in Florida on a short week.
No. 7 Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) vs. No. 1 Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.), 1/21, 3 pm ET
This could be a rematch of the Iolani Classic title game, where it looks like Sierra Canyon will face bubble club Oak Ridge (Orlando, Fla.) in the quarterfinals with a potential matchup with La Lumiere in the semifinals. Montverde Academy will for sure be playing La Lumiere at the Cancer Research Classic on January 5 and plays No. 8 Sunrise Christian Academy and No. 9 Paul VI (Fairfax, Va.) at the ARS National Hoopfest at DeMatha Catholic in Maryland on December 7-8. Sierra Canyon has the talent to play with the Eagles, but will be at a size disadvantage inside.
No. 5 La Lumiere (LaPorte, Ind.) vs. No. 3 DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.), 1/21, 5 pm ET
The Stags have their best shot at a mythical FAB 50 title in a generation and this could turn out to be a must-win for coach Mike Jones' club. DeMatha plays in a tough conference (probably the nation's toughest) and La Lumiere plays a tough national schedule as well. These two teams matchup quite well and whomever wins the Hunter Dickinson (DeMatha) vs. Isaiah Stewart (LaLu) matchup will be in good shape in this one. Since DeMatha is going to have to beat the ranked teams in the WCAC more than once, a win over an independent program will be key to its national title hopes since the WCAC has not yet participated in GEICO Nationals.
No. 8 Sunrise Christian Academy (Kan.) at No. 17 University School (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.), 1/25, 7:30 pm
University School opened the season with a loss and Sunrise Christian Academy already owns an impressive win over No. 16 Guyer (Denton, Texas) to move into the Top 10 this week. Obviously 2017-18 National Junior of the Year Vernon Carey Jr. versus N'Faly Dante of Sunrise Christian Academy is a primetime matchup, but the verdict is still out on University School's backcourt play. That means the production of Scottie Barnes will be key because Sunrise Christian's backcourt is strong, even after it lost SMU recruit Bryce Cook to a stroke last week.
No. 1 Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.) vs. No. 2 Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.), 2/2, 7:30 pm ET
Obviously if the rankings hold up, this will be the biggest game of the regular season as these two powerhouse programs will meet in the regular season for the first time since meeting in the finals of the 2010 Iolani Classic (58-44 Oak Hill victory) the year before Kevin Boyle took over the Montverde Academy program. These two programs have been in the national title hunt each season for the past decade so this game will be important because each program doesn't want to lose to another under any circumstances. Both teams are off to strong starts this season and if the rankings hold up, the winner won't gloat because it will know there is a strong possibility it will need to get past the loser a second time at GEICO Nationals. Montverde Academy will look to slow down Oak Hill's Cole Anthony and Cam Thomas in the backcourt. On the flip side, The Warriors will have to control the boards and keep Kofi Cockburn out of foul trouble.
Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores
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RELATED: All-Time Mr. Basketball USA Winners | Final 2017-18 Mr. Basketball USA Tracker | Anthony Edwards Reclassifies To 2019 Class
Plenty of factors go into an individual award such as high school basketball national player of the year and one of the biggest ones is opportunity. A majority of the top candidates over the years played for winning programs and had the opportunity to perform against other quality teams and players. Those two facts went a long way in determining the top national player of the year candidates in the preseason 2018-19 Mr. Basketball USA Tracker powered by www.ebooksnet.com.
The evidence is clear reviewing the 2018-19 preseason ballots of the 10-man Mr. Basketball USA Tracker panel of national scouts. As the 2018-19 season tips off, the most highly-regarded senior point guard on the nation's No. 2 ranked team in the preseason FAB 50 National Team Rankings is the top vote-getter over last season's National Junior of the Year. Cole Anthony, the top player for No. 2 Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.), is the leading vote-getter for the nation's most prestigious individual honor and the only player among 22 candidates to appear on all ten ballots. Anthony collected 81 points, including 20 points as the top vote-getter on two ballots, to best 6-foot-9 senior Vernon Carey of FAB 50 No. 5 University School (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) by seven points (74).
Carey was the only other player besides Anthony to appear on at least nine ballots and received the most first-place votes (four). There were six players who received a first-place vote: Carey, Anthony and one vote apiece for 7-foot junior Evan Mobley of FAB 50 No. 24 Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.), 6-foot-11 senior James Wiseman of FAB 50 No. 25 Memphis East (Memphis, Tenn.), 6-foot-5 junior Anthony Edwards of No. 35 Holy Spirit Prep (Atlanta), and 6-foot-8 Precious Achiuwa of FAB 50 No. 1 Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.).
In what could make for the most exciting Mr. Basketball USA race in recent memory, the Mr. Basketball Tracker panel has varying opinions on whom could emerge as the top player in the country after some recent season where it was a lot more obvious whom that player was (i.e. Ben Simmons in 2015). While all of the above mentioned candidates are impact players on nationally-ranked teams, only Anthony is a point guard and the panel is of the general consensus that his play is key in his team's success, which will ultimately impact his individual honors.
"First thing, Cole Anthony is very important to Oak Hill and the national schedule it plays," said panel member and McDonald's All-American voter Van Coleman, the TheBasketballChannel.net VP of Content who was one of four voters to place Carey No. 1. "He is going to have the ball in his hands, so there is an advantage there in terms of his potential production. He's going to have pressure, too, because it's up to him to get Oak Hill's other players involved and get them to perform at a level to be in the discussion at the end of the season. If they enter GEICO Nationals unbeaten or with one loss, he's going to be right there (in the race)."
How a candidate performed the previous summer and high school season are important factors in determining the preseason pecking order among elite players. Last season, Carey led University School to a 35-2 record and No. 2 ranking in the final FAB 50 by averaging 26.1 ppg and 10.4 rpg. He shined at GEICO Nationals, including a 13-of-16 from the field, 29-point performance in the semifinal win over No. 3 Oak Hill Academy and finished No. 3 in last year’s final tracker behind eventual Mr. Basketball USA honoree R.J. Barrett and runner-up Zion Williamson, who are arguably the best two NCAA players at Duke University. Anthony, who finished No. 20 in last season's final tracker, didn't have quite the level of production at Archbishop Malloy (Queens, N.Y.) that Carey did for his high school team, but turned it on over the summer to surpass Carey in the preseason balloting. Anthony was named Most Valuable Player on the 2018 Nike EYBL circuit, averaging 26.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.4 steals over 16 EYBL games for the PSA Cardinals travel ball club.
The panel understands for Carey, some of the shine may be taken by his own teammate (small forward Scottie Barnes) and the group really likes Mobley, who some feel is the best overall prospect in the country, but understand his older brother Isaiah Mobley is on the team and put up better statistics last season and like the other top inside players, is dependent on guards getting them the ball. Anthony doesn't have those variables to deal with.
"By the end of the summer, Vernon Carey was production-wise, the easy choice as top big man," said Coleman. "Evan Mobley is the better prospect, but doesn't mean that Carey, James Wiseman, Anthony and Anthony Edwards aren't going to be good pros."
Coleman had high praise for Mobley, even though he didn't peg him as his No. 1 national player of the year candidate, favorably comparing the Rancho Christian junior to 1995 Mr. Basketball USA Kevin Garnett. Mobley garnered four second-place votes, but did not appear at all on two ballots.
"He's Kevin Garnett with better range," Coleman said. "Kevin didn't have a jumper at that point. He dominated with length and desire. Again, I'm comparing junior to junior, not what Kevin would become to be when he did have a jump shot."
Achiuwa, who collected a first-place vote but only appeared on two ballots, was one of two Monterde Academy players to receive a vote. The other was 6-foot-6 junior Cade Cunningham, who collected five points after finishing No. 6 on one ballot. Carey and Barnes, who appeared on three ballots, were the only other set of teammates to appear among the 22 candidates. Carey will narrow his college choice down to three programs this week, Anthony is undecided and Wiseman, who is the No. 1 prospect in the nation according to 247Sports.com, will make his college choice November 20.
So will Anthony (literally) control his own destiny, or will Carey's production move him to the top of the list by the end of the season? Can Mobley or another candidate overcome some of the shortcomings their candidacy's possess? One thing is for sure, it will be exciting to see how it unfolds as the Mr. Basketball USA race is for the taking.
Stay logged in to www.ebooksnet.com to track the progress of the nation's top individual players and the nation’s Top teams.
Editor's Note: Click on the "+" sign next to each player's number to view how many first, second, third or fourth place votes he got and his overall point total.
| Rank | Prev. | Name | High School | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20 | Cole Anthony (10) | Oak Hill (VA) | 2 | 3 | 1 | 3 | 81 |
| 2 | 3 | Vernon Carey (9) | University School (FL) | 4 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 74 |
| 3 | NR | Evan Mobley (8) | Rancho Christian (CA) | 1 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 64 |
| 4 | NR | Anthony Edwards (6) | Holy Spirit (GA) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 45 |
| 5 | NR | Isaiah Stewart (6) | La Lumiere (IN) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 35 |
| 6 | 14T | James Wiseman (4) | Memphis East (TN) | 1 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 34 |
| 7 | NR | Jaden McDaniels (4) | Federal Way (WA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 19 |
| 8 | 17T | Jalen Green (3) | San Joaquin Memorial (CA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 18 |
| 9 | 12T | Onyeka Okongwu (3) | Chino Hills (CA) | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 18 |
| 10T | NR | Scottie Barnes (3) | University School (FL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 17 |
| 10T | NR | Precious Achiuwa (2) | Montverde Academy (FL) | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 17 |
| 12T | NR | Jonathan Kuminga (2) | Our Savior New American (NY) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9 |
| 12T | 17T | Nico Mannion (1) | Pinnacle (AZ) | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 9 |
| 14T | NR | Armando Bacot (1) | IMG Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 |
| 14T | NR | Patrick Baldwin (1) | Hamilton (WI) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 |
| 14T | 17T | Scottie Lewis (1) | Ranney School (NJ) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 |
| 17T | NR | R.J. Hampton (1) | Little Elm (TX) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| 17T | NR | Tyrese Maxey (1) | South Garland (TX) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| 19 | NR | Cade Cunningham (1) | Montverde Academy (FL) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 |
| 20T | NR | Sharife Cooper (1) | McEachern (GA) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| 20T | NR | Matthew Hurt (1) | Marshall (MN) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| 20T | NR | Khalil Whitney (1) | Roselle Catholic (NJ) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
About Mr. Basketball USA Tracker Panel
www.ebooksnet.com's panel of 10 experts, which includes six McDonald’s All-American selection committee members, casts its vote for the top national player of the year candidates. Each panelist lists his top seven candidates regardless of class. The votes are then tabulated on a 10-point scoring system with a first-place vote equaling 10 points, a second-place vote earning nine points and down to four points for a seventh-place vote. The number in parenthesis refers to the numbers of ballots on which a player appeared and previous rankings refers to position in last season's final tracker.
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Note: The FAB 50 powered by www.ebooksnet.com is a continuation of the National Sports News Service ratings that began in 1952. These were the first national high school rankings and the late Art Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They were compiled for many years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 19 years ago.
Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 National
Team Rankings Powered by www.ebooksnet.com
By Ronnie Flores
(Final 2017-18 ranking in parentheses; *Indicates forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Indicates forfeits and defaults not included; Look for preseason Region-By-Region Top 20 Rankings on Wednesday, November 7 and for the preseason Mr. Basketball USA Tracker on Monday, November 19.)
RELATED: Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (1-15) | Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (16-30) |Preseason East Region Top 20 | Preseason Southeast Region Top 20 | Preseason Midwest Region Top 20 | Preseason Southwest Region Top 20 | Preseason West Region Top 20
31. (NR) Federal Way (Federal Way, Wash.) 27-2
Key Players: SF Jaden McDaniels 6-10 2019 (No. 4 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Jalen Womack 6-0 2019, PG Pierre Crockwell 5-11 2019, PF Tari Eason 6-7 2020 (No. 104 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: The Eagles have a shot to be this season’s Nathan Hale of Seattle, a team with a potentially great player, and a strong supporting cast that wins the key games and moves up the ranking charts, In 2016-17, Hale began at No. 38, and Michael Porter Jr. (now in the NBA) posted a social media comment on how that ranking was too low, and he turned out to be correct as Hale went undefeated and claimed the FAB 50 crown. We’re not predicting a mythical national title for the Eagles, but McDaniels (21.3 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 4.6 apg, 3.3 bpg) is that game-changing, elite talent that could lead Federal Way to a memorable season. Big performances by McDaniels in key games and this team could rise and he could garner Mr. Basketball USA support. Womack is a returning all-leaguer and D1 prospect. “We are an athletic and cohesive bunch,” coach Jerome Collins said.
The Skinny: Not only does this team have the horses to move up in the rankings, it has plenty of motivation after losing in heart-breaking fashion to No. 42 Gonzaga Prep in the WIAA Class 4A state title game. Gonzaga Prep has plenty of talent returning, too, but we give Federal Way the nod this season because transfers Crockwell, Eason, and Graham could take this team to another level and the schedule will dictate if this team quickly moves up or falls behind the defending state champs. Both of Federal Way’s losses last season were in-state, so in order to move up it’ll have to fare well back East against Woodmere Academy at the Battle in the Big Apple (Dec. 9), versus FAB 50 tile contender Ranney School of New Jersey at the Hoophall Classic (Jan. 21) and make noise at the Tarkanian Classic (Dec. 18-22).
32. (NR) St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) 25-8
Key Players: SF Jonathan Salazar 6-6 2019 (No. 95 Hoop Scoop, Pacific commit), SG Josh Adoh 6-4 2019, SG Christian James 6-3 2019.
Why This Ranking: With their big-game experience and five returning starters, the Braves rate are one of the major contenders to capture the coveted CIF Open Division state title along with No. 48 and Trinity League rival Mater Dei, No. 41 Sheldon, talented Rancho Christian of Temecula and defending champion Sierra Canyon. Salazar (14 ppg, 10 rpg) gives traditional big men complete fits and is one of the most underrated players in the state. Adoh (14 ppg, 5 rpg) was named all-CIF Southern Section while James (10 ppg, 4 rpg, 3 apg) is much improved. Fernando Gomez (6-1, 2019) is one of the best outside shooters in SoCal and players such as Jalen Manson (6-6, 2019), Josh Camper (5-11, 2020) and Scotty Washington (6-4, 2021) provide excellent depth.
The Skinny: National high school hoops followers don’t know how good this team can potentially be, but local SoCal fans and coaches certainly do. An argument can be made the Braves deserve to be ranked higher than Rancho Christian (beat them three times last season) and they likely would be if not for losing a nine-point lead and being outscored 27-2 in the final period versus Chino Hills in the SoCal D1 regional final. This team relies on outside shooting (it went cold versus Chino Hills at the wrong time) and is going to have to not only prove it can overcome bigger teams in the playoffs once again, it must show it has what it takes to capture the rugged Trinity League title. The last time Mater Dei didn’t win a league crown was the same season the National Prep Poll (FAB 50 precursor) was created: 1987-88.
33. (26) Long Island Lutheran (Glen Head, N.Y.) 22-3
Key Players: C Esam Mostafa 6-9 2019, PG Andre Curbelo 6-0 2020 (No. 124 247Sports.com), SF Zed Key 6-8 2020 (No. 123 Rivals.com).
Why This Ranking: Simply put, it’s talent and motivation as the Crusaders have fallen in the New York Federation Class AA title game for two consecutive seasons. Last year’s loss came in hard-to-believe circumstances, as the Crusaders were assessed a technical foul for calling a timeout the scorer’s table and game officials believe they didn’t have (but later proved they did) in a tie ball game and with possession of the ball. The controversy is not why LuHi gets the nod over No. 39 Archbishop Stepinac (its championship foe); it’s because the team was only sounded defeated once (by FAB 50 champ Montverde Academy) all season long and has similar talent in 2018-19.
The Skinny: Coach John Buck, his staff and his players held a silent protest over the result of the semifinal game on the eve of the Feds title game, but the clerical error was not overturned. It’s a likely rallying cry for a team returning starters Curbelo, a standout on Puerto Rico’s 17U team, and Mostafa, the most experienced player on the team. Key impresses with his post scoring work and ability to stretch defenses, while transfer Jalen Celestine (6-5, 2020) is a big-time talent. There are at least four additional D1-bound players on the roster for LuHi, which plays No. 35 Holy Spirit Prep at the Hoophall Classic (Jan. 20) and also competes at the Apparel Challenge, Metro Classic, Hoodie’s House Hoops Classic and Montverde Academy Invitational.
34. (NR) Vashon (St. Louis, Mo.) 21-6
Key Players: PG Mario McKinney 6-2 2019 (No. 125 Rivals.com, Missouri commit), SF Cam’Ron Fletcher 6-6 2020 (No. 34 ESPN.com), SG Kobe Clark 6-6 2020.
Why This Ranking: The Wolverines are talented with depth and would be ranked higher had they won their third consecutive MSHSAA Class 4A state crown last season. Coach Tony Irons has an excellent shot at his third in four seasons with talents such as McKinney (18 ppg, 6 rpg, 4 apg) and Fletcher (12 ppg, 8 rpg, 2 bpg) back in the fold. Clark (8 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg) can play both inside and at guard, while Phillip Russell (5-11, 2020) mans the controls and is capable of double-digit scoring (9 ppg, 5 apg). Donyae McCaskill (6-2, 2019) provides senior leadership and rounds out a balanced (11 ppg, 6 rpg) starting lineup while newcomer Akok Yor (6-9, 2019) provides a much-needed interior presence.
The Skinny: Vashon is quick, athletic and even though it doesn’t have overwhelming size, the Wolverines are tough on the boards. Coach Irons is a bit concerned about the outside shooting and the team will have to learn to effectively attack zone defenses. With the team back en masse, the schedule is a sink or swim affair, as Vashon will compete it six showcases or tournaments involving FAB 50 ranked teams, including the City of Palms Classic, where it opens against FAB 50 title contender University School of Florida, and the Montverde Academy Invitational, which includes highly-regarded Rancho Christian of California, and No. 33 Long Island Lutheran.
35. (NR) Holy Spirit Prep (Atlanta, Ga.) 24-5
Key Players: SG Anthony Edwards 6-5 2020 (No. 2 Hoop Scoop), PF Ahmir Langlais 6-8 2019, PG Deandre Brown-Perry 6-2 2020.
Why This Ranking: The Cougars are two-time defending Georgia Independent School Association (GSHA) Class AAA champs, have a game-changer in their lineup and enough size and talent to make a FAB 50 impact. With Edwards, it’s quite possible coach Keith Evans has the country’s best player in his lineup. The returning all-state selection was MVP of the Under Armour Association this past summer and with his physicality, athleticism and sweet shooting touch he can absolutely dominate a high school game. Transfers Langlais and Brown-Perry will be difference-makers in the big game. Brown-Perry can nail the outside shot and play quality defense.
The Skinny: This team will get plenty of attention this winter, and plays a rugged national schedule. The supporting cast, including players such as Buka Peikrishvili (6-5, 2020), Miles Wallace (5-11, 2019) and Michaiah Jeremiah (6-1, 2019), will have to step up to take pressure off Edwards. The fact some of Edwards’ teammates, old and new, played travel ball together on Atlanta Express should help cohesiveness. That’s important because the Cougars open the season Nov. 10 with FAB 50 title contender McEachern and play GHSA power Wheeler on Nov. 23. They’ll also play in the Chick-Fil-A Classic, where six other FAB 50 ranked teams await, and have matchups with Memphis East, Long Island Lutheran of New York and IMG Academy of Florida after the New Year’s.
36. (BB) Whitney Young (Chicago, Ill.) 28-8
Key Players: PG D.J. Steward 6-1 2020 (No. 60 247Sports.com), PG Tyler Beard 6-0 2020 (No. 57 Rivals.com), SG Myles Baker 6-3 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Dolphins played their best basketball at the right time, knocking off FAB 50 ranked Simeon in the IHSA Class 4A state quarterfinals after losing to the Wolverines in the Chicago Public League semifinals. Whitney Young rates as the preseason team to beat in the CPL, but must begin the season ranked behind No. 34 Vashon (lost to that club in 2017-18) and Bellevue West, the club it fell to in the Class 4A state title game. Steward transfers over from Fenwick and the continuity he developed playing travel ball with Beard should pay dividends against a tough schedule. Baker can contribute up front or in the backcourt and coach Tyrone Slaughter has good depth at his disposal for another championship run.
The Skinny: It’s not an overwhelming year for teams in the CPL, so Whitney Young must keep the loss count lower than last year to move up in the rankings. With the newcomers and role players it shouldn’t be an issue. Grant Newell (6-6, 2021) is already attracting D1 college interest and has plenty of skill and mobility to help the Dolphins in the frontcourt. He knows his job is to crash the boards and be relentless on defense. Keenan Jones (6-4, 2019) is a good spot up shooter and can do a bit of everything for this club. According to Scott Burgess of PrepHoops.com, he could be Whitney Young’s X-factor as the Dolphins navigate a schedule that includes No. 48 Mater Dei at the Chicago Elite Classic and a trip out west to the Tarkanian Classic in Las Vegas, where the Dolphins could potentially face No. 31 Federal Way, highly-regarded Rancho Christian of California and host Bishop Gorman.
37. (NR) Immaculate Conception (Montclair, N.J.) 20-9
Key Players: C Elijah Hutchins-Everett 6-10 2020 (No. 53 ESPN.com), C Clifford Omoruyi 6-11 2020 (No. 53 Hoop Scoop), SG Raejon Figures 6-2 2020 (No. 140 247Sports.com).
Why This Ranking: Similar to No. 36 Whitney Young, the Lions were unranked in the 2017-18 final FAB 50 behind the team it knocked out of the playoffs (in Immaculate Conceptions’ case Hudson Catholic), but deserve to be ranked in front of that team to begin 2018-19. Coach Jimmy Salmon’s club lost big to eventual New Jersey TOC champ Roselle Catholic in the NJISAA Non Public B semifinals and the Lions have enough returning that Immaculate Conception must begin the season behind that club and FAB 50 title contender Ranney School. Salmon returns a whopping ten lettermen and adds transfer Omoruyi from Roselle Catholic to give this club a towering presence underneath. “Immaculate Conception is big and talented,” said long-time New Jersey prep guru Jay Gomes of NJHoops.com.
The Skinny: The Lions are a deserving FAB 50 ranked club, but must prove they can get over the hump in the post-season. The team is fairly young and could take some lumps early, but as a talented backcourt that includes Figures and Zion Bethea (6-3, 2020) matures this club will be a tough out come February. The team will have to grow up and jell in a hurry in order to maintain a lofty ranking, as it opens the City of Palms Classic in Florida on Dec. 18 versus FAB 50 title contender Paul VI of Virginia. If Salmon’s club wins that game, it’s likely McEachern of Georgia in the second round.
38. (NR) Rainier Beach (Seattle, Wash.) 22-7
Key Players: PG Kenny Curtis 5-9 2019, SF Jamon Kemp 6-6 2019 (No. 141 247Sports.com), SF Marjon Beauchamp 6-6 2020 (No. 16 247Sports.com), SF Javion Garrett 6-6 2019.
Why This Ranking: With Jaden McDaniels in its lineup, No. 31 Federal Way will get plenty of national attention, but the Vikings may be top-to-bottom Washington’s most talented team. Some peg Rainier Beach as preseason No. 1 in the state, but we’ll see how the newcomers jell and how this club fares in some key matchups before rating it any higher. The Vikings lost in overtime to cross-town Garfield in an emotionally-charged Class 3A state title game, but added two of Garfield’s best players while Federal Way added two talented Garfield players of its own. “We are athletic, shoot it well and play good defense, but how quickly we come together will be key to our success,” veteran head coach Mike Bethea (552-137) said.
The Skinny: Whenever Rainier Beach has a nationally-ranked outfit, it usually has a plethora of 6-foot-5 to 6-foot-7 athletes that can run like deer and score in transition. This season is no different, as Beauchamp (who was on Nathan Hale’s 2017 FAB 50 No. 1 team) and Kemp bring big-game experience. As if that wasn’t enough, Garrett comes over from cross-town Franklin and fits the same mold. The key to Beach’s success, however, may be returning guard Curtis, who can keep defenses honest with his outside shooting and will be in charge of putting the ball in the correct spots as Trevante Anderson did last season and Kahlil Shabazz the year before. Bethea’s club travels to NorCal to take on No. 41 Sheldon and will participate in the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions in Springfield, Mo. (Jan. 17-19) with the likes of FAB 50 ranked Shadow Mountain of Phoenix, Memphis East, McEachern of Georgia, Belleville West of Illinois and Sunrise Christian Academy of Kansas.
39. (24) Archbishop Stepinac (White Plains, N.Y.) 27-5
Key Players: SG Adrian Griffin Jr. 6-6 2021 (No. 9 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG R.J. Davis 5-11 2020, C Joel Soriano 6-10 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Crusaders return three starters and nine lettermen off a team that captured the state Federation Class AA TOC. Griffin (12.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg) was one of the nation’s best first-year players and could develop into a two-time All-American for coach Patrick Massaroni. Davis (20.8 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 6.0 apg, 1.7 spg) is a terrific all-around talent and can effectively play both guard spots. Eduard Minaya (5-11, 2020) averaged 9.7 ppg and is a perfect compliment to Davis in the backcourt, while Soriano (5.5 ppg, 8.2 rpg) does the dirty work inside.
The Skinny: This balanced team defeated No. 44 South Shore in the Feds title game and deserves to ranked ahead of that club. We didn’t put the Crusaders behind No. 33 LuHi because of the controversy surrounding their TOC semifinal game, but rather because the teams split games and that team has plenty of returning talent, too. We’ll never know how the final 8.3 seconds of that tied game would have played out without the unfortunate technical foul situation, but we do know the CHSAA champs control its own rankings destiny this year. The Crusaders participate in the Slam Dunk Tournament (Dec. 21-23) the Beach Ball Classic in South Carolina (Dec. 26-31) with the likes of No. 43 Scott County and No. 47 St. Edward, and play highly-regarded Roselle Catholic on Jan. 13 at the Empire Invitational.
40. (BB) Greensboro Day (Greensboro, N.C.) 27-7
Key Players: SG Carson McCorkle 6-3 2021 (No. 33 Hoop Scoop), PF Mike Fowler 6-9 2019, PF Josh Taylor 6-8 2020 (No. 127 247Sports.com), PG Cam Hayes 6-2 2021 (No. 20 247Sports.com).
Why This Ranking: With their blend of returning veterans and talented newcomers, the Bengals deserve to be preseason FAB 50 ranked for the fourth consecutive season. In that time span Greensboro Day hasn’t had that singular superstar talent; it wins with depth, discipline and coaching continuity and this year should be more of the same. McCorkle (10.7 ppg, 4 rpg) was an all-conference selection as a freshman and could develop into one of the nation’s best players in the 2021 class. In addition to three returning starters, the defending NCISAA Class 3A champs added three talented newcomers, including Hayes (11.4 ppg, 6.7 apg) and Taylor (12 ppg, 13 rpg). While the Bengals graduated two perimeter starters, they are strong inside with Mike Fowler (6-9, 2019) and Nicholas Evtimov (6-7, 2019).
The Skinny: After an up-and-down 2017-18 regular season, Greensboro Day defeated a talented Wesleyan Christian Academy team it lost to twice during the regular season in the NCISAA Class 3A title game. The program has won back-to-back state crowns (and three in four years) and this team has the ingredients to become the first in program history to win three consecutively. The Bengals are now in Class 4A and on paper it looks like Carmel Christian (which defeated the Bengals last season) is the team to beat in 3A. Veteran coach Freddy Johnson (1,019-290), now in his 42nd season at Greensboro Day, is confident this group could bring the program NCISAA title No. 11. The Bengals will participate at the Phenom Hoops Showcase (Nov. 16-17), will play at the HAECO Invitational after Christmas and meet Carmel Christian on Jan. 10.
41. (BB) Sheldon (Sacramento, Calif.) 29-6
Key Players: PG Xavion Brown 6-1 2020 (No. 143 247Sports.com), SG Kaito Williams 6-2 2019, SF Marcus Bagley 6-6 2020, C Josh Morgan 6-10 2019 (Long Beach St. commit).
Why This Ranking: The Huskies are the defending NorCal open division champions and could be better this year with added depth and plenty of big-game experience. The toughness and big-play ability of graduated Dale Currie will be missed, but Sheldon is not only deeper and bigger, it has better outside shooting than a year ago. Brown, who shined in the state title game versus FAB 50 title contender Sierra Canyon, is one of the most explosive guards nationally in his class and is primed for a breakout season. Justin Nguyen (5-10, 2019) always seems to spark Sheldon by making the right play at the right time. Williams (6-2, 2019) is another backcourt veteran that can get it done on both ends.
The Skinny: A bad fourth quarter (outscored 19-6) was the difference in the CIF state open title game versus Sierra Canyon; had Sheldon won that game it would likely be in the Top 20. Speaking to NorCal coaches, it’s a two-horse race in the region between the Huskies and Modesto Christian and a big drop-off after that. The Crusaders defeated Sheldon in the Sac Joaquin Section D1 title game, and in order to move up in the national rankings the Huskies can’t afford in-region losses. With Bagley, a terrific shooter and the brother of Sacramento Kings rookie Marcus Bagley III, and Morgan, a shot-blocker and rapidly improving player, joining the fold, this team looks to peak in the second half of the season. Sheldon will play in the Tarkanian Classic, Torrey Pines Holiday Classic, face No. 38 Rainier Beach at home Jan. 3 and take on highly-regarded Bishop Gorman at the Coronado MLK Showcase (Jan. 21).
42. (36) Gonzaga Prep (Spokane, Wash.) 27-0
Key Players: SF Anton Watson 6-10 2019 (No. 32 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Gonzaga commit), SG Liam Lloyd 6-4 2020, SG Sheadon Byrd 6-2 2019.
Why This Ranking: Plenty of talent and experience returning off a WIAA Class 4A championship team secures this club a FAB 50 spot. With Watson and Lloyd back, coach Matty McIntyre loves his team’s repeat chances. All Watson did last season was earn league MVP honors for the second consecutive season, earn state tourney MVP honors after scoring 22 points in the title game versus No. 31 Federal Way and average 21.9 ppg and 8.2 rebounds. Lloyd is getting D1 attention and he too had a big state title game (15 points). The return of Byrd (who missed all of last season with an ACL injury) only adds to the athleticism and toughness required to once again keep Federal Way at bay in the state title chase.
The Skinny: The reason the Bullpups are ranked six spots lower than last season’s FAB 50 finish is because that spot was secured by virtue of an undefeated record and it won’t be easy to repeat that feat with the loaded schedule on tap. Should the Bullpups go unbeaten, they’ll finish plenty higher than No. 36. Their ranking will be put to the test when they face highly-regarded Modesto Christian and Bishop Gorman of Las Vegas at Hoophall West (Dec. 7-8). Gonzaga also participates in the Les Schwab Invitational in Oregon after Christmas against the likes of Sierra Canyon of California and University School of Florida. We also have a feeling this team and Federal Way will cross paths once again in the post-season.
43. (43) Scott County (Georgetown, Ky.) 37-2
Key Players: PF Michael Moreno 6-6 2019 (No. 227 247Sports.com), SG Bryce Long 6-2 2019, PG Diablo Stewart 5-10 2019, SG Glenn Covington 6-1 2019.
Why This Ranking: Returns four starters and 10 lettermen off a KHSAA Sweet 16 runner-up team. Moreno, the ringleader on last year’s team, has a great chance to be named all-state for the third time after averaging 20.2 ppg and 10.8 rpg as a junior. According to the Courier-Journal, Moreno enters 2018-19 with 2,073 career points and 1,122 rebounds. This team rallys around its star player and even though it doesn’t have multiple D1 recruits on the roster, the team is unselfish and the players have competed together over a long period of time. Simply put, the Cardinals will be tough to beat.
The Skinny: Scott County would love to move its record to 3-4 in Sweet 16 championship games and has the personnel to do it. The team will miss lone departed starter Cooper Robb (Charlotte), who hit many big post-season shots, but Stewart is ready to step into a bigger leadership role and Long is a deadly 3-pointer shooter. Covington is one of Kentucky’s best Grid-Hoopers and he brings great defensive instincts and toughness to this unit. Scott County’s ranking will be tested when it takes on highly-regarded Olive Branch of Mississippi at the Marshall County Hoopfest (Dec. 1).
44. (NR) South Shore (Brooklyn, N.Y.) 21-9
Key Players: SG Femi Odukale 6-4 2020, SF Kadary Richmond 6-5 2020, C Isaiah Richards 6-9 2019.
Why This Ranking: The Vikings return a host of talent off a team that advanced to the New York Federation Class AA final, where it fell to No. 39 Archbishop Stepinac, 88-76. Coach Shawn Marc only lost three seniors off last year’s roster and returns point guard Dwight Davis Jr. (6-1, 2019), who scored 17 points in the state title game. Odukale is a returning all-City performer and was named MVP of the Public School Athletic League (PSAL) AA title game with 18 points and six rebounds. “We have lots of talent, but cannot beat ourselves,” Marc said.
The Skinny: The defending PSAL champions are still a young unit, but extremely talented, and have an excellent chance to make a rankings splash this season. As Marc stated, this South Shore club must jell and find the right chemistry between the returnees and newcomers. Richards is a double-double waiting to happen, Richmond is another guard with excellent size and Marc is excited about newcomer Philipi Joseph (6-6, 2019), a transfer from CHSAA power Christ the King. The Royals also received FAB 50 consideration, and Jefferson of Brooklyn looks like the main threat to South Shore’s repeat title hopes in the PSAL.
45. (NR) Roman Catholic (Philadelphia, Pa.) 24-6
Key Players: SF Seth Lundy 6-6 2019 (No. 100 Hoop Scoop, Penn St. commit), SG Hakim Hart 6-5 2019 (St. Joseph’s commit), PG Lynn Greer III 6-2 2020 (No. 43 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American).
Why This Ranking: The Cahillites are defending PIAA Class 6A champs and are a more talented and experienced team this season. Third-year coach Matt Griffin welcomes back Lundy, who attacks the rim with a vengeance and brings versatility to the lineup, and Hart, who spends plenty of time inside but can also knock down the outside shot. Hart has tons of upside as a major college guard, but he can rebound and the presence of Jalen Duren (6-9, 2022) should free him up to become even more of a perimeter threat. In the recent USA Basketball Mini-camp is any indication, Duran could develop into the most productive freshman big man in the country.
The Skinny: The talent is in place to move up in the rankings, but we’ll take a cautious approach with the Cahillites because of recent roster changes and last season’s overall loss total. Greer, who averaged 15.3 ppg and scored 20 points in the state title game, left in the off-season for Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. This summer and fall, Roman was preparing and establishing a rotation without him. On October 18, Greer announced he was returning to Griffin’s program, which according to our most trusted Philadelphia insiders, has caused some uncertainty about returnees’ roles. There already is a player defection and it’s something we’ll monitor as the season gets underway. Roman Catholic will eventually settle its rotation and gain some continuity, but it cannot afford any dissention early, as it faces FAB 50 national title contender and defending Class AAAA state champ Imhotep Charter on Dec. 16.
46. (NR) Nicolet (Glendale, Wis.) 16-10
Key Players: PF Jamari Sibley 6-8 2020 (No. 108 Rivals.com), SF Jalen Johnson 6-8 2020 (No. 4 ESPN, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Kobe Johnson 6-1 2021.
Why This Ranking: Similar to No. 45 Roman Catholic, there is an abundance of talent on deck, but some uncertainty of just how the lineup will look during the meat of the schedule. The Knights were a WIAA D2 sectional finalist last season, but could take a big leap forward in 2018-19 if all the pieces come together. Sibley averaged 16.8 ppg and 10.1 rpg and could be even more dominant this year even with no uptick in statistical output. That’s because Jalen Johnson is one of the best juniors in the country and he’s moving over from Sun Prairie, which he led to its first ever WIAA state tourney appearance after averaging 18.6 ppg and 9.8 rpg. His younger brother Kobe Johnson is a talented lead guard and also made the move over to Nicolet, as did Jarrett Henderson (6-8, 2019) from Sheboygan South.
The Skinny: It looked like the Knights were also going to add talented junior guard Desmond Polk from New Berlin West, but he since decided to enroll at FAB 50 power La Lumiere in Indiana, where there isn’t any of the type of transfer eligibility issues that exist within WIAA member programs. The Johnsons can potentially take this team to the next level, but the coaching staff will rely on returnees Sonny Phinisee (5-10, 2019) and David Rosengarden (5-10, 2019) to provide leadership and execution from the backcourt positions. We’ll see how the roster has meshed when the Knights face WCAC powers St. John’s of Washington, D.C. and Paul VI of Virginia on back-to-back nights (Dec. 8-9) at the ARS Hoopfest in our nation’s capital.
47. (NR) St. Edward (Lakewood, Ohio) 26-4
Key Players: SG Grant Huffman 6-3 2020 (No. 166 247Sports.com), PG Montorie Foster 6-1 2020, PF Devontae Blanton 6-5 2020.
Why This Ranking: The Eagles are the final team from the Midwest Region in our rankings right after Nicolet. Veteran coach Eric Flannery (421-117), now in his 23rd season, has a great opportunity to capture state title No. 3 (1998, 2014) with this unit. Pickerington Central might have something to say about that and we also considered La Crosse Central of Wisconsin for this spot. Wingman Huffman should have a standout campaign after missing time with a broken ankle in 2017-18. Foster is the other guard who saw significant minutes as a freshman for Flannery two seasons ago and he’s capable of scoring 20 points or more any given night. Blanton is the important cog inside, but he’s skilled like a 3-man and can also handle the ball when called upon.
The Skinny: Whatever team emerges as Ohio D1 state champ is likely to be ranked higher than this spot in the FAB 50. Pick Central went further in the playoffs last season, but we have a hunch the Eagles can get over the hump this season. Two years ago, the core of this unit reached the OHSAA D1 semifinals with three freshmen and a sophomore in its lineup before falling in the regional semifinals last year. This team showed its potential when it knocked off FAB 50 ranked Solon during the 2017-18 regular season and there is great motivation because of the early playoff loss. The schedule is also a plus with stops at the Lima Tournament, the Beach Ball Classic in South Carolina and the Erie’s Burger King Classic over MLK weekend.
48. (BB) Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) 23-7
Key Players: PG Devin Askew 6-4 2021 (No. 12 Hoop Scoop), C Wilhelm Breidenbach 6-9 2021 (No. 18 ESPN.com), PG Ryan Evans 6-1 2020.
Why This Ranking: The Monarchs are the depending CIF Southern Section Open Division champs and have enough talent, chemistry and veteran coaching to make another serious push at a section crown. This team is young and lost plenty of firepower, including CIFSS open POY Spencer Freedman (Harvard), but Askew is developing into a terrific guard is his own right and is one of the most dominant guards (so far) in the 2021 national class. Breidenbach was all-Trinity League as a freshman and his numbers will double this season as more of a focal point of the offense. “We play well together and have good overall size,” said coach Gary McKnight.
The Skinny: This will be one of the greatest challenges of McKnight’s career to get this team to play at a level good enough to win the Trinity League title, remain FAB 50 ranked and challenge for another section crown. McKnight had teams in the past not expected to win section or CIF state titles that ended up doing so, which makes the program’s track record of success another reason for this rankings spot. St. John Bosco of Bellflower is the early Trinity League favorite, and Orange Lutheran is much improved, but the transfer of Evans and Nick Davidson (6-9, 2020) weaken league member Santa Margarita. Since McKnight took over in 1982-83, his program has won a league crown every season since but one (1987-88), so it will be interesting to see how the league race affects the FAB 50.
49. (6) Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.) 32-5
Key Players: SG P.J. Fuller 6-4 2019 (No. 35 Hoop Scoop, TCU commit), SF Zach Clemence 6-9 2021 (No. 32 Hoop Scoop), SG Sherif Kenney 6-5 2019.
Why This Ranking: Similar to the Pilots’ preseason ranking in 2016-17 when Paul Washington took over the program (No. 29), this team will begin the season lower than normally accustomed to. Findlay Prep is on its sixth coach in eight seasons, but it’s more the talent level than the coaching turnover that causes a low preseason ranking for this program’s standards. There is plenty of pressure on Fuller, who has tons of big-game experience, to score and have a big season offensively. Kenney could develop into the leader new coach Rodney Haddix (a former Findlay player) needs on the court during crunch time. The X-factor could be Clemence, a combo forward who is among the most skilled 2021 players we’ve evaluated around the country. If Raymond Hawkins (6-9, 2019) shows more than flashes and Canadian import Taryn Todd (6-2, 2019) can contribute, this team could quickly move up.
The Skinny: The Pilots have been ranked in the FAB 50 every season since their eligibility began in 2008-09, but this is the least talented roster in program history. Past rosters have often had multiple future NBA players, but that doesn’t necessarily mean this team will end up with its lowest FAB 50 ranking in program history. It means the Pilots will have their work cut out for them and Haddix actually relishes the challenge as he looks to build the program into one that resembles the one he played for under Mike Peck. “I think we’re going to surprise some people,” Haddix said. “We got to be the most collective Findlay team ever and be there for each other to be successful.”
50. (BB) Independence (Charlotte, N.C.) 31-1
Key Players: SF Matt Smith 6-6 2019 (Murray St. commit), PG A.J. McKee 6-3 2019 (Queens College commit).
Why This Ranking: The defending NCHSAA Class 4A state champs nab the final preseason spot as it returns four players with starting experience. Similar to other teams towards the bottom of the FAB 50, the Patriots don’t have overwhelming size or talent, but a group of good high school players who will play somewhere at the next level. Coach Preston Davis, who last season led his program to its first state crown since he was on the playing roster (1996-97), employs a deadly zone defense that suffocates opponents. This season that zone will be even better with the added maturity and experience. McKee had 20 points and two steals in the state title game and Raja Milton (5-11, 2019) is also known for his defense. Miles Pauldin (6-4, 2019) gets it done inside and is as dependable as he is versatile.
The Skinny: We could have went in a number of different directions for the final spot, but we like the Patriots’ blend of talent and gaudy record from a state that has produced quality basketball in recent seasons. We seriously considered Maria Goretti of Hagerstown, Md. (East), a plethora of Southeast teams including Bearden of Knoxville, Tenn., Chicago public league power Simeon (Midwest), Hall of Little Rock, Ark., (Southwest) and Olympus of Salt Lake City, Utah (West). Independence’s ranking will be tested against the loaded field at the Chick-Fil-A Holiday Tournament (Dec. 27-29) and will play FAB 50 ranked Carmel Christian, the only team it lost to last season, on Jan. 19.
RELATED: Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (1-15) | Preseason 2018-19 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason East Region Top 20 | Preseason Southeast Region Top 20 | Preseason Midwest Region Top 20 | Preseason Southwest Region Top 20 | Preseason West Region Top 20
Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores
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Four juniors named to the 24th Annual All-American Elite Team headline a group of 65 elite players selected to the 2017-18 Underclass All-American team powered by www.ebooksnet.com.
Forward Vernon Carey Jr. of FAB 50 No. 2 University School (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.), this year’s National Junior of the Year, was named to the overall All-American first team. Carey was a first five selection, the first junior since DeAndre Ayton of Hillcrest Academy (Phoenix, Ariz.) in 2015-16 to be considered among the nation’s five best players.
Three junior big men were honored as fourth five selections: recent USC pledge and Cal-Hi Sports Mr. Basketball Onyeka Okongwu of Chino Hills (Calif.), James Wiseman, the leading scorer for FAB 50 No. 4 Memphis East (Memphis, Tenn.), and Charles Bassey of Aspire Academy (Louisville, Ky.), the national freshman of the year in 2015-16.
No sophomore or freshman was named to the overall first team. The only sophomore to earn first five honors in the last 24 years under the current selection format is NBA superstar LeBron James while at St. Vincent-St. Mary (Akron, Ohio) in 2000-01.
The four All-Americans and 61 other underclass honorees all had standout campaigns for their respective high school teams, while others are sure to emerge this summer as bona fide 2017-18 All-America candidates. Nearly every summer on the grassroots circuit, well-known players are eclipsed by lesser-known commodities.
It’s a yearly ritual for some underclass All-Americans to change programs and each year, more players are classifying up in order to speed up the recruiting process or join a class that will be more advantageous to their development.
Two talented sophomore All-Americans from Arizona, Kyree Walker of Hillcrest Prep (Phoenix, Ariz.) and Nico Mannion of Class 6A state champ Pinnacle (Phoenix, Ariz.) are expected to join the 2019 class. Junior All-American Ashton Hagans of Newton (Covington, Ga.) has pledged to Kentucky and is expected to join the Wildcats in 2018-19. Another junior who has talked about potentially re-classifying is Jalen Lecque of Christ School (Arden, N.C.).
Expect player movement and some more reclassification as the summer rolls on.
This performance-based squad is selected by National Grassroots Editor Ronnie Flores with input from Mr. Basketball USA panelists. It is chosen after the conclusion of the season, which makes the Underclass All-American Team more reflective of players who made state championship runs.
Our national coach of the year is Josh Luedtke of Creighton Prep (Omaha, Neb.).
Juniors to Watch (2019)
F — Precious Achiuwa, St. Benedict’s (Newark, N.J.) 6-9
G — Bryan Antoine, Ranney School (Eatontown, N.J.) 6-3
G — Cole Anthony, Archbishop Malloy (Queens, N.Y.) 6-2
F — Armando Bacot, Trinity Episcopal (Richmond, Va.) 6-10
C — Charles Bassey, Aspire Academy (Louisville, Ky.) 6-10
F — Vernon Carey Jr., University (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) 6-9
F — Eric Dixon, Abington (Pa.) 6-7
G — Joe Girard III, Glens Falls (N.Y.) 6-1
G — Brycen Goodine, St. Andrew’s (Barrington, R.I.) 6-4
G — Ashton Hagans, Newton (Covington, Ga.) 6-4
G — Jaelen House, Shadow Mountain (Phoenix, Ariz.) 6-1
F — Matt Hurt, John Marshall (Rochester, Minn.) 6-9
F — D.J. Jeffries, Olive Branch (Miss.) 6-7
G — Rylon Jones, Olympus (Salt Lake City, Utah) 6-0
G — Jalen Lecque, Christ School (Arden, N.C.) 6-4
G — Scottie Lewis, Ranney School (Eatontown, N.J.) 6-5
G — E.J. Liddell, Belleville West (Ill.) 6-7
G — Tyrese Maxey, South Garland (South Garland, Texas) 6-3
F — Jaden McDaniels, Federal Way (Federal Way, Wash.) 6-8
G — Justin Moore, DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.) 6-4
F — Wendell Moore Jr., Cox Mill (Concord, N.C.) 6-6
C — Onyeka Okongwu, Chino Hills (Calif.) 6-9
G — Isaac Okoro, McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.) 6-5
F — Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Bishop Miege (Shawnee Mission, Kan.) 6-8
F — Isaiah Stewart, La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) 6-8
G — Marcus Tsohonis, Jefferson (Portland, Ore.) 6-5
F — Trendon Watford, Mountain Brook (Birmingham, Ala.) 6-8
F — Anton Watson, Gonzaga Prep (Spokane, Wash.) 6-7
F — James Wiseman, Memphis East (Memphis, Tenn.) 6-11
F — Romeo Weems, New Haven (Mich.) 6-6
2018 National Junior of the Year: Vernon Carey Jr.
Wasn’t a difficult choice over three talented other big men who also were named to the overall All-American team, as Carey had the best combination of team success and individual production. The son of former Miami Dolphins offensive tackle Vernon Carey, Junior used a nice combination of size and agility to dominate foes inside. Against a rugged schedule, Carey averaged 26.0 ppg, 10.4 rpg and 4 bpg for the No. 2 team in the FAB 50. For his efforts, Carey was named Florida’s Mr. Basketball over a strong in-state class of senior candidates. Carey is the first junior honoree from Florida since Austin Rivers of Winter Park and Brandon Knight of Ft. Lauderdale Pine Crest were honored in 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Sophomores to Watch (2020)
G — Adrian Baldwin, St. Frances (Baltimore, Md.) 5-11
F — Scottie Barnes, University (Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.) 6-7
F — Brandon Boston, Norcross (Ga.) 6-3
F — Greg Brown III, Vandegrift (Austin, Texas) 6-7
F — Jaemyn Brakefield, Huntington Prep (Huntington, W.V.) 6-8
G — Josh Christopher, Mayfair (Lakewood, Calif.) 6-4
G — Sharife Cooper, McEachern (Powder Springs, Ga.) 5-10
G — Cade Cunningham, Bowie (Arlington, Texas) 6-5
F — N’Faly Dante, Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Air, Kan.) 6-11
C — Hunter Dickinson, DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, Md.) 6-11
G — Lynn Greer III, Roman Catholic (Philadelphia, Pa.) 6-3
G — Jalen Green, San Joaquin Memorial (Fresno, Calif.) 6-4
G — R.J. Hampton, Little Elm (Texas) 6-5
F — Jalen Johnson, Sun Prairie (Wis.) 6-7
F — Keon Johnson, The Webb School (Bell Buckle, Tenn.) 6-5
G — Nico Mannion, Pinnacle (Phoenix, Ariz.) 6-2
C — Evan Mobley, Rancho Christian (Temecula, Calif.) 7-0
G — Moses Moody, North Little Rock (Little Rock, Ark.) 6-5
G — Jeremy Roach, Paul VI (Fairfax, Va.) 6-2
G — Jaden Springer, Rocky River (Mint Hill, N.C.) 6-3
F — Julian Strawther, Liberty (Henderson, Nev.) 6-7
G — Jalen Suggs, Minnehaha Academy (Minneapolis, Minn.) 6-3
F — Isaiah Todd, Marshall (Richmond, Va.) 6-9
F — Kyree Walker, Hillcrest Prep (Phoenix, Ariz.) 6-5
F — Terrence Williams, Gonzaga (Washington, D. C.) 6-6
2018 National Sophomore of the Year: Jalen Suggs
Last year’s top player among freshman, Suggs is again the honoree in his class as he edges an impressive group of candidates in what is shaping up as a strong class. A smooth ball-handler who can facilitate and score, Suggs became more of a physical player this season on the boards and on defense in leading the Redhawks to a second consecutive Class 2A state crown. After first starring on the varsity as a seventh-grader, Suggs averaged 17.5 ppg as an eighth-grader and 21.5 ppg last season as a ninth-grader. This past season on a more balanced offensive team, the Grid-Hoop standout averaged 16.0 ppg, 9.2 rpg, 4.5 apg and 3.4 spg for a 28-4 team that didn’t play home games because of a tragic school explosion right before the school year started. Suggs had 27 points, five rebounds and eight assists in the state title game and 19 points and 14 rebounds in a victory over third five All-American Tre Jones and 4A finalist Apple Valley. Jones was named first five A.P. all-state along with three others honored on one of our All-American teams and is Minnesota’s first tenth-grade honoree dating back to the 1974-1975 season.
Freshmen to Watch (2021)
F — Patrick Baldwin Jr., Hamilton (Sussex, Wis.) 6-8
F — Terrence Clarke, The Rivers School (Weston, Mass.) 6-5
C — Michael Foster Jr., Washington (Milwaukee, Wis.) 6-9
G — Adrian Griffin Jr., Archbishop Stepinac (White Plains, N.Y.) 6-4
G — Jaden Hardy, Coronado (Henderson, Nev.) 6-4
G — Zion Harmon, Adair County (Columbia, Ky.) 5-10
G — Meechie Johnson, Garfield Heights (Ohio) 5-11
F — Aminu Mohammed, Archbishop Carroll (Washington, D.C.) 6-5
F — Trey Patterson, Rutgers Prep (Somerset, N.J.) 6-7
G — Daeshon Ruffin, Callaway (Jackson, Miss.) 5-9
2018 National Freshman of the Year: Michael Foster Jr.
Last season there was a fantastic group of guards and this year there is yet more high-scoring ninth-graders. The most talented front-court players who had big impacts on their respective team, however, both played within a short drive of each other. Foster has been a well-known commodity in Milwaukee for many years and the region added Patrick Baldwin Jr. when his father took the UW-Milwaukee job. The choice came down to those two, and we go with Foster based on his statistical output and team success. After skipping eighth-grade to enroll at Washington, Foster averaged 19.1 ppg, 11.7 rpg and 2.5 bpg for a team that advanced to the WIAA D2 state title game. Baldwin, who is more of a traditional wing forward, was nearly as successful, averaging 16.0 ppg and 5.4 rpg for a team that advanced to the WIAA D1 semifinals. Foster, who has drawn some caparison to former Milwaukee Hamilton standout and 2014 third five All-American Kevon Looney and had already committed to Arizona St., is the first ever ninth-grade honoree from the state dating back to the 1976-1977 season.
National Coach of the Year: Josh Luedtke, Creighton Prep (Omaha, Neb.)
Related: 2017-18 All-American Elite Team | 2017-18 Mr. Basketball USA: R.J. Barrett
Note: ESPN selections 2010-2012; EA SPORTS selections 2003-2009; Student Sports selections prior to 2003; Selections are based on high school accomplishment, not future college/pro potential, and are reflective of those that lead their teams to state championships. The editors of www.ebooksnet.com do not knowingly select fifth-year players, and those ineligible due to age or academics, Mr. Basketball USA or to its various All-American teams.
Ronnie Flores is the national Grassroots editor of www.ebooksnet.com. He can be reached at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores
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