Here is Part 1 in a series of reports profiling the Top Performers. These players were selected to
the All-Shootout "1st Team".
Additional evaluations will be posted in the coming days.
First Team
PG - AJ Patterson
G - Damjan Simun
Wing - Justin McCarter
Wing - Kham Little
Forward - Darius Reynolds
Blossoming high ceiling prospect whose stock continues to rise. McCarter had an excellent showing during the July Live Periods and his game continues to climb this Fall. The combination of length, athleticism, and versatility brought strong reviews from many of the College Coaches in attendance on Saturday. He presents a very tough matchup for opposing defenses. He is a constant threat to score with his slashing ability, but is also a knock-down shooter from three-point range, especially off the dribble. He runs the floor extremely well in transition and finishes above the rim. His playmaking skills were on display Saturday, where he drew double teams and did a good job setting up teammates with his passing ability. Defensively, he is adept at guarding multiple positions and rebounds well for a guard. Carries a 4.0 GPA in classroom. Certainly won't be a surprise to see D1 programs get involved with Justin in the coming months; but regardless of where he lands, He is a player with great upside and a very bright future.
Floor general with good size and frame who impressed with his ability to smoothly run the show from the point guard position. Sees the floor well and makes good decision with the ball. Sets up teammates, puts them in good scoring position, and delivers with well timed passes. Several coaches commented positively on his communication skills. Physical and aggressive defender who rebounds the ball really well from the guard spot. Showed ability to finish at the rim on drives and has a capable outside jumper. Will be a major piece for a talented State title contending Mt. Vernon squad. AJ recently picked up offer from Georgia College in Peach Belt Conference. Expect his recruitment to continue to pick up heat in the weeks to come.
Breakout player from Tennessee who had an excellent showing throughout the day. The native of Montenegro is a big guard with strong 6' 4 college ready frame. Exhibited a very well rounded game and inside-out scoring prowess. Repeatedly got in the paint on drives and has the strength to power thru contact and score. Showed off his bounce with a couple of impressive dunks off drives. Has good accuracy on his three point shot and showed good court vision with several nice assists. Good defensive instincts, reading passing lanes on multiple occasions which led to easy buckets on other end. What might have been most impressive was Damjan's high basketball IQ. Plays with aggression but understands the game, is controlled and doesn't force the issue. Carries a 4.0 GPA in classroom. College Coaches will be well served to do their due diligence on this young man. He is a ball player.
Another talented prospect whose recruiting stock is rising rapidly this Fall. The super bouncy 6' 4 Wing Guard from Middle Georgia plays well above the rim and is a highlight reel waiting to happen. Kham thrives in transition and finished multiple tough finishes in traffic. He made a strong impact on the defensive end and created turnovers with his quickness and anticipation. His strong showings on the camp circuit this past month has resulted in four scholarship offers. We would expect that interest to certainly grow after his impressive performance on Saturday.
Strong forward who simply dominated the paint on both ends of the floor. The physically imposing product out of Dekalb County might have been the most productive player in camp. On the offensive end, he exhibited a deadly combination of force and agility to rack up points in the paint. Showed a solid mid-range shot when opponent gave ground. He was an absolute beast on the offensive boards, creating second chance opportunities for his team on numerous occasions. Defensively, he plays bigger than 6' 5 and protected the rim with authority, blocking 4 shots in the course of six minutes. Plays with energy and presence. Had multiple College Coaches highlighting his name. Junior College Coaches will surely want to take a close look.