Preps to Pros: NBA 2K26 Storyline from 1983 to future with help from NBA 2K14

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  • JAY_D1
    MVP
    • Sep 2004
    • 1790

    #1

    Preps to Pros: NBA 2K26 Storyline from 1983 to future with help from NBA 2K14


    High school basketball in America is in the midst of a revolution. For years, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia produced the bulk of the nation’s elite prep talent. But as the summer circuits expand and scouts spread their nets wider, new schools are establishing themselves as national pipelines for the stars of tomorrow.

    Screen Shot 2025-08-27 at 11.36.40 PM.png

    In 1983, the talk among college recruiters isn’t just about New York’s playground legends or Chicago’s Catholic league powerhouses. Instead, programs like Dutch Fork (South Carolina), Montverde Academy (Florida), Kenwood Academy (Chicago), Simeon (Chicago), DeMatha (Maryland), Oak Hill Academy (Virginia), Wasatch Academy (Utah), Columbus High School (Miami, FL), Morgan Park (Chicago), and even smaller programs like Crane Tech (Chicago) are beginning to define the national prep scene.

    Screen Shot 2025-08-27 at 11.39.36 PM.png

    Simeon (Chicago, IL)


    Simeon has established itself as the Chicago program to beat, thanks largely to Ben “Benji” Wilson (SF, 6’7”), the city’s most celebrated prep star. Wilson’s mix of size, vision, and control has scouts calling him the top player in the nation. Flanking him are David Karl (C, 7’0”), a shot-blocking giant still polishing his offensive game, and sophomore forward Bryan Cook (PF, 6’7”), who’s already catching eyes from ACC and Metro Conference recruiters. Morgan Park (Chicago, IL)


    The Mustangs are making noise with Wilson Collier (SF, 6’6”), a smooth-scoring wing whose polished midrange jumper makes him a problem for defenses. Collier is positioning himself as Chicago’s next great scorer.

    Crane Tech (Chicago, IL) Smaller schools in the city still find ways to produce toughness. Edward Lowry (C, 6’9”) may not have the flair of Wilson or Karl, but his rebounding and grit give him a real chance at carving out a high-major role. He’s the type of center coaches love: all effort, no ego. Montverde Academy (Montverde, FL)


    Montverde shook the prep scene when it landed Leonard Madison (SF, 6’6”), the high-flying transfer from Dutch Fork. But Madison isn’t the only name to watch. Malcolm Lyons (SF, 6’5”) has long dreamed of the NBA, but scouts remain divided. Lyons is a strong scorer and competitor, but some question his ability to separate against elite defenders. Still, schools like Duke are monitoring him closely, and he already holds offers from Portland State and Murray State. If Lyons can prove himself against Madison in practice and Montverde’s national schedule, his stock could rise quickly. Dutch Fork (Irmo, SC)
    Screen Shot 2025-08-27 at 11.35.53 PM.png

    Even without Madison, Dutch Fork has Jesse Grant (C, 6’10”), a back-to-the-basket big who controls the paint with length and soft touch. Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, VA)
    Screen Shot 2025-08-27 at 11.35.28 PM.png


    Oak Hill may boast the strongest frontcourt in the nation. Maurice Simpson (PF, 6’8”) sets the tone physically, while Mike Jameson (C, 7’1”) is already drawing attention from pro scouts. DeMatha (Hyattsville, MD)


    As always, DeMatha runs the cleanest system in the country, producing polished guards who know how to run a team. Their lead floor general has recruiters buzzing about his vision. Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, UT)


    A perimeter-oriented system is unusual in the early-’80s, but Wasatch has a 6’3” sniper whose deep range forces defenses to stretch the floor in ways most aren’t used to. Columbus High School (Miami, FL)


    Columbus is Miami’s rising power. Their lead guard has elite quickness, and recruiters expect them to be a Florida hotbed in the coming years.
    Screen Shot 2025-08-27 at 11.40.14 PM.png


    Bottom line:
    The Class of 1983 is stacked with surefire stars — Benji Wilson, David Karl, Leonard Madison, Mike Jameson — but also with intriguing stories like Malcolm Lyons, a gifted forward still fighting for respect. That mix of polish and potential, glamour and grit, is what makes this year’s recruiting scene one of the most compelling in memory.
  • JAY_D1
    MVP
    • Sep 2004
    • 1790

    #2
    ESPN Recruiting Top 25 – Class of 1983

    1. Ben “Benji” Wilson – SF – Simeon (Chicago, IL)


    The undisputed No. 1 player in the country. At 6’7” with guard skills, Wilson has recruiters salivating. Magic Johnson comparisons are inevitable, but his smooth midrange game and leadership set him apart. Everyone from DePaul to Georgetown is calling. 2. David Karl – C – Simeon (Chicago, IL)


    At 7’0”, Karl is one of the most imposing prep big men in America. Raw offensively, but his shot-blocking presence changes games. Georgetown, Illinois, and Louisville are all heavily invested.

    3. Mike Jameson – C – Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, VA)


    At 7’1”, Jameson is being watched by professional scouts already — something virtually unheard of in 1983. A rim protector with upside, the question is whether he’ll dominate night-to-night or just flash brilliance.

    4. Leonard Madison – SF – Montverde Academy (Montverde, FL)


    The high-flying transfer from Dutch Fork brings instant star power to Montverde. Explosive first step, highlight dunks, and a scorer’s confidence. Looks like a future ACC star.

    5. Wilson Collier – SF – Morgan Park (Chicago, IL)


    A natural scorer with a smooth midrange jumper, Collier thrives in isolation. Youngstown State is recruiting him as hard as any mid-major in the country, while Big Ten schools hover.

    6. Walter Anthony – C – Whitney Young (Chicago, IL)


    At 6’11”, Anthony is a rising star in Chicago. Big East programs — Syracuse, Georgetown, St. John’s — are circling, but Youngstown State has made him a top target, selling him on being their program’s cornerstone.

    7. Maurice Simpson – PF – Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, VA)


    Powerful forward with a college-ready frame. Simpson bullies defenders inside and has a reliable 15-foot jumper. The perfect complement to Jameson.

    8. Edward Lowry – C – Crane Tech (Chicago, IL)


    A classic grinder. At 6’9”, Lowry doesn’t have flash but does all the dirty work — rebounding, setting screens, protecting the rim. Coaches call him “a winner.”

    9. Adrian Sharpe – PG – Glenbard West (Glen Ellyn, IL)


    The best true point guard in the Midwest. At 6’1”, Sharpe has Indiana written all over him — heady, tough, and unafraid of big moments. He’s a coach’s dream floor general.

    10. Ernest Cameron – SG – Whitney Young (Chicago, IL)


    A dynamic scorer at 6’4”. Cameron is one of the city’s most competitive guards, equally comfortable slashing to the rim or pulling up from midrange. He thrives under pressure.

    11. Frankie Wright – PG – Crane Tech (Chicago, IL)


    Fast-rising floor general at 6’0”. Wright controls tempo, pressures the ball defensively, and is developing a pull-up jumper. Smaller schools are circling, but Big Ten recruiters are starting to sniff around.

    12. Malcolm Lyons – SF – Montverde Academy (Montverde, FL)


    Talented and ambitious, Lyons has NBA dreams, though scouts are cautious. Duke has shown interest, while Murray State and Portland State are in pursuit. His play against Madison in practice could define his trajectory.

    13. [Wasatch Guard] – SG – Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, UT)


    The nation’s premier shooter. At 6’3”, his range extends to 20 feet — unusual in this era of post-dominant basketball. Scouts say he “changes the geometry of the floor.”

    14. [DeMatha Guard] – PG – DeMatha (Hyattsville, MD)


    Another Morgan Wootten product — steady, poised, with elite passing vision. Not flashy, but he’s the kind of guard who wins championships at the college level.

    Comment

    • JAY_D1
      MVP
      • Sep 2004
      • 1790

      #3
      Spotlight: David Karl – Should He Jump Straight to the NBA?
      Screen Shot 2025-08-27 at 11.55.05 PM.png



      At 7’0” and still just 18 years old, David Karl (Simeon, Chicago, IL) is facing a question few high schoolers have ever seriously considered: skip college altogether and go straight to the NBA.

      The buzz is real. Scouts from half a dozen NBA teams have been spotted at Simeon games this winter, jotting notes every time Karl blocks a shot or turns a simple drop-step into a soft hook. One NBA executive, speaking anonymously, said:
      “The league is starving for bigs. If Karl entered the draft today, he’d be a first-rounder just on size and potential.”

      Karl’s season hasn’t been without challenges. He faced DeMatha HS, going toe-to-toe with Art Dawson, the lightning-fast sophomore point guard whose drives tested Karl’s lateral mobility. And at Dutch Fork, he struggled against Steven Suns (SF, 6’5”), a junior wing who excels at creating space and knocking down contested jumpers.
      Screen Shot 2025-08-27 at 11.52.21 PM.png


      On the recruiting front, Karl is drawing heavy interest. Duke and UNC have taken in-person looks at his game, observing his footwork and court awareness. Meanwhile, Oklahoma and Rutgers have already met with Karl and his family on official visits, aggressively courting him with the promise of immediate impact and exposure.

      Friends close to him say Karl is torn between staying home at Illinois or Louisville for a couple of years, potentially boosting his draft stock, versus rolling the dice on entering the NBA early. Whichever path he chooses, Karl’s decision will be one of the most closely watched in high school basketball this year.

      Comment

      • JAY_D1
        MVP
        • Sep 2004
        • 1790

        #4
        High school basketball in 1983 is no longer just about state championships and local bragging rights. Across the country, NBA scouts and even team owners are quietly taking seats in high school gyms, scribbling notes as 18-year-olds soar for rebounds or unleash deadly jumpers





        .

        It’s a trend that has raised eyebrows among parents, coaches, and prep players alike. Some call it early talent evaluation; others worry it’s putting pressure on teens too soon. But for NBA teams starved for big men and versatile wings, there’s no substitute for seeing the next generation up close.

        Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 12.10.52 AM.png

        At Simeon High School, 7’0” center David Karl has drawn a steady crowd of NBA representatives, including two scouts from Chicago’s Bulls and one anonymous executive who reportedly owns partial stakes in a team out West. “We’re looking for size, mobility, and a player who can handle the grind of the league,” the exec said. “There’s no better way than seeing them live against real competition.”



        Meanwhile, in Florida, Montverde Academy’s Leonard Madison has become the latest showpiece. Scouts from the East and Midwest have driven hundreds of miles to watch him fly down the court. One anonymous owner noted,
        “We’ve never seen anything like it. These kids are ready to play above their age — it’s amazing, but also a little scary.”
        Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 12.11.36 AM.png


        Even smaller programs aren’t immune. At Crane Tech, point guard Frankie Wright has impressed visiting NBA talent evaluators with his floor leadership and quickness. Scouts say they take mental notes on every pass, shot selection, and defensive rotation — every detail counts when predicting potential in a 48-minute NBA game.


        Comment

        • JAY_D1
          MVP
          • Sep 2004
          • 1790

          #5

          Rivalry Spotlight: Kenwood Academy vs. Whitney Young


          Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 12.24.16 AM.png

          Chicago basketball fans know that nothing gets the city buzzing like a Kenwood Academy vs. Whitney Young matchup. In 1983, the rivalry is reaching a fever pitch, fueled by a mix of homegrown stars, national prospects, and high-stakes bragging rights.

          At Kenwood, the spotlight shines on Dwight May (SG, McDonald’s All-American), whose scoring, court vision, and playmaking set the tone for the team. Adding depth to the Kenwood narrative is Vin George (SG, former Kenwood/IMG Academy, now a sophomore at UConn). George, who transferred to IMG Academy for national competition, is already turning heads at the collegiate level, and his Kenwood roots make him a symbolic figure in this rivalry. Even though he no longer suits up for Kenwood, scouts and fans alike still recall his matchups against Whitney Young as part of Chicago’s elite basketball tradition.
          Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 12.27.52 AM.png


          Across the gym at Whitney Young, the opposition is just as formidable. Walter Anthony (C, Big East prospect)anchors the paint, while Jeff Gentry (SF, committed to Ohio State) provides scoring and versatility on the wing. Ernest Cameron (PG) directs traffic, dazzling with his quickness and drawing international attention from the Australian NBL.

          Games between these two schools are more than just matchups — they’re battlegrounds for national recognition. Every possession is intense, every matchup is a test, and players like Dwight May and the legacy of Vin George provide a narrative thread that ties past talent to the current crop. The rivalry serves as a proving ground for transfers and rising stars alike, where Whitney Young’s guards and wings measure themselves against Kenwood’s sharpshooters and slashing guards.
          Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 12.29.42 AM.png


          In short, the Kenwood vs. Whitney Young rivalry isn’t just a city spectacle — it’s a national stage where past and present stars, like Vin George and Dwight May, showcase talent, and where college recruiters and scouts identify the next wave of elite players for the 1983-84 season.

          Comment

          • JAY_D1
            MVP
            • Sep 2004
            • 1790

            #6
            Duke Basketball 1983-84: What the Blue Devils Need
            Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.26.45 AM.png

            As the 1983-84 season approaches, Duke University finds itself in a transitional but promising phase. Head coach Mike Krzyzewski is steadily building the program into a national powerhouse, but there are clear areas of need that are shaping recruiting priorities for the Class of 1983.

            Frontcourt Help


            Duke is seeking size and versatility in the frontcourt. While the program has solid forwards and centers on the roster, the Blue Devils are looking for players who can stretch the floor, rebound efficiently, and protect the rim. Scouts and college coaches note that a 6’8”–7’0” forward or center with athleticism and skill could immediately contribute in the ACC, especially against programs like North Carolina, Maryland, and Virginia. Wing Scorers


            Duke also needs dynamic wings who can create their own shot, defend multiple positions, and provide leadership on the perimeter. Players like Malcolm Lyons (Montverde Academy) and Jeff Gentry (Whitney Young) are drawing Duke’s attention because of their versatility, scoring ability, and basketball IQ. These wings could complement Duke’s core guards while giving the team more offensive options. Backcourt Depth
            Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.26.57 AM.png


            While the Blue Devils have a solid starting backcourt, they are scouting for high-IQ point guards who can manage tempo and create for others. A player like Adrian Sharpe (Glenbard West) or Ernest Cameron (Whitney Young) fits this mold, though Duke is also evaluating prospects who can combine scoring and playmaking from the guard position. Recruiting Strategy


            Duke’s strategy in 1983-84 is to target high-character, versatile athletes who can step into the ACC immediately. The coaching staff is attending elite high school games across the nation — from Chicago and Florida to prep powerhouses like Oak Hill Academy — looking for players who can compete at the highest level and fit Krzyzewski’s fast-paced, disciplined system.
            “We’re not just looking for athletes,” a Duke recruiter said. “We want guys who understand the game, work hard, and can adapt to the ACC. The right recruit can make an immediate difference and help us compete nationally.”
            Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.26.30 AM.png


            In short, Duke’s 1983-84 recruiting focus centers on size in the frontcourt, scoring wings, and intelligent guards, all players capable of elevating the program toward its national ambitions while providing depth and versatility for Mike Krzyzewski’s evolving system.

            Comment

            • JAY_D1
              MVP
              • Sep 2004
              • 1790

              #7
              UCLA Basketball 1983-84: Searching for the Return to Glory


              The UCLA Bruins, once the most dominant program in college basketball, are trying to recapture the magic of the John Wooden dynasty years. With multiple national titles still fresh in memory, the program has faced the growing pains of coaching transitions and rising competition across the country. Now, heading into the 1983-84 season, UCLA’s recruiting and roster strategy centers on one theme: getting back to their winning ways. The Simeon Connection: Shaun Peters
              Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.39.40 AM.png

              UCLA’s roster centerpiece is Shaun Peters, a guard/forward out of Simeon High School in Chicago, a program known for producing gritty, high-level talent. Peters chose UCLA because he wanted to play for a national contender and believed the Bruins would give him a stage to shine.

              So far, UCLA hasn’t lived up to his expectations. While Peters has shown flashes of brilliance, the Bruins haven’t been able to push deep into March the way he envisioned. Still, entering his junior year, Peters is convinced the turning point is near.
              “I came to UCLA to compete for banners,” Peters told reporters. “It hasn’t happened yet, but I believe this is the year. I’ve put in the work, and I know what I can do for this team.”
              Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.39.55 AM.png

              Peters’ athleticism, scoring ability, and leadership will be pivotal as the Bruins look to climb back into the national conversation. Recruiting Priorities

              Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 12.32.25 AM.png


              UCLA’s recruiting style in 1983-84 is shifting toward:
              • Guard depth – Peters has been carrying too much of the offensive burden. UCLA wants to add athletic playmakers in the backcourt who can attack off the dribble and score efficiently.
              • Frontcourt size – Competing with the likes of Arizona and national powers means the Bruins must get tougher in the paint. Scouts say UCLA has been linked with bigs from the West Coast and Midwest, including players like Walter Anthony (Whitney Young, C) and Mike Jameson (Oak Hill, C).
              • West Coast dominance – UCLA still wants to keep its pipeline to California talent alive, but they’ve been unafraid to branch out nationally — as seen with Peters out of Chicago — to rebuild the roster.
              The Path Forward
              Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.39.25 AM.png



              For UCLA, the 1983-84 season hinges on whether Shaun Peters can elevate his game and teammates around him.With the right recruiting wins and development of their underclassmen, the Bruins could begin looking like contenders again. But Peters’ leadership is the X-factor.

              The program has history, tradition, and resources — now it needs results. UCLA’s staff knows they can’t afford to lag behind Duke, UNC, or even surging Big East powers if they want to return to their rightful place among the nation’s elite.

              Comment

              • JAY_D1
                MVP
                • Sep 2004
                • 1790

                #8

                For decades, the path to basketball glory was simple: dominate at your local high school, earn a scholarship to a blue blood program like UCLA, Duke, North Carolina, or Kentucky, and dream of cutting down nets in March. But in 1983-84, a new wrinkle is shaking up the landscape: elite prep schools.
                Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.46.16 AM.png


                Programs like Montverde Academy, Oak Hill Academy, IMG Academy, and now even a budding California powerhouse in Sierra Canyon, are becoming national destinations for top prospects. These schools offer high-level competition, national schedules, and visibility that traditional public schools often can’t match. Why Players Are Considering Prep Schools
                Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.45.29 AM.png


                The rise of prep programs has created a pipeline for athletes who want more exposure and stiffer competition. Instead of just playing against local rivals, stars at schools like Montverde or Oak Hill are squaring off against other national powers, often under the watchful eyes of college coaches and NBA scouts.

                Take Leonard Madison, the Dutch Fork standout who transferred to Montverde Academy this season. Madison was already a top prospect, but his move gives him the chance to sharpen his skills against elite competition on a weekly basis. Similarly, Chase Jefferson, originally of Kenwood Academy, transferred to IMG Academy before committing to Auburn, citing “better competition” as his motivation.
                “If you want to make it to the league, you need to test yourself every night,” one prep coach explained. “These schools give kids that platform.”

                Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.45.18 AM.png

                The Blue Blood Response


                Traditional powerhouses aren’t ignoring the trend. Duke, UNC, UCLA, and others are sending assistants across the country to scout these prep showcases. For them, prep schools have become one-stop recruiting grounds, where they can evaluate multiple elite prospects in a single night.
                Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.49.02 AM.png


                But some coaches still prefer players who stick with their neighborhood schools. UCLA’s Shaun Peters, a Simeon graduate from Chicago, chose to stay local during his prep days, believing his city pedigree toughened him for the college game. “You don’t need to go across the country to prove yourself,” Peters said. “Chicago made me.”

                Comment

                • JAY_D1
                  MVP
                  • Sep 2004
                  • 1790

                  #9

                  The 1984 NBA Draft is already being hyped as one of the most talented in league history. With names like Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Charles Barkley, and John Stockton headlining the college ranks, franchises are salivating at the thought of reshaping their futures. Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.57.03 AM.png




                  But behind the scenes, another conversation is brewing: what if NBA teams started drafting players straight out of high school? Why High School Now?


                  For decades, the NBA has leaned on the college game to prepare players for the pros. But in gyms across Chicago, Miami, and California, scouts are showing up earlier than ever. The reasoning is simple: the league is growing, the competition is fierce, and the demand for young, athletic big men and dynamic guards has never been higher. Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.57.44 AM.png



                  Take David Karl, the dominant center from Simeon High School (Chicago). At 6’10” with soft hands and pro-ready size, Karl is drawing legitimate NBA interest. Scouts whisper that his footwork and rebounding instincts are already comparable to some college juniors. One GM admitted privately:
                  “If the rules allowed it, a kid like Karl would hear his name on draft night. No question.”


                  Karl isn’t alone. Leonard Madison (Montverde, formerly Dutch Fork) has the athletic wingspan and scoring package that screams NBA potential. Overseas scouts in Spain and France have already taken notice of players like Ernest Cameron (Whitney Young) and Malcolm Lyons (Montverde), who might become pros earlier if the NCAA pipeline doesn’t pan out. College vs. Pros Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 9.58.16 AM.png



                  The NBA’s interest has unsettled some in the college ranks. Programs like Duke, UNC, and UCLA are already fighting to secure top recruits, but if players start jumping straight to the NBA, recruiting boards could be thrown into chaos.

                  For the NCAA, the fear is twofold:
                  1. Loss of star power – Imagine if a player like David Karl never suited up in March Madness.
                  2. Recruiting wars with pro teams – With European leagues in France, Spain, and Israel openly scouting U.S. prep talent, the NBA’s gaze at high school gyms feels like the next logical step.
                  The Owners’ Perspective Screen Shot 2025-08-28 at 10.02.16 AM.png



                  While some owners are cautious about drafting raw talent, others see it as the future. High school games in Chicago and New York have already hosted NBA executives sitting quietly in the stands, jotting notes on teenagers who could one day be lottery picks.

                  The Roadblocks


                  Despite the intrigue, the path isn’t clear:
                  • The NBA’s rules still expect players to pass through college first.
                  • Scouting limitations make it difficult to project how a 17-year-old will adjust to the NBA grind.
                  • Concerns about maturity and readiness remain a major sticking point.

                  Comment

                  • JAY_D1
                    MVP
                    • Sep 2004
                    • 1790

                    #10
                    The 1984 NBA Draft is quickly gaining the reputation of being a watershed moment in basketball history. With names like Hakeem Olajuwon, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, and John Stockton, the league is on the verge of a generational talent influx.






                    But beyond those established stars, scouts are uncovering new gems — both homegrown and international — that could shake up the draft order. From the playgrounds of Chicago’s West Side to gyms in France and Brazil, the 1984 draft board is as diverse as the league has ever seen.






                    Michael Jordan & the UNC Machine


                    At the center of it all is Michael Jordan, the electrifying shooting guard from North Carolina. Coming off his iconic 1982 NCAA Championship-winning shot as a freshman, Jordan has steadily matured into the best player in college basketball. His explosiveness, defensive instincts, and ability to take over games have made him a top-two lock in the draft.






                    Jordan isn’t the only Tar Heel turning heads, however.
                    • Terrence Fox, Jordan’s backcourt mate, has made a name for himself as a versatile scorer who can also run the point. NBA scouts — particularly the Philadelphia 76ers — see him as a ready-made contributor.
                    • Sam Perkins, the smooth-shooting big man, adds even more depth to UNC’s NBA pipeline. While overshadowed by Jordan’s superstardom, Perkins’ inside-out versatility makes him a likely lottery pick.

                    The Tar Heels’ ability to produce NBA-ready players in bunches has made Chapel Hill a mandatory stop for scouts this season.


                    Comment

                    • JAY_D1
                      MVP
                      • Sep 2004
                      • 1790

                      #11
                      In a packed gym with standing-room only, DeMatha Catholic (Hyattsville, MD) edged out Whitney Young (Chicago, IL) in one of the early highlights of the 1983-84 high school basketball season. The game featured a mix of established stars and rising prospects, with college scouts and even NBA evaluators sprinkled into the crowd.
                      Screen Shot 2025-08-29 at 6.05.16 PM.png





                      Sam Mills Stands Tall


                      For Whitney Young, the night belonged to Sam Mills, a 6’10” center whose sheer size and power caused problems for DeMatha all evening. Mills dominated the paint, finishing with 22 points, 15 rebounds, and 4 blocks.

                      Though Whitney Young fell short in the final minutes, Mills proved he belongs in the conversation with the nation’s top big men. Scouts noted his soft touch around the rim, improving footwork, and ability to protect the basket. Several Big Ten and Big East programs are already circling.
                      Screen Shot 2025-08-29 at 6.05.27 PM.png


                      Harry Warren Leads the Charge


                      On the DeMatha side, the unlikely hero was Harry Warren, an undersized but relentless 6’6” power forward. Despite giving up size to Mills and Whitney Young’s frontline, Warren attacked the boards and hustled his way to 18 points and 12 rebounds, including several critical second-chance buckets down the stretch.
                      “He might not have the frame of a prototypical power forward,” one ACC scout said, “but Harry Warren plays like he’s 7 feet tall in terms of effort.”


                      Warren’s performance kept DeMatha afloat during a late-game scoring drought, and his leadership gave them just enough of an edge to close it out.

                      Comment

                      • JAY_D1
                        MVP
                        • Sep 2004
                        • 1790

                        #12
                        Jessie Johnson (Whitney Young) → Ohio State


                        Whitney Young’s Jessie Johnson, a quick-handed 6’1” point guard, became the third Dolphin this season to announce his college plans. Johnson is known for his perimeter defense, high basketball IQ, and ability to run an offense without needing to dominate the scoring column.
                        “He’s a glue guy,” one scout said. “When Jessie’s on the floor, the team runs smoother. Every coach wants a guard like that.”



                        With Johnson choosing Ohio State, Whitney Young now sends three guards to three different major programs:
                        • Walter Anthony → Arizona
                        • Ernest Cameron → Iowa
                        • Jessie Johnson → Ohio State


                        Murray Williams (Eau Claire HS) → Ohio State


                        The Buckeyes’ recruiting celebration grew even louder when Murray Williams, the electrifying point guard from Eau Claire (South Carolina), also signed on.

                        Ohio State has been pursuing Williams relentlessly for over a year, and his commitment signals that the Buckeyes see him as the cornerstone of their future backcourt.
                        “They believed in me from day one,” Williams said. “I want to reward that trust.”


                        Williams brings speed, scoring touch, and swagger, and is already being whispered about as an early All-Big Ten candidate once he hits campus.

                        Three-Guard Class of the Future


                        Between Jessie Johnson and Murray Williams, Ohio State now has arguably the best guard recruiting class in the country. Add in Jeff Gentry (Whitney Young → SF), who committed earlier this fall, and the Buckeyes look primed to reassert themselves in the Big Ten arms race.

                        On one signing day, Ohio State landed three potential starters of the future — a backcourt duo that could dominate for years, and a versatile forward in Gentry.

                        Comment

                        • JAY_D1
                          MVP
                          • Sep 2004
                          • 1790

                          #13
                          Isaac Frazier (Morgan Park) → Rutgers



                          In one of the biggest surprises of the cycle, Isaac Frazier, a 6’6” small forward from Morgan Park (Chicago), announced he will play at Rutgers.

                          Frazier, known for his versatility and perimeter defense, had heavy interest from Big Ten powers and even a long look from Georgetown, but instead opted to head East.
                          “Rutgers made me feel like I’d be the guy there,” Frazier said. “I wanted to carve my own path.”




                          The Scarlet Knights, often overlooked in national recruiting battles, may have landed their most significant commitment of the decade.


                          Frankie Wright (Crane Tech) → Arizona State


                          Chicago’s Crane Tech continues its run of producing guards, as Frankie Wright, the 6’0” floor general, has committed to Arizona State.

                          Wright’s stock soared after dazzling performances against city rivals Simeon and Kenwood. Though initially linked to several Big Ten schools, Wright surprised everyone with his decision to go West.
                          “It’s the chance to prove myself in the Pac-10,” Wright explained. “Arizona State believed in my game.”


                          Wright’s blend of quickness, creativity, and toughness gives the Sun Devils a backcourt piece who can start early.

                          Steven Suns (Dutch Fork) → Portland State


                          Perhaps the biggest shock of all came from South Carolina, where Steven Suns, a 6’7” small forward at Dutch Fork, announced his verbal commitment to Portland State.

                          Ranked as a four-star recruit, Suns had interest from schools like Clemson, NC State, and Maryland, making his pledge to the Vikings a stunner.

                          Scouts describe Suns as a gritty two-way forward with an improving jumper, and while his decision raised eyebrows, it may also signal that smaller programs are now competing in creative ways to secure big talent.
                          “They gave me the chance to be the centerpiece,” Suns said. “That’s all I wanted.”

                          Last edited by JAY_D1; 08-29-2025, 06:24 PM.

                          Comment

                          • JAY_D1
                            MVP
                            • Sep 2004
                            • 1790

                            #14
                            1984 NBA Draft Outlook: The International Wave Grows Stronger


                            By ESPN NBA Insider – March 1984

                            The buildup to the 1984 NBA Draft continues to take new turns, with international prospects now firmly on the radar of front offices. While names like Michael Jordan, Akeem Olajuwon, and John Stockton dominate headlines, the overseas market is shaping the way scouts think about the league’s future.


                            Carlos Jiménez: Spain’s New Star


                            One of the biggest risers on the draft boards is Carlos Jiménez, a 6’5” shooting guard from Tenerife who recently starred in Spain’s victory over Brazil.

                            Jiménez displayed fearless shooting, strong perimeter defense, and an ability to slash inside, earning him immediate attention from NBA executives. Scouts from the Celtics, Spurs, and Rockets were in attendance for his breakout performance.
                            “He’s polished, tough, and doesn’t play like a teenager,” one Western Conference scout said. “If he’s available, he’ll get picked.”


                            The NBA’s recruitment of Jiménez is notable, as few Spanish players have received such attention in the past. His presence signals a growing willingness from teams to mine Europe for guard talent, not just big men.

                            Rob Love Stays, Kurt Sheridan Joins
                            • Rob Love (Syracuse/Crane Tech) shocked many by announcing he’ll return to school, delaying his NBA debut.
                            • Kurt Sheridan (Mega Basket, Europe) declared for the draft after a stellar season overseas, joining the international wave of talent.

                            Other Global Names
                            • Cristiano Conti (Brazil/France) – A shooting guard who has been on U.S. radars since his performance against France.
                            • Andre Lyles (Italy) – The Arizona native improved his stock with physical play in Europe.
                            • Austin Hudson (Citadel/Europe) – A late bloomer with strong pro seasoning overseas.

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                            • JAY_D1
                              MVP
                              • Sep 2004
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                              #15
                              Cole Hutchinson: From Kenwood to UNC Stardom


                              By ESPN College Basketball Insider

                              When people talk about the University of North Carolina’s stacked roster, the spotlight usually falls on Michael Jordan. But quietly, another Tar Heel has carved out a legacy of his own: Cole Hutchinson, a former McDonald’s All-American and one of the nation’s most versatile small forwards.
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                              Chicago Roots at Kenwood Academy


                              Hutchinson first rose to prominence at Kenwood Academy in Chicago, where his scoring, rebounding, and defensive tenacity made him a prep star. By his senior year, he was one of the most sought-after recruits in the country, earning a spot in the 1980 McDonald’s All-American Game.

                              That same summer, Hutchinson represented the United States in the US vs. World Hoop Summit, where he showed scouts his rare ability to guard multiple positions while still pouring in points on the wing.

                              NBA Outlook
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                              With Hutchinson set to graduate in 1985, NBA scouts already see him as a first-round lock if he declares. His all-around skill set, combined with his experience playing alongside elite talent like Jordan and Sam Perkins, makes him one of the most NBA-ready wings in the upcoming classes.

                              Some executives even see him as a safer long-term bet than flashier scorers.

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