2024 Florida Jam: 17U Top Performers, Part II
After an action-packed weekend in Wesley Chapel, Florida, the inaugural Florida Jam is officially behind us. There were plenty of talented players that ended their travel season on a high note.
With that being said, here’s our second round of top performers from the 17-and-under division…
RELATED: 17U Top Performers, Part I
Javion Dailey, Panhandle Prospects: Dailey wasted no time announcing his presence for the Panhandle Prospects, as he opened Friday night’s action with 26 points in a comeback win. The bouncy, 6-foot-3 guard made an impact on both ends of the floor and provided energy and excitement throughout the weekend. He used his length and quickness to jump passing lanes and create easy opportunities in transition while also showcasing his ability to play above the rim. A native of Daphne (AL), Dailey is a nice south Alabama sleeper to add to my list.
Christopher Murray, BTI Elite Gold: Murray piloted a successful weekend for BTI Elite Gold, as the home-state team came away with a 3-1 record at Florida Jam. The highlight of Murray’s weekend came on Saturday when he scored 32 points – and he made a last-second three-pointer to give his team the win. That performance set the tone for the rest of the event for Murray. While he showcased his all-around shooting and scoring ability, I was most impressed by his intensity and toughness. Murray played with a chip on his shoulder all weekend and played like he had something to prove.
Cam’Ron Williams, Auburn Raptors: The Auburn Raptors pulled off an undefeated weekend behind a well-balanced team effort all around. You could take your pick as a top performer from this team, but I went with Williams because he kept his foot on the gas and made things difficult for opposing teams. The energetic lead guard is a blur with the ball in his hands, so good luck staying in front of him. He was able to get in the lane whenever he wanted and drop passes off to teammates around the rim. Williams was also persistent on defense, giving primary ball-handlers problems throughout the event.
Sterling Moody, Hoop Grind: There’s always those guys that have an unconventional game yet they find a way to get the job done. That fits Moody perfectly because he was one of the most productive players I saw at Florida Jam. The 6-foot-6 big man plays with a hardhat approach, embracing the physicality of the game. Moody’s activity around the rim benefitted him and his team on both ends of the floor. Whether he was getting easy finishes at the basket or contesting other teams’ shots, the rising senior was a pain for all the competition. The slender forward brings a lot of intrigue and potential to go along with his hard-nosed game. It will be interesting to see where he goes from here.
Jason Welborn, Champion’s Chance: It was another quality weekend at the office for Welborn, who impressed as a top overall performer last weekend at Best of the South. Playing up an age group, the rising junior was a tough assignment for opposing defenses. He used his savvy play and slashing ability to get to his spots with ease, usually leading to finishes around the rim. There, Welborn was able to finish through contact and traffic more often than not. I think it’s been a successful two weekends to close out the travel season for Welborn. We’ll be keeping an eye on him as the fall approaches.
