GHSA Zoom In: Maynard Jackson Jaguars
Kell and Eagle’s Landing were the two most dominant teams in Georgia’s 5A classification a season ago. Before that, Eagle’s Landing and Tri-Cities were playing for state championships for consecutive seasons.
The aforementioned will be good enough to make it to Macon for a chance to cut the nets again, but there are more teams to consider this season that could be threats to some of the established 5A powers.
One of the teams to look out for is Maynard Jackson.
So far, the Jaguars sit at an undefeated 4-0 early in the season while missing one of the most key components to their team.
Names to know
Bowyer looks like one of the most frustrating defenders to go up against in the state. He sticks with opposing ball handlers like glue and provides a feisty on-ball presence. Bowyer is a consistent source of offense as well. He can get going with his jumper and change the complexion of a game. He’s one of a pair of guards that can lead the offense for this squad.
The other half of the Jaguars’ backcourt, Watkins is as pesky on the defensive end as Bowyer. He can be a suffocating presence on that side of the ball while also pressuring teams on the other end of the floor as well. Watkins is at his best when attacking the rim. He’s difficult to keep in front, and he’s a high-level finisher when he gets to where he wants to go.
The Bowyer-Watkins combo feels like one built for a single-elimination tournament. They make up one of the best backcourts in the state.
The 6-foot-8 Kennesaw State commit is currently out with an injury, but his return will be a game-changer for the Jaguars. Turner gives them a force around the basket that not many have at this level. He can protect the paint on defense and serve as a target for his guards to get the ball to on offense. Turner has shown improving perimeter skill as well, so he can add that wrinkle as well. His return will boost what this Maynard Jackson team can be, and they’ve already proven to be solid.
With Turner out, Dover has been Maynard Jackson’s size to start the season. He’s been filling the role nicely, and he could be more productive when playing alongside Turner. Dover is effective in the mid-range and provides underrated toughness in all aspects of the game. He’s had an impressive start to the season.
Season Outlook
4-0 while missing one of the team’s best, most important players is as good as it gets for the Jaguars.
Traditionally tough region opponents like Tri-Cities, Chapel Hill and Mays await, but as long as Turner comes back at some point in the new year, Maynard Jackson should be in a good position to make a run in 5A.
