Atlanta Jam 17U Story Starters, part I
One of the great things about the Atlanta Jam is watching players take full advantage of the stage during the NCAA Live Period. Our staff breaks down some of the players who wrote a big chapter of their story over the weekend.
Nate Bloedorn, EAB, 2019, PF: The big man from EAB came into the Atlanta Jam with a nice array of interest from colleges but no offers. After his play here at the NCAA Live Period event, he should see that interest grow into offers. The 6-foot-7 big man knows what his strength is - brute strength in the low blocks. He’s a good rebounder that doesn’t shy away from contact. A good number of Southern low-majors watched him quite a bit. — Justin Young
Dakevias Brady, TNBA South, 2018, Forward: Anyone that knows me well can testify to the fact that I'm a sucker for a big with upside. This 6-foot-8 forward has craftable tools that could make him a formidable player for a lot of teams willing to invest the time and effort. Several great qualities were on display as Brady scored on the block, took defenders off the bounce while playing with passions and efforts. Someone is going to get a possible late game changer with this one. - Tai Young
Jacarlin Dennis, Griffin Grasshoppers, 2019, G: Multiple 30-point games will raise the eyebrow of anyone paying attention and our HoopSeen staff was no different. The Griffin guard was a 5'10 scoring machine that had a knack for shooting over much bigger defenders. Dennis had the poise and feel of a grown man and left his mark on every court he touched at the Atlanta Jam. To sum it up, 136 points scored in five games does more justice than anything I could write about him. - Tai Young
Max Fielder, Team M.O.A.M, 2019, PF: Once Fielder got to the front of the rim and got low it was like trying to move a tree that had roots deep in the earth. His productivity was constant as he barreled into defenders left and right. Fielder brought some throwback bully ball to the Atlanta Jam while mixing in some new school flair. His understanding of positioning and angles was solid for a big man and that along with other traits should continue to develop. Division I schools looking for a big in next years class should take a flyer as Fielder still has room to grow. - Tai Young
Jacob Harris, Hawks Elite, 2019, PF: The 6-foot-7 forward from North Paulding (GA) High School was an eye-catcher this weekend. He’s a skilled big that can guard the wing and knock down the perimeter shot out to three. Harris is a stud in the classroom and ever-growing as a player. Harris was my biggest riser from the state of Georgia from the weekend. - Justin Young