2018 #Gibbons Top Performers 17U: Part III
Our coverage of the top performers from the 2018 Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions continues with the next installment of stars from the 17 and under division.
TJ Bickerstaff, Team Charlotte 2019 F: A player that had some memorable moments was Team Charlotte forward TJ Bickerstaff. There were times that Bickerstaff would rattle off a string of possessions that gave a glimpse into what could be a special player going forward. A lot of the boxes that coaches want are checked off. He's well versed in shooting, passing and rebounding with his 6'7 frame being the cherry on top. Georgetown, Bucknell, and Charlotte are just some of the schools that have offered this modern day forward. - Tai Young
Jamir Chaplin, Steakhouse Elite, 2019 SG: When the ball wasn't in Jalen Benjamin hands, Jamir Chaplin was next up to carry the load. Those that have seen this bouncy forward can speak to the fact that he's a valuable piece on both sides of the floor. Guarding several spots on the floor and getting to the rim are some of the many aspects of his game that have made him so sought after. - Tai Young
Julius Dixon, EAB, 2019 F: With a 15-0 record and three championships under his belt with EAB, Dixon is one of the most accomplished players in the South during the spring travel season. He’s good for 10 to 15 points a game and a made three-point a game. Dixon stretches the floor so well and creates so many mismatch situations. To me, he’s the best sleeper prospect that I’ve seen this spring. I’d anticipate his recruitment to explode come July. - Justin Young
RELATED: Gibbons 2018 Super Six | 17U Part I | 17U Part II
Dontay King, Team EAT, 2019 PF: The muscular big man showed up to the Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions and didn’t waste any time at all making his presence felt. He had a loud 28-point outing on Saturday and scored from all points on the floor. Naturally stronger than 99% of the field, the 6-foot-7 forward bullied his way to interior scores but also stepped out and knocked down three-pointers. He’s a versatile athlete with good hands and nimble feet. He’s also dipping his toes into the football pool this year. King is one of those types of athletes who will shine in whatever sport he locks himself into. - Justin Young
Malachi Rhodes, Game Elite, 2019 PF: Being consistent. That’s a skill these days. Rhodes was consistently good for Game Elite at the TOC. Perhaps the best thing Rhodes does is staying within his own skill set. He doesn’t try to push himself into areas where he’s not as skilled. His bread and butter is in the paint and around the cup. Rhodes runs the floor, sets up shot on the block and his guards reward him for his work and effort. - Justin Young
AJ Watts, Georgia South, 2019 PG: Watching Watts on the court is like getting your proper dosage of coffee in the morning. Every step on the court was as if he was powered by caffeine as he flew around from point a to point b as well as anyone. A menace in the press, Watts found his lane as a guard that can not only guard but frustrate ball handlers up the court. His production on the offensive end came in spurts but it's his energy and effort that stands out. - Tai Young