Potential stock risers at Holiday Hoopsgiving
Holiday Hoopsgiving has become the premier destination for fans, media and college coaches around turkey season. During last year's event, Chance Moore and Eugene Brown saw a spike in their recruitment as they stole the spotlight for the weekend. Here are a few players that could benefit from one of the countries best high school events.
Since our Fall Preview camp, our staff has gushed over the two-way abilities of Tucker wing Terrence Edwards Jr. While Bluff City had their challenges on the EYBL, Edwards maintained averages of 15ppg, with a spectacular 53% from the field. Those numbers speak for themselves in regards to the efficiency in which Edwards makes use of his possessions. With his size, length, and willingness to compete on the defensive end, the stage is set for high majors to take notice of the state's top sleeper.
Is there anyone in the state whos talent does not reflect their recruitment? Looking down the long list of talented prospects that will play over the weekend, Eric Gaines was on the shortlist of players whose name doesn't appear to have crossed state lines. With an influx of coaches making their way to the state, Gaines's captivating play is built to do just that. Gaines has been relatively quiet about his recruitment, citing his focus on finishing his season with a state championship is most important. With a game as explosive as his, it seems time for more mid-major to come knocking.
Pay attention to this one. Make sure that you watch him with a focus on what he can be, as opposed to what you're seeing at the time. On first glimpse, his length will jump out at you as it's hard to ignore his 6'9 frame that's all arms and legs. His mobility is impressive as well as he's able to get end to end without trailing behind the action. Fast forward to two Thanksgivings from now and that lean frame could be completely rebuilt in the weight room. The added strength, mobility, and excellent timing as a shot-blocker could make him a formidable backline defender. As coaches scramble to find size in this class, Diallo has a long term outlook that should spark the imagination of a program that can afford to be patient.
I don't think there is anyone that had a better week than Ryan Mutombo. An offer from Richmond, followed by a 43 point explosion was quite the way to start off the Holiday season. The name Mutombo is synonymous with shot-blocking, but it's his improvements offensively that could take his recruitment to another level. Soft-touch around the rim and some extension on his range has continued to add value as he develops into a more well-rounded prospect. Having offers from Indiana State, Georgia Tech, and Georgetown, doesn't exactly qualify him as a sleeper, but it could be argued that he's currently undervalued.
Lovett 2021 forward Ryan Mutombo(@RyanMutombo) went in depth about his off season development, expectations for his junior year, and a what schools are currently involved. Here’s part 1 of our conversation. pic.twitter.com/asmF3WIMNh
— Tai Young (@TaiYoungHoops) November 18, 2019
