2019 Alabama Fall Preview: Top Performers, Part I
The 2019 Alabama Fall Preview is officially in the books. After a great day of camp with some impressive performances, we polled our staff and coaches on their top performers from the event. Over a dozen people's input was considered. Here is our first of two top performer lists from Sunday at the Supreme Courts in Guntersville.
Jonathan Murray, 2022 PF, Huffman: Murray has been on the upward climb the past few months, as he has really improved since the beginning of the spring. A strong and stout 6-foot-7 big man, the sophomore is extremely intriguing with his combination of size, strength, and mobility. With a good set of hands and nimble feet, Murray is extremely versatile and can do a variety of things on the floor. That was on full display on Sunday as he was able to finish around the rim with quality footwork and knock down some shots from 15 feet and out. Murray made notable contributions on both ends of the floor and is a guy that should be on mid-major programs' radar going forward.
Joshua Williams, 2021 CG, Sidney Lanier: It's evident that Williams has been working hard over the past year. The junior has added new things to his game, but the most noticeable improvements are his strong body and attacking mind-set. He has added some strength and power to his game and it made a huge difference at the Fall Preview. Williams excelled at attacking the basket and scoring at the rim. The 6-foot-2 combo guard has always had a nice feel for the game and passing ability, but with his work in the weight room, Williams is now an even more dangerous backcourt player.
Calen Lightford, 2022 PG, Sparkman: Lightford may not be the biggest player around but boy does he pack a punch with his game. Despite only being a sophomore, he was one of the best floor generals in attendance. With a high IQ and the ability to make shots at an efficient rate, Lightford lit up opposing defenses with his scoring and passing. He produces in a sneaky and crafty manner that can surprise opposing defenders. It's safe to say that Lightford made his case as one of the top guard prospects in Alabama's deep 2022 class.
Cameron Crawford, 2021 WF, Spain Park: I'll say it again and again -- buy stock in Cam Crawford now. The 6-foot-4 wing man oozes with potential and upside and he coupled that with quality production at camp. He kept defenders on their toes with his shooting and slashing abilities throughout the day. With his long and lanky frame, Crawford can get by defenders with ease. He has the ability to glide through the air and finish at the rim, while also knocking down shots from behind the three-point line. I think Crawford is one of the biggest sleepers in Alabama's 2021 class. He holds an early scholarship offer from North Alabama.
Zane Nelson, 2020 CG, Oak Mountain: There has been one thing synonymous with Nelson during his high school career: consistently consistent. It doesn't matter what stage he is on, the Oak Mountain High School product has proven that coaches know what to expect from him each time out. The 6-foot-2 guard is unselfish and makes the correct play each time down the floor. He was one of the most effective drivers on Sunday, as he was able to get downhill and act as a playmaker. Nelson has flown under the radar to this point, but he caught the eye of several college coaches in attendance while at camp.
