#ATLJAM: Garrett Tucker's notebook
A number of talented prospects took the floor Saturday and began their own stories to start the April recruiting period. With college coaches in attendance, here are the players that made a mark for themselves with their own story lines.
BOOKS AND BALL
One of the top point guards in action Saturday was 2016 Team Speights Elite (FL) lead guard DJ Bryant. The 6-foot floor general is an excellent passer with great vision. He racked up several assists in his team’s win against Team Heat (GA). He also plays with a great pace and understands the game.
Bryant has yet to get his recruitment going, but that is going to change soon. Not only does he have talent on the court, but he also boasts a 4.3 GPA. Ivy League schools and other high academic institutions will want to see him over the next few weeks.
Team Speights also has a big man by the name of Rashard Williams. The 6-foot-9 center was quick to mention his 24 on the ACT, as well as his 3.2 GPA. Keep an eye on both prospects to earn high academic offers soon.
LOVE HEADS DA HOUSE
It took a little while for 2018 stud Robert Woodard to get going for Da House (MS) against a talented Lexington Future (KY) team, but an unlikely hero rose to the occasion.
Cortez Love, a 2018 forward from Marshall Academy (MS), set the tone for his team in their comeback win. The 6-foot-2 forward plays with a great motor and did the dirty work to help his team. He is a warrior around the rim with his finishing ability and explosiveness. Love scored 13 points to help pace his team. Woodard led his team with 16.
Despite the loss, the Lexington Future had a good showing, too. Mercer County (KY) shooting guard Trevon Faulkner displayed an impressive scoring ability. He scored on all three levels, but he did the majority of his damage from the free throw line. There's still time for the 6-foot-4 guard to improve his game, but he has all the makings of a high-major shooting guard. Xavier, Texas A&M, Western Kentucky, and IUPUI have all expressed early interest in him.
OTHER STANDOUTS
Christian Keeling, 2016 SG, Team Power (GA): There are some questions as to what position Keeling will play at the next level, but he reminded everyone Saturday afternoon that if you can hit shots, you will play at the next level. The 6-foot-2 guard kept Team Power in the game against the River City Reign (NC) with four 3s in the first half. Keeling doesn’t have any offer gets, but Charleston Southern, Mercer, Wofford, and others are keeping tabs on him.
Jason Landman, 2016 PF, Team SAC: There aren't many big men with more skill in the South compared to Jason Landman. The 6-foot-7 stretch 4 man is a matchup problem for opposing defenses with his shooting and offensive game. He showed he can put the ball on the floor and challenge defenders, as well as hit a couple of 3s.
KJ Buffen, 2018 SF, North Georgia Elite: Buffen caught the eye of a couple of college coaches with his play Saturday night. The 6-foot-4 wing excels at attacking the basket and finishing at the rim. He is also a very efficient free throw shooter. The freshman has a lot of versatility that comes with his game, too. While it is still early in his career, he will be one to watch for the future.