Alabama Players to Watch: Live Period
Since the Tip-Off Classic, the events have continued to grow and get better with some of the best independent teams on the circuit. I have come across some top-tier athletes that will be some key players to watch during the live period in July.
Some players have made a name for themselves on the Hoopseen circuit, and some are others who have made quite a buzz playing elsewhere.
Here are some Alabama standouts to watch during the last stretch of the Live-Period events.
- John Broom
6-foot-5 guard John Broom has really found his game this past season. Known as being a high-caliber shooter, Broom has emerged as a true combo guard that can provide more than just shooting. Playing with the Alabama Fusion this summer, Broom has showcased his solid facilitating skills and crafty ball handling. He’s improved more on creating space for his shot and taking those bumps to finish through contact. Broom has already added some high-major offers during the regular season but can expect more to come as the travel season wraps up.
- Kyle Layton
Newcomer Kyle Layton has really caught some eyes in the Alabama area after making a transfer over to Mountain Brook last season. Playing on the UA circuit, Layton has continued his extraordinary play with Pro-One. One of the best parts of Layton’s game is his explosiveness with his first step. His speed with the rock is great, he seems to flourish more in transition. Getting to the basket is Layton’s specialty, this 6-foot guard packs a lot of power slashing through defenders. His shot around the perimeter is solid, and with good handles, his isolation game is one of the best.
- RJ Johnson
6-foot-4 combo guard RJ Johnson has really thrived this summer, which says a lot because he’s been playing with Georgia Stars, one of the best teams on the EYBL circuit. During the regular season Johnson did the majority of his damage under the basket, but this summer he’s done an excellent job playing the point and coming off the wing. With his stocky size, he’s been able to capitalize on getting to the rim over smaller guards. Johnson’s passing game has progressed to another level, his court vision and perfect timing put his teammates in the right position to score. Johnson has a switch that he can turn on at a drop of a dime and it’s quite a show to watch.
- JJ Crawford
JJ Crawford has been the best stock riser to come out of the Alabama area. His play with Hawks Elite has gained him tons of media attention but I am quite familiar with this kid. Crawford is a smaller guard but his scoring is top-notch. He’s a shifty playmaker and can get to his spots easily. I think his control with the rock is solid; I admire the way he surveys the defense before attacking. Crawford’s best attribute is his shooting, he has great balance and does not seem too rattled by the closeout defender.
- Izzy Miles
Izzy Miles is a 6-foot-2 two-way guard from Huntsville, AL and his growth from the regular season to now is simply amazing. Miles is known for his intensity on defense and being an all-around cleanup guy but he’s starting to emerge as a leader playing with Team Carroll Premier. He’s still the same player that makes those aggressive and explosive attacks to the basket but now he’s just unstoppable with his swift handles. Miles is showing that his game can be quite versatile. He’s handling the ball a lot more in transition and becoming more comfortable with his shot around the perimeter.
