2022 6-4 G Gaddis Heath – D-Favors Celtics – Westlake
The reigning Region 4-6A Player of the Year continues to build momentum in what looks like could be a fruitful offseason. Known for his impressive athleticism and ability to do a little bit of everything, Gaddis Heath is more than just a highlight reel. He has a polished well-rounded game that keeps getting better. He shined on Friday night with his outside shot. Heath could go full-tilt down the length of the floor and stop on a dime to connect from the mid-range. He hit sidestep jumpers and pull-ups as he caught defenders off balance. Heath understands how to get to his spots and is true three-level scorer. He finished with 16 points, 1 rebound, 4 assists and 1 block in a 58-48 win over the Atlanta Timberwolves.
2022 5-9 PG Khamani Olivacce – PSB Atlanta – North Atlanta
Khamani Olivacce made a positive first impression with his energy and overall aggressive style of play. He got up in opposing ball handlers and made them uncomfortable with his active hands and quick feet. His on-ball defense sparked his offense as he scored in a variety of ways. Olivacce hit a three, scored on drives, got on the offensive glass for a putback and delivered a long step-back jumper in the second half. Even with his timely scoring, Khamani was able to distribute as well. He finished with 12 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals.
2022 5-10 PG Dajaun Devonish – OTP – Etowah
Etowah has all the pieces in place to make a strong run in Class 7A as a large 2022 and important 2023 class return. Dajaun Devonish provides a wild card factor. When he plays well, Etowah can ascend to another level. Devonish is a dynamic athlete, quick and shifty with a high motor to boot. He streaks across the floor as a pesky on-ball defender who typically rebounds very well for his size when closing out possessions. Devonish is comfortable playing at a fast pace but still can fit in in half court settings. Friday night it was his jumper that really impressed. He created offense off the dribble, getting separation and rising up to knockdown shots. Dajaun’s pull-up game was on point as he tallied 17 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 steals in a win over SBT, sinking three mid-range jumpers and a pair of threes.
2022 6-5 F Jeremiah Flournoy – D-Favors Celtics – Salem
Jeremiah Flournoy is a steady forward that should receive some college looks. He doesn’t need to do anything flashy to be effective. Flournoy can get tough and battle inside for rebounds but he’s also capable of scoring when his number is called. Flournoy is a physical presence that has a nice low post game. He can score with his back to the basket using hook shots and strong drop steps. Jeremiah can finish above the rim and power through contact. The double-double threat posted 13 points, 8 rebounds and 1 steal.
2022 6-5 SG Brayden Baker – Atlanta Timberwolves – Richmond Hill
Brayden Baker’s game is evolving. While he is still a very good three-point shooter, Baker is becoming more than just a perimeter threat. I’ve always thought he was an above average slasher with some sneaky good athleticism. He was able to get to the basket multiple times against D-Favors and converted against length. Baker is a three-level scorer that can shoot the ball with accuracy from the mid-range. He even went down on the low block and scored on a turnaround jumper out of the post. What caught my eye the most on Friday was Baker’s playmaking and defense. Brayden is a nifty passer when attacking the basket. He drops off short pocket passes to set up teammates in crowded areas using a tight low bounce. When the ball is in Baker’s hands, he can see the floor as well as a true point guard. Defensively, Baker has good size but he also can move his feet and make things difficult for ball handlers. When opponents try to drive and score at the rim, Baker does a great job of using his length to contest shots. He finished with 14 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 2 blocks.
2022 5-11 G Terrence Moore Jr. – GA Vision – Heritage-Conyers
Terrence Moore Jr.’s role will increase tenfold this upcoming season as James White (Ole Miss) and RJ Noord (Elon) are off to college. Moore showcased his scoring prowess as he netted 24 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist and 2 steals in a 62-50 win over JSI Elite Black. Moore came out of the gates firing, drilling four first half threes. Once his shot was calibrated, he started to attack the rim as the defense had to stretch out to guard him. Moore scored on some nifty finishes, using floaters and contorting his body to connect from tough angles using either hand. More than just a scorer, Moore showed flashes of his playmaking as he dropped off some nice passes once he beat his first man off the dribble.