#Mokan Elite

[sidelineshooter]

I assembled a super talented team to help me create “One Peachy Moment” documenting the pinnacle of grassroots basketball: Peach Jam. Thank you to Sean, Aldin, Eric, Shawn, Royce, Alex, Uri, Jay, Emir, and Miles for helping bring my vision to fruition.

[ibestofthewestblog]

The Mater Dei jersey. The tough, rugged demeanor. The goggles. Wilhelm Breidenbach has been under the spotlight his entire time at Mater Dei High School, but has handled the pressure well and has impressed some folks along the way. Namely Division 1 colleges, which he has plenty of interest in, as they have taken notice of the high intensity he plays with. Along the way, he has gained the respect of his peers because of his passionate play. Wilhelm is a bruiser inside, with his willingness to rebound and defend the basket. He will battle inside the paint no matter the amount of defenders around and will try to punch it on anybody standing between him and the basket. Breidenbach played on the Nike EYBL alongside teammate Devin Askew for Team Why Not, where they advanced to the final, falling to Mokan Elite. He is no stranger to high level competition, as Mater Dei plays a national schedule every season to test their abilities and go after the CIF Open Division Title every year. The last time Wilhelm was here at the Les Schwab was two years ago, where he was a talented freshman getting in minutes with the Monarchs. As two years have passed, he has become a national commodity, as opponents know his abilities and teammates ride on his energy on the basketball court. I was able to ask him some questions at the Les Schwab, where he provided significant insight regarding his game and the program at Mater Dei.

Albert: How was your game developed since the last time you were here two years ago?

Breidenbach: I think it’s developed a lot as far as better ball handling. I’ve developed a lot more consistent of an outside shot. As well as being more aggressive, all in all more active.

Albert: What goes into your mind before every game?

Breidenbach: I have a big, long process before games. I do meditation to kind of clear my mind and to really just get prepared for the game. Just imagine the game going on. It’s an extensive preparation just so we can perform to the best of our abilities.

Albert: Tell me about your recent visit to Nebraska?

Breidenbach: The Nebraska visit was great, it was a great experience, I still stay in touch with all the coaches out there. It was a great visit, as far as the campus and everything. I really enjoyed it, it’ll definitely be something to consider.

Albert: I believe USC is in the mix, is there any allure playing for the hometown team?

Breidenbach: Of course, they’re always an option. With them being close, that’s definitely something to consider as well.

Albert: How do you see yourself contributing at the next level?

Breidenbach: I think as far as contributing, I can just find my niche, do whatever they need me to do. Whether it’s rebounding, defending, a lit bit of scoring. I can adapt to anything. Consistent motor, playing hard every possession the court. Things I can improve on, better ball handling, definitely better shooting.

Albert: What’s it like playing for teams like the Compton Magic and Team Why Not, in addition to Mater Dei?

Breidenbach: It’s definitely great for me, it’s definitely a great experience getting to play the best of the best competition. Even with Mater Dei practices, everyone’s going at each other. It just makes me better everytime I step out on the court.

Albert: Where does all the intensity come from?

Breidenbach: It’s just, that’s just me - I’m just a competitive person. To me there’s a lot of things that you can’t control. But one of the things you can control, how hard you play and how consistent your motor is. That’s just an intangible that you can control.

Albert: Goals for the rest of the season?

Breidenbach: Obviously, as a team, we want to win CIF. We want to go as far as we can. Winning a lot of games and just improving game after game, which I think we have been doing.

Albert: What does it mean to be a Monarch and put on that jersey every night?

Breidenbach: It definitely means a lot. As our coaches say, when you put on that uniform, you’re not playing for yourself anymore. You’re playing for a legacy, you’re playing for each other, kind of everyone around the program. Current and former players, coaches, parents, kind of everybody.

[ontapsportsapp]

Jontay Porter, No. 26 player in 2018, commits to Missouri - ESPN

ESPN

Jontay Porter, No. 26 player in 2018, commits to Missouri ESPN The skilled 6-foot-10 forward has had one of the most impressive spring sessions in the country, averaging 18.1 points and 12.7 rebounds per game for MoKan Elite on the Nike EYBL circuit. Porter is currently a member of the 2018 class but is ... 4-Star PF Jontay Porter Commits to Missouri After Decommitting from WashingtonBleacher Report Jontay Porter's commitment continues transformative offseason for MizzouKansas City Star Jontay Porter commits to MizzouThe Maneater KGMI -AppsforPCdaily all 35 news articles »

Read more at http://ift.tt/2qKsouQ Support us through http://ift.tt/S7ofg3

[junker-town]

Michael Porter Jr. was worth the wait

This is the Michael Porter Jr. the Denver Nuggets were waiting for.

This is the Michael Porter Jr. we’ve been waiting for.

There was a time when it felt like the basketball world was meant to orbit around Michael Porter Jr. As a high school player, Porter’s talent was so apparent it caused entire college basketball programs to bend to his whims. Washington once hired his father away from Missouri to secure his commitment on the recruiting trail. After the Huskies’ coaching staff was replaced following a disappointing year with No. 1 overall NBA Draft pick Markelle Fultz, Mizzou re-hired Porter Sr., who brought his son with him.

At the time, Porter Jr. felt like a generational prospect. A 6’10 forward with a sweet shooting stroke and the type of boundless athleticism that landed him his first SportsCenter appearance as a high school sophomore, Porter had the pedigree to match his raw talent. He dominated Nike’s EYBL circuit posting huge and efficient scoring numbers while playing alongside Trae Young on Mokan Elite. He was a staple of USA Basketball’s youth program and helped bring back a gold medal at the 2016 FIBA Americas U18 Championship. There were Kevin Durant comparisons and early hype he could be the No. 1 overall NBA Draft pick (we originally had him at No. 2 behind only Luka Doncic).

Everything fell apart in the first two minutes of Porter’s time at Mizzou. He exited the season opener with a back injury that eventually led to microdiscectomy surgery of his L3-L4 spinal discs. Porter fought his way back on the court to play in the Tigers’ NCAA tournament game, but it was clear he wasn’t the same player. Concerns over the injury didn’t just cost him his entire college career, it also pushed him down the board to No. 14 in the draft.

The Denver Nuggets were in prime position to take a chance on him. After essentially giving Porter a redshirt season following a second back surgery after the draft, Denver is finally starting to see the player it once appeared he was destined to become.

Porter scored a career-high 25 points on 11-of-12 shooting in the Nuggets’ 124-116 road win over the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night. Healthy for the first time in years, the vision of what Porter was always supposed to be has started to come into focus.

The Nuggets had nothing to lose by taking a draft-day flier on Porter with the last pick in the lottery. He was lucky to land with a winning organization that took a patient approach prioritizing his health. After scoring 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting against the Sacramento Kings last week in his first career start, it appears Porter is all the way back to the player he was hyped to be as a recruit.

This is one of the feel-good stories of the year in the NBA. It’s also a tremendous boost for the Nuggets in both the short- and long-term that should have the rest of the Western Conference terrified at where this relationship could go from here.

Porter is a natural-born scorer

Porter’s game has always been about getting buckets. He grew up modeling his game after Durant and was one of the few young players who actually had the skill set to do it. At 6’10, Porter was raised on the perimeter, honing his jump shot first and his ball handling second during a time when he could have dominated on size alone. The work he put in at a young age was always with an eye on how his game would translate to the highest levels. Now it’s happening.

Just look at how much separation Porter caused on this step-back. He turned a mid-range jumper into a corner three with exactly one step.

That MPJ step-back pic.twitter.com/Qa2n27EDnH

— Dime (@DimeUPROXX) January 3, 2020

Porter’s shooting stroke has always been a focal point in his skill set, but he doesn’t solely rely on it. Rather, his shot is used to keep defenses honest against his ability to attack the rim. He beat the Pacers to the basket time and again Thursday, burning close-outs for acrobatic layups at the rim, finishes off cuts, scoring in transition, and even putting small defenders in the post.

This shot chart is a work of art in the modern NBA:

This is Michael Porter Jr.'s shot chart lmao pic.twitter.com/khsjIv9soY

— Ryan Blackburn (@NBABlackburn) January 3, 2020

In his last three games, Porter is 22-of-28 from the field. This has always been a young player with remarkable touch from all three levels. He’s starting to show it now against the best players in the world.

The Nuggets just added another deadly weapon

Just look at how happy Porter’s Denver teammates were after the win over Indiana. They know he’s been waiting for this moment for a long time:

Congrats on the career night, Michael Porter Jr.! pic.twitter.com/9afPIDF5hu

— Nuggets Nation (@NuggetsNationCP) January 3, 2020

The Nuggets only had the opportunity to draft Porter after losing to Jimmy Butler and the Minnesota Timberwolves on the final day of the 2017-18 season. The Wolves earned the No. 8 seed with the victory and Denver got the last pick in the lottery. With a promising young core led by Nikola Jokic already in place, Denver was in a position to be patient with Porter and not rest the hopes and dreams of the franchise on his injured back. Instead, he could get healthy and contribute at his own pace without worrying about needing to be the organization’s one great hope.

Denver is again near the top of the Western Conference — currently in the No. 2 seed at 24-10 — as Porter begins his journey to becoming a regular contributor. Head coach Mike Malone hasn’t just handed him minutes, he’s had to work for every opportunity this season. Porter hasn’t had consistent playing time this season, but he gets closer to earning it with every flash of brilliance.

There is still plenty to work on. He isn’t much of a playmaker for his teammates yet, with only 11 assists in 257 minutes this year. He also will need to get tougher defensively. He’s only had three steals and eight blocks thus far. While he’s far from a finished product, Porter can already stockpile points as a scorer, and that should have Nuggets fans ecstatic.

It looks like everything worked out perfectly for both the player and the organization, given the situation. The Nuggets were in a rare position to let Porter take all the time he needed to get back to being himself. Porter never had to worry about being the franchise savior he once felt destined to be and instead can simply be a valuable contributor to a winning team.

At long last, the Michael Porter Jr. we were always promised might finally be here. Still only 21 years old, we can’t wait to see where his story takes him from here.

[ibestofthewestblog]

Les Schwab Invitational Player Preview

Player: Devin Askew

Team: Mater Dei (CA)

Height/Weight: 6′3″/200 pounds

Player comparison: Bradley Beal

      When Askew first came to the Les Schwab Invitational he was a precocious freshman backing up then senior Spencer Freedman for the Mater Dei.  Now he comes in as a junior and Kentucky commit and as a bonafide leader of the Monarchs.  Askew is not only the floor general of Mater Dei, but is the drum beat of the squad as he leads them with his emotional charge.  Devin will surely hurt you from the both ends of the  floor, as his pesky efforts on defense are just as impactful as his overall solid offensive game.  Devin may be the player in the entire tournament with the best ability to score from all three levels.  His sharp dribbling skills allow him to break down his defenders and as a result they are at his mercy.  He has the ability to pull up for a mid-range jumper or finish at the rim, depending on his choice of attack at the given moment.  He also hits the three-pointer with high accuracy, adding to his offensive arsenal.  It’s an added bonus that he has worked on his athleticism over the summer and now he can jam it on defenders in traffic.  

      Basketball is an all year event for Devin, as last summer he played for Team Why Not of the Nike EYBL, helping them to the final against Mokan Elite.  He played alongside Mater Dei teammate Wilhelm Breidenbach for Team Why Not, who is another Division 1 prospect for the Monarchs.  Askew was the emotional leader of the team, making big stops and key shots in big stretches against nationally ranked competition.  Kentucky’s John Calipari was present and made sure he would secure the West Coast’s best point guard in Lexington.  Askew has seen successful all across the lineage of high school basketball, being an invitee of USA junior basketball camp in Colorado Springs in October.  He also won a gold medal as a part of the USA team in the 2019 FIBA 2x2 U18 world championships in Mongolia this past summer.  In fact, he has seen so much successful at this point he is reportedly reclassifying early to play for Kentucky next season.  Whether that is true or not, you can surely count on Devin stealing this show next week at the Les Schwab Invational as the Monarchs are the favorites for the championship.   

[ibestofthewestblog]

2019 Les Schwab Invitational Preview

The 2016 Les Schwab Invitational saw Marvin Bagley from Sierra Canyon (CA) pitted against Michael Porter, Jr. of Nathan Hale (WA)

        The Les Schwab Invitational returns to Hillsboro, OR this holiday season for another stocking-stuffer of nationally ranked teams.  Within the last few years, the tournament has gained momentum for inviting the top teams and individual talent. Last year the tournament hosted the likes of super-team Sierra Canyon (CA) and University School (FL), along with their talented tandem of Vernon Carey and Scottie Barnes. This year, the out-of state powers invited to Oregon include Mater Dei (CA), Bishop Gorman (NV), Eastside Catholic (WA), & Norcross (WA).  The in-state teams are full of strength as well as notable Oregon players include Nate Bittle (Crater HS), Ben Gregg (Clackamas HS), Nathan Rawlins-Kibonge (Jefferson HS), amongst others.  The national tournament is renown for drawing large crowds and hooplah, including a blockbuster audience last year with Draymond Green, Jimmy Butler, Kenyon Martin, and Scottie Pippen in attendance.  Here is a preview of the out-of-state teams visiting as well as the top team in Oregon, the Jefferson Democrats.

Devin Askew looks to add some hardware to his accolades this season

Mater Dei (CA)

        Gary McKnight returns with another solid cast, headed by Devin Askew and Wilhelm Breidenbach.  Both played for the Nike EYBL Team Why Not, whom made it to the final, losing to Mokan Elite.  Devin Askew, Kentucky commit, is a flashy scoring combo guard that can dish the ball as well.  His ability to score at all three levels as well as his overall tenacity were full on display at the Nike EYBL.   His energy level is matched by Wilhem Breidenbach, who is a scrappy and physical 6’9” post player.  Wilhelm is a throwback player, who doesn’t mind playing down low and is incredibly blue collar in his approach to the game.  Breidenbach also has extended his range to the three-point line and looks to protect the paint for the Monarchs.  The Monarchs also have 6’4” shooting guard Aidan Prukop, who has shown his versatility as a shooter.  He can create his own shot, as well as shoot stationary, and is efficient at the three-point line.  Look for the Monarchs to bully their way into the championship game, which they did last in 2017 when the met the Oak Hill Academy Warriors in the LSI final.

Bishop Gorman’s Zaon Collins after defeating Chino Hills at the 2019 Nike Extravangaza 

Bishop Gorman (NV)

        The Gaels finished the season on a high note last year, being the last team to be invited to the prestigious Geico Nationals.  However, a bad chord struck with them as West Virginia commit Isiah Cotrell decided to transfer to Huntington Prep (WV) and Max Allen transferred to Heritage Christian (CA) right before the season.  However, Bishop Gorman is still ranked as the fifth best team by BallIsLife and they still have a national schedule to play.  The Gaels are led by the super-duo of Noah Taitz and Zaon Collins, whom both played for Nike EYBL Vegas Elite.  Noah Taitz, Stanford commit, is the bucket-getter for Bishop Gorman, as he will hurt you shooting from all over the court.  Zaon, on the other hand, is an absolute wizard with the ball that can mix and match down the lane.  He can hurt you in and out and has since added athletic ability to his arsenal and now he can and will dunk on you if you stand in his way to the rim.  Will McClendon is another ESPN ranked player that will hurt you on the perimeter, is flashy with the ball, and will help spread the wealth.  The Gaels will take the competition by storm as they seek for a LSI title.  

Eastside Catholic (WA)

        The Crusaders’ big three of Shane Noell, Nolan Hickman, and JT Tuimoloau were all on the Nike EYBL team that went to Peach Jam last spring and look to continue their chemistry.  Shane Noell and Nolan Hickman continue the theme of super backcourts in this tournament.  Shane Noell is more of the pure scorer, with his crafty abilities to score, whereas Nolan Hickman is the smooth operator.  Noell, the brother of former Husky Jaylen Noell, is ranked in the ESPN 100, and will handle most of the Crusader’s scoring load.  But don’t sleep on Nolan, as he is slowly becoming a national commodity, as this might be his coming out party to the country.  Hickman is a phenomenal guard with incredible ball skills that is slick with the rock.  JT, on the other hand, is more known for his work on the gridiron, being the top ranked Athlete in the ESPN 300.  The 6’5”, 277 pound defensive end is entertaining Division 1 football offers from the likes of Alabama and Ohio State, but has some skills on the hardwood as well.  JT will be a defensive beast as well as provide the Crusaders with some consistency in the low-post on offense.  Look for Eastside Catholic to make some noise in this tournament.  

Norcross (GA)

        Originally, the tournament intended to invite the Blue Devil’s for the talents of Kentucky commit BJ Boston.  However, the problem was that Boston packed his bags for Southern California to play for largely-heralded program, Sierra Canyon.  However, Norcross still has the talents of JT Thor, who is in the ESPN 100 and has his own recruiting trip to Kentucky.  The 6’9” versatile player can play point forward, as he can grab rebounds with his athletic ability and is agile enough to dribble down the length of the court and has the vision to pass to his teammates.  Thor’s ability to take his defender off the dribble is where he makes his money, as he can score his points in bunches off the mid-range game.  He has the ball on a string, as he plays and toys with his defenders before finding and sinking the shot he wants.  He i has a wide frame and is a defensive stopper as well as can fly with the best of them.  The Blue Devils have a large roster with several players over 6’5” as they look to show the nation that they can get the job done without BJ Boston.  

Jefferson (OR)

        The Democrats have been the talk of the Oregon high school hoops scene, however, for the wrong reasons.  The Demos have been the second best team in the State for two reasons in a row, falling in the State Title game two years in a row.  However, the season’s motto is the same for Jefferson: win the State Championship.  This year, Coach Pat Strickland’s challenge is meshing together this roster as last season they showed difficulties on the court throughout the season.  This year’s team is headlined by two-headed dragon Nathan Rawlins-Kibonge & Kamron Robinson.  Nathan is more of the bull-dog in your face player that will play physical all game long and not back down to anyone.  Rawlins-Kibonge recently accepted an offer to play basketball at Washington State, however, flirted with football this past season and now holds Division 1 football offers.  Kamron Robinson, whom has grown into his body is a 6’8” forward that can run the floor and now has a face up game.  The Demos’ secret weapon this season is Mookie Cook, who is the highly touted freshman with quite the ceiling.  The 6’5” guard can do a little of it all, as he will be the glue for the Demos this season.  Sophomore Lamar Washington will look to add upon his silky game, after impressing with his freshman campaign.  The Jefferson Democrat’s statement year will begin with signature wins in this star-studded tournament.  

Stay tuned for a recap!

[junker-town]

NBA mock draft 2018: Luka Doncic is No. 1, but Mohamed Bamba and Trae Young are charging

The Texas center and Oklahoma sharpshooter are rising up draft boards as the college basketball season enters conference play.

The 2018 NBA Draft class keeps looking better and better. As Luka Doncic continues to put up historic numbers in Europe, top NCAA freshmen like Arizona center Deandre Ayton and Duke’s Marvin Bagley III have lived up to every bit of recruiting hype they entered college with.

The college season has also given us some new breakout stars. Oklahoma freshman point guard Trae Young has become the story of the season, leading the NCAA in points and assists with dazzling play that’s drawn comparisons to Stephen Curry. There have also been some breakout upperclassmen, led by Villanova’s long-armed defensive ace Mikal Bridges.

With conference play in full swing, it’s time for a new mock draft. Let the tank-off begin.

1. Atlanta Hawks - Luka Doncic, G, Real Madrid

Luka Doncic might be the best player in Europe right now. Not the best prospect — best player. The 18-year-old is an advanced stats monster, leading Euroleague in BPM, posting a sterling 65 percent true shooting percentage and saving some of his best games for the biggest competition.

Doncic is not an elite athlete like many of this draft’s other top prospects, but he checks every other box. At 6’8, he plays as an oversized point guard, showing off excellent passing ability, a capable three-point stroke and a great feel for the game. There has never been a more accomplished European teenager to enter the draft.

For as good as many of the NCAA freshmen look right now, Doncic deserves to be the clear favorite for the No. 1 pick.

2. Boston Celtics - Mohamed Bamba, C, Texas

Bamba has the potential to be the type of player the NBA has never seen before. With a 7’9 wingspan, he’ll be the longest player in league history from the moment he’s drafted. He’s been an excellent rim protector for Texas as a freshman, posting a block rate of 16.8 percent (No. 4 in the country) and showing off the quickness and agility to stick with opposing guards.

Bamba’s offense is less polished, but it remains intriguing. He’s hit only two fewer three-pointers than Arizona’s Ayton on a similar number of attempts. He certainly doesn’t have Ayton’s post moves, but Ayton doesn’t have his defensive gifts. More than anything, he seems like a perfect fit for a Celtics team that can afford to wait for his potential to turn into production.

3. Orlando Magic - Deandre Ayton, C, Arizona

The Magic just need the best pure talent available. Ayton might not be a perfect fit for a team that already has Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac in the front court, but that should be of no concern if he’s is on the board. He’s simply too talented to pass on.

Ayton has been the most physically dominant player in college basketball this year, a 7-foot, 260-pound center with remarkable athleticism, touch around the basket and a developing skill set. He’s averaging 20.4 points and 11.6 rebounds per game while posting a 66 percent true shooting percentage. He needs to improve his instincts and effort on the defensive end, but he has all the tools to be a legitimate star in the NBA.

4. Memphis Grizzlies - Marvin Bagley III, PF/C, Duke

What do we make an 18-year-old big man who can score and rebound at will at the college level but doesn’t block shots or shoot threes the way NBA teams would like? That’s the rub with Bagley, who feels like he’ll need to land in a good situation to maximize his unique talent.

There’s no better place for him than Memphis. With a center like Marc Gasol who can space the floor and anchor the defense, Bagley can be free to score inside as his skill level develops. In the short term, he’ll succeed with elite athleticism, agility and a non-stop motor.

5. Dallas Mavericks - Michael Porter Jr., F, Missouri

Porter has been sidelined with a back injury the entire year at Mizzou, but NBA teams are very familiar with his game. Porter was arguably the top recruit in the country entering the season, a reputation he built by starring on big stages for USA Basketball and at the McDonald’s All-American Game and Nike Hoop Summit.

Porter is an explosive 6’10 combo forward who does his best work out on the perimeter. Not many players this size can create their own shot off the dribble this effortlessly. Scouts would have wanted to see just how good of a three-point shooter he could be at the college level. They also wanted to check in on his handle. But even if he doesn’t play this year, his natural talent alone makes him likely to be a top-five pick.

6. Sacramento Kings - Trae Young, PG, Oklahoma

While Porter was always projected as a top-five pick, few would have expected his grassroots ball teammate on Mokan Elite to be in the same conversation. Young was a McDonald’s All-American in high school, but he wasn’t a consensus top-20 recruit or a projected one-and-done. That’s changed now that he’s the biggest story in college hoops.

Young has essentially broken college basketball. He’s leading the NCAA in points per game and assists per game, a feat that’s never been done. He’s undersized at 6’2 and is a below the rim athlete, but he can shoot from anywhere, he’s a brilliant passer and he has a surprising knack for getting to the foul line.

Forget Young as the Next Steph — he’s actually the first Post-Curry player. The confidence, the craftiness, the propensity to break the rhythms of the game ..... it could only come from a youth spent watching Steph. Trae Young is going to have a great NBA career in his own right.

Plus, you know Vivek Ranadive can’t pass on anyone who draws comparisons to Steph.

7. Chicago Bulls - Jaren Jackson Jr., C, Michigan State

The secret to the Bulls’ surprising recent success is front court spacing. When Nikola Mirotic returned and paired with rookie Lauri Markkanen up front, Chicago suddenly had a wide open floor for Kris Dunn to pick apart. Now that the Bulls are expected to trade Mirotic, they would be wise to find another big man who can shoot.

That’s where Jaren Jackson Jr. comes in. The Michigan State freshman is only averaging 10.8 points and 6.5 rebounds per game — numbers that pale in comparison to what Ayton and Bagley are putting up. The difference is that Jackson’s skill set might fit the NBA better than both. He’s proved to be an effective shooter (43.5 percent on 2.7 threes per game) and shot blocker (3.2 blocks per game), something neither Bagley or Ayton can claim. He would be a great fit next to Markkanen and give Chicago a perimeter-oriented front court to build around in the future.

8. Cleveland Cavaliers - Collin Sexton, PG, Alabama

Will the Cavs trade this pick for a veteran in hopes of winning the NBA title and keeping LeBron James as a free agent this summer? It’s possible, but if Cleveland hangs onto the pick Alabama point guard Collin Sexton would be an ideal selection.

Sexton is a certified bucket-getter, averaging 20.6 points per game on a 59.5 percent true shooting percentage. His three-point stroke (38.8 percent) has been solid, but Sexton’s bread-and-butter is driving to the basket. He’s top-10 in the country at drawing fouls, per KenPom, and he’s an 80 percent shooter at the line when he gets there. Sexton’s intensity would make him a great running mate for LeBron or a stellar first building block if he leaves.

9. Phoenix Suns - Mikal Bridges, SF, Villanova

The Suns would ideally want a point guard with this pick, but in this scenario both Young and Sexton are off the board. They opt for Mikal Bridges, the redshirt junior who has grown into the type of 3-and-D wing NBA teams covet during his time at Villanova.

Bridges’ development has been slow, but he’s blossomed this year. He might be the best and most versatile perimeter defender in college basketball, combining a 7-foot wingspan with excellent quickness and anticipation. He’s also become a 45 percent three-point shooter this year. Combine both and he’s worthy of a top-10 pick even after four years in college.

10. Charlotte Hornets - Miles Bridges, SF, Michigan State

Miles Bridges shocked the NBA world by deciding to come back to Michigan State for his sophomore season. He’s remained a great player for the Spartans, but he hasn’t improved in any big areas. His three-point shooting has fallen from 39 percent to 34 percent and he hasn’t made major strides as a ball handler. Still: Bridges is a crazy athlete who can play above the rim at either forward spot at 6’6. He might be even more effective with NBA spacing.

11. Utah Jazz - Kevin Knox, SF, Kentucky

There are games where Knox looks like a surefire lottery pick and others where it’s hard to notice him on the floor. Case in point: these are his last two games.

1/9 vs. Texas A&M: 15 points on 5-of-5 shooting from the field and 2-of-2 shooting from three.

1/6 at Tennessee: six points on 1-of-9 shooting from the field and 0-of-5 shooting form three.

Knox may be raw, but at 6’9 with good athleticism and a developing shooting stroke, he has a lot of attributes NBA teams like. The guess here is that he ends up in the lottery unless his shooting really falls off.

12. Los Angeles Clippers - Robert Williams, C, Texas A&M

Williams is a center from Texas A&M with long arms, explosive leaping ability and the potential to turn into a great rim protector and lob target. Sound like someone else? That would be Clippers center DeAndre Jordan. Get a younger version like Williams in the mix, and LA suddenly has a valuable trade asset in Jordan.

13. New York Knicks - Troy Brown, G, Oregon

Brown was an oversized point guard early in his high school career before his coaches realized he was more valuable on the wing. Still, a lot of those point guard skills Brown honed over the years continue to come in handy: he’s a good passer and ball handler at 6’7 and is knocking down 35 percent of his threes. He’s also a quality defender. Troy Brown is the type of player who fills in the cracks. The Knicks could use him.

14. Philadelphia 76ers - Lonnie Walker, G, Miami

Walker missed the early part of the season as he recovered from a torn meniscus, and he’s still working his way back into shape for Miami. After a strong early season start, he hasn’t scored in double-figures the last six games. Still, at his best, Walker is an athletic 6’4 off-guard who can drive to the hoop and is developing as a shooter.

15. New Orleans Pelicans - Dzanan Musa, SF, Bosnia

Musa is a 6’9 shooter. There’s always a place in the league for someone like that:

16. Denver Nuggets - Hamidou Diallo, SG, Kentucky

Diallo is an A++ athlete. That’s the first thing everyone knows about him after he posted a record 44.5-inch vertical jump at the NBA draft combine last year. Kentucky fans had to enjoy this huge dunk against Louisville:

Diallo has also showed his skill level is rising, hitting 14-of-38 threes this season (36.8 percent). If he can learn to leverage his physical gifts on the defensive end, he should be a solid two-way player with better NBA spacing around him.

17. Indiana Pacers - Wendell Carter, PF/C, Duke

Carter should get drafted higher than this on talent alone. Two problems: there are a lot of big men in this draft, and Carter hasn’t been featured in Duke’s offense much with Bagley putting up gigantic numbers next to him. Still: Carter is big (260 pounds), long (7’3 wingspan), can score inside, has a developing jump shot and is a monster rebounder. It’s worth noting that he’s been at least partially liable for Duke’s weak defensive performance this season.

18. Detroit Pistons - Trevon Duval, PG, Duke

Duval is a great athlete with long arms who thrives on driving to the hoop and putting pressure on opposing ball handlers. That’s the point guard archetype Stan Van Gundy loves. Unfortunately, Duval is extremely raw as an outside shooter (7-for-42 on threes this season), otherwise he’d be drafted much higher.

19. Milwaukee Bucks - Keita Bates-Diop, G, Ohio State

Bates-Diop is a rising senior who has blossomed into someone who deserves to be on NBA radars amid a breakout season. At 6’7, 235 pounds, KBD looks like a legit 3-and-D wing. He’s more than doubled his scoring average from last season (20 points per game) while shooting 52.5 percent from the field and 38.8 percent from three.

20. Portland Trail Blazers - Anfernee Simons, SG, IMG Academy

Simons is a five-star recruit who could enter the draft as a fifth-year prep school player. He’s a late bloomer who still desperately needs to gain strength, but his natural talent for creating offense off the dribble is undeniable. That’s why ESPN initially had him projected as the No. 5 pick in their 2019 mock draft. It will be fascinating to see if he goes to college or chooses to enter the draft.

21. Minnesota Timberwolves - Shake Milton, PG, SMU

Milton isn’t the most explosive point guard, but he has great size (6’6) and has shot above 40 percent from three-point range every year of his college career.

22. Phoenix Suns - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, PG, Kentucky

Kentucky’s freshman guard was a relative unknown coming into the season, but he’s had some great games on big stages. Most notably: 24 points against Louisville on Dec. 29 and 21 points against Georgia on Dec. 31. With a 7-foot wingspan, he’s long and athletic. If his three-point shot is for real (9-of-20 on the season), he could be Kentucky’s best player and best prospect.

23. Washington Wizards - Lagerald Vick, SG, Kansas

The Kansas wing is quietly having a breakout junior year. Vick doesn’t have great size for a wing at 6’5, 175 pounds, but he’s becoming a knockdown shooter (46 percent from three) and has raised his assists from 0.9 to 3.3 per game since last season.

24. Atlanta Hawks - Mitchell Robinson, C

Robinson is an ultra bouncy 7-footer who should make his money blocking shots and catching lobs. It’s a damn shame college fans didn’t get to enjoy him at Western Kentucky this season.

25. Cleveland Cavaliers - Khyri Thomas, SG, Creigton

Thomas has a reputation as one of college basketball’s best perimeter defenders, and he’s hitting 39 percent of his threes for the second season in a row. Every NBA team needs 3-and-D guards. He can also do this:

DON'T HURT 'EM! http://pic.twitter.com/supB1qKyuG

— NCAA March Madness (@marchmadness) January 10, 2018

26. San Antonio Spurs - Justin Jackson, F, Maryland

Jackson is out for the season with a shoulder injury, but don’t sleep on his NBA prospects. He’s a versatile defender with a 7’3 wingspan and hit 43.8 percent of his threes last year as a freshman.

27. Atlanta Hawks - Jevon Carter, PG, West Virginia

Carter is an absolutely ferocious perimeter defender who is bound to draw comparisons to Patrick Beverly. Just ask Trae Young. He’s also shooting 39.5 percent from three and is averaging 6.9 assists per game. Suddenly, Carter finds himself as the senior star of the No. 2 team in the country. He could end up a first rounder by June.

28. Brooklyn Nets - Chandler Hutchison, SF, Boise State

Hutchison has developed into an NBA sleeper during his senior year at Boise State. The versatile 6’7 wing is averaging 18.1 points per game as well as a career-high 3.5 assists per game. His three-point shot will likely make or break a pro career. At 37.5 percent on 3.2 attempts per game this season, so far, so good.

29. Boston Celtics - Jalen Hudson, SF, Florida

Hudson is a 6’6 redshirt junior wing who broke out during the PK80 tournament, dropping 25 points on Gonzaga and 24 points on Duke. He’s become an ace shooter this year, knocking down 44.4 percent of the six threes per game he’s attempting.

30. Golden State Warriors - Aaron Holiday, PG, UCLA

A tough point guard with good scoring instincts and a reliable three-point shooting stroke. There’s already two Holiday brothers in the NBA. Why not three?

[ontapsportsapp]

Jontay Porter, No. 26 player in 2018, commits to Missouri - ESPN

ESPN

Jontay Porter, No. 26 player in 2018, commits to Missouri ESPN The skilled 6-foot-10 forward has had one of the most impressive spring sessions in the country, averaging 18.1 points and 12.7 rebounds per game for MoKan Elite on the Nike EYBL circuit. Porter is currently a member of the 2018 class but is ... Jontay Porter's commitment continues transformative offseason for MizzouKansas City Star 4-Star PF Jontay Porter Commits to Missouri After Decommitting from WashingtonBleacher Report Former Garfield star & UW recruit Jontay Porter commits to MissouriKGMI Rock M Nation (blog) all 20 news articles »

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Michael Porter Jr. is the superstar recruit the basketball world orbits around

Michael Porter Jr. can’t miss. Basketball’s next big thing has had a wild ride to get to this point.

CHICAGO — When Michael Porter Jr. was first offered a scholarship by Missouri, the idea of a top basketball recruit playing in Columbia didn’t seem completely out of the ordinary. At the time, the Tigers were on their way to a 30-5 season that would land them a No. 2 seed in the NCAA tournament.

This was the type of success Missouri had come to expect. The program was only a few years removed from a trip to the Elite Eight and in the midst of a stretch of five straight NCAA tournament appearances. It had recently produced a first round NBA draft pick in DeMarre Carroll and was watching Marcus Denmon turn in an All-American season.

So when Porter was taking jumpers in Mizzou Arena one night and was pulled aside by head coach Frank Haith, he knew he would seriously consider the scholarship that was being offered. Porter thanked the coach, but he didn’t accept it right away. That would have been entirely premature -- after all, Michael Porter Jr. was only in seventh grade.

Almost six years later, Porter finally gave Mizzou his commitment earlier this month. In the time that’s passed since, he grew to 6’10, became the No. 1 recruit in America, started dating a Disney actress and grew close with NBA stars Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant.

So much has changed for both the player and the program over those six years, but Porter’s talent has remained the one constant.

Porter heard chants of “M-I-Z/Z-O-U” as he accepted the MVP award at the 2017 McDonald’s All-American Game on Wednesday night. He just scored 17 points to lead his West team to victory in a performance that included brief flashes of his all-world talent.

For Porter, this was just another mile marker in his long coronation as the best young basketball prospect in the world. It’s what was always supposed to happen. But for the Mizzou fans that stuck around the United Center to shower their newest recruit in praise, this moment was surreal.

The dream of Porter playing in the gym where he grew up was supposed to have died long ago. Porter had committed to Washington and moved 2,000 miles from Columbia to Seattle. He just finished a perfect 29-0 senior season at Nathan Hale High School under coach Brandon Roy, the former NBA star by way of Washington who started coaching only to coach Porter Jr. He would be off the Huskies in the fall and after one season he’d be in the running for the No. 1 pick in the 2018 NBA Draft.

At least that was what was supposed to happen. Instead, a major shakeup at two proud programs that had fallen under tough times threw Porter’s world into flux just when everything was expected to settle down.

“The last three weeks changed my life,” Porter Jr. said before the McDonald’s All-American Game. “Whatever happened, I knew God got me. I’ll be alright. But it was an emotional time.”

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

There is never a boring story about how a top basketball recruit choses his college. The stakes are too high and the money is too big for that. But even in the weird world of college basketball recruiting, the circumstances that led Porter to Washington and then Missouri stand out as particularly convoluted.

For Michael Porter Jr., everything is a family affair, so that’s where the story starts.

Both of his parents stand 6’4 played college basketball, his father Michael Porter Sr. at New Orleans and his mother Lisa at Iowa and then professionally in Europe. Together they had eight children and at least half of them turned into big-time basketball prospects, none of them bigger than Michael Jr.

Michael Porter Sr. got into coaching off the talent of his children. In 2010, he accepted a job in the Missouri athletic department and later became an assistant coach as his two oldest daughters Bri and Cierra went on to play for the Tigers.

At the same time, Michael Jr. was blossoming into one of the country’s best young prospects. As his recruitment started to heat up, Michael Sr. accepted an assistant coaching job across the country at Washington under his long-time friend Lorenzo Romar, who happens to be Michael Jr.’s godfather.

The Porters would move out to Seattle and Michael Jr. would give his commitment to Washington shortly after. He would be homeschooled just as he was for much of his life, but he and his younger brother Jontay, a top-50 prospect in his own right in the class of 2018, decided to play at Nathan Hale, a school that was coming off a 3-18 season.

As the Porters came to Nathan Hale, so too did Roy. It was a perfect match: a former NBA star grooming a future one, and the results were undeniable. Nathan Hale went 29-0 and won a state championship as Porter Jr. was named national player of the year and Roy was named national coach of the year. It all should have seemed too good to be true for Washington fans, but it happened as the program was deteriorating on the court.

Washington finished 9-22 and missed the NCAA tournament for the sixth straight year. They did it with Markelle Fultz, the likely No. 1 pick in June’s NBA draft. The administration decided it didn’t need to watch the exact same scenario unfold again and fired Romar after 15 years on the job.

Suddenly, the biggest packaged deal in college basketball was back on the market.

Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

Mizzou had nowhere to go but up. During Kim Anderson’s three seasons, the Tigers had amassed a 27-68 record, never winning more than 10 games and finishing in the basement of the SEC every year.

Anderson was fired earlier this month and replaced by former Cal coach Cuonzo Martin. Martin came with the reputation of a man who knew how to get things done: he once got top recruit Jaylen Brown to pay his own way from Atlanta to Berkley to visit the Golden Bears after his five official visits were used up. Brown committed shortly after to join fellow five-star recruit Ivan Rabb.

The Bears would ultimately underachieve that season with a first round NCAA tournament loss to Hawaii, but Martin’s status has an elite recruiter was sealed. When he took the Mizzou job, his first move was to call Michael Porter Sr. and offer him a spot on his staff.

Seven days later, Michael Jr. announced he was coming home.

All of this happened so fast for the Porters, but they knew they were lucky to have family at their side. Not even a month removed from being caught in the center of a storm that would change their lives, both father and son are doing well to keep things in perspective.

“Michael is used to things going his way,” Michael Porter Sr. said at the McDonald’s Game. “When it happened, it through him for a loop. I’m just glad he’s going through some of this while he’s still at home with us so we can help him process it.”

For his part, Michael Jr. seems at peace. He handled every media request during McDonald’s week with thoughtfulness and grace. It’s clear he already carries himself like a professional.

As anyone who has watched him play knows, it’s only a matter of time before he’ll be exactly that.

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Porter’s talent would have been in demand in any era, but he feels uniquely suited for the way the game has been trending recently. He’s the type of versatile, hybrid forward every team wants but so few have.

At 6’10 and 215 pounds, Porter has the size of a big man and skill set of a wing. He was draining jumpers off of dribble pull-ups throughout the two practices that proceeded the McDonald’s Game, and he did it while flashing the elite athleticism that separates him from everyone else.

Like any 18-year-old, Porter is still growing into himself and his game. Still, it’s easy to see a future star with the training wheels on. His jump shot is pure and he gets his head to rim-level for rebounds and dunks. He said he wants to be his own player, but sees parts of Tracy McGrady and Kevin Durant in his skill set. Durant sees it, too.

Durant sponsored Porter’s grassroots team Mokan Elite ahead of last season on the EYBL. The two text often. That’s not the only famous former MVP in his phone.

Porter first met Steph Curry when he was invited to his SC Select Camp for elite guards. Porter was the tallest player there, but he quickly developed a connection with the Warriors star. For two days this past summer, Porter flew out to the Bay Area to train with Curry. He said they talk every month.

If basketball is a fraternity, Porter Jr. is already a member. His talent is undeniable and his approach to his burgeoning celebrity status is developed beyond his years. He already looks and talks like basketball’s next big thing because he’s been preparing for this for years.

In between winning state championships in high school, conquering the grassroots circuit and rising up the recruiting rankings, the basketball world has learned one thing: Michael Porter Jr. can’t miss. If the everyone else doesn’t know it yet, they will soon.