By JEREMY WOO
Special to ZAGSBLOG
MEQUON, Wisc. — It’s always a treat to watch two top high school big men go head-to-head.
Wednesday at the NY2LA/UnderArmour Summer Jam, spectators got to see four at once. With reportedly over 450 college coaches in attendance for the first day of July’s second open period, the action didn’t disappoint.
On one court, it was Cliff Alexander and the Mac Irvin Fire against Myles Turner and Texas Select. On the other, Karl Towns Jr. and Sports U took on Kevon Looney’s Milwaukee Running Rebels.
The two games side by side—with a who’s who of coaches watching both from the bleachers—was a sight to say the least. Tom Izzo, Rick Pitino, Bill Self, Jim Boeheim and John Groce, among others, took in the show.
Each big man brought something different to the floor. Alexander’s physicality and relentless motor contrasted Turner’s impressive variety of offensive skills. The seven-foot Towns’ unusual versatility shone along with Looney’s faceup and off-the-dribble exploits.
The Fire pulled away for a 59-36 win after falling behind early. Alexander nearly stole the show with an outstanding interior performance, recording eight points and rebounds but wowing the crowd with his strength and athletic ability. One coach in attendance called him the best player at the entire Peach Jam last weekend. Kentucky, Michigan State, Illinois, Louisville and Kansas were some of his suitors lining the stands.
Turner, who until recently was a relative unknown on the national scene, put up nine points, 10 rebounds and three blocks—a solid game that flashed his massive upside despite a poor team result. His recruitment has really just begun, with a bevy of schools jockeying for his services and many looking on.
On the other court, Towns notched only nine points and three rebounds but made a substantial impact in limited playing time. The Kentucky commit was impressive, leading his team to a 69-66 win. Looney’s 19 and 8 in front of his hometown crowd spurred the Rebels. Suitors including Duke, Michigan State and Florida were all present.
Witnessing the two games posed the question: is the 2014 crop of big men the best in recent memory?
Consider the fact that Jahlil Okafor of the Fire, the highest rated of the bunch, was at home resting after a whirlwind summer that included a gold medal with USA’s U19 squad. Also remember Trey Lyles and Syracuse commit Chris McCullough, two more highly-sought after post players who rank in many a top ten.
You can rank those seven however you want — the collection of raw talent and is undeniable. It’s still difficult to predict who will make the best pro, and many of the commitment dominoes have yet to fall into place.
For now, enjoy the possibilities with this class. They certainly seem endless.
Wednesday’s Top Performers
· Chris Chiozza—Team Thad’s star guard and Florida commit notched 15 points and chipped in several clutch buckets, dictating the pace in an OT win over the Illinois Wolves.
· Joe Burton—The Houston Defenders forward put up 35 points and had the highlight of the night with a monster dunk in a victory against Team Loaded NC. Missouri, Oklahoma State, Kansas State and Texas A&M are some of the schools to watch.
· Isaiah Whitehead—Whitehead was ruthless, scoring 18 points and grabbing seven boards against KC Run GMC. His ability to play fast and under control combined with his high motor makes him difficult to stop. Syracuse, Minnesota, St. John’s and UCLA are hot in pursuit.
· Chase Jeter—The rising junior big man scored 12 points and showed a nice range of skills alongside fellow 2015 star Stephen Zimmerman for Dream Vision. He has interest from Kansas, Duke, North Carolina and a slew of other top programs.
