The most distinct difference in the HSH/2K Sports national Top 50 player ranking and everyone else’s is that we disregard class. To us, a baller is a baller; doesn’t matter how old you are or when you’re slated to graduate.
Our rankings also aren’t based on what type of prospect you’ll be in the future, what college you pick or don’t pick, or what city you’re from. For this updated version of the Top 50 — the first we’ve done since the Class of 2010 seniors graduated — all that matters is what you did on this summer’s AAU circuit and what you did last season. We had eyes and ears at pretty much every major event, and saw every player on this list multiple times. MORE >
Though he’s got the skills and the frame (6-3, 165 lbs.) to warrant the comparison, at this point it’s a little cliché to refer to Rodney Purvis as the next John Wall.
Still, from recruiting analysts to junkies to casual fans, everyone wants to get their own take on North Carolina’s next big thing.
“I’ve noticed that I’ve been getting a lot more attention,” said Purvis, a freshman point guard from Upper Room Christian Academy (Raleigh, N.C.). “It’s been pretty cool. I don’t really get into all of that attention and things like that. I just love the game, but yeah I’ve noticed that it’s picked up.” MORE >
If you don’t know about 6-3 freshman phenom Rodney Purvis, then you don’t know prep hoops. Our friends at Hoopmixtape caught up with the kid from Upper Room Christian Academy in Raleigh, N.C. (the same hometown as good friend John Wall) showing out against Wayne Country Day. Check out some of the highlights.
Upper Room Christian Academy (Raleigh, N.C.) point guard Rodney Purvis has decided to switch from the CP3 All-Stars AAU to the Boo Williams Summer League for the upcoming AAU season, because BWSL is allowing him to run the point exclusively.
“At this point, I want to concentrate on being a point guard full-time,” said Purvis, who will run with the 16-and-under team. “I just think it’s important for me to continue to develop.”
That might sound a bit extreme since Purvis is just a 15-year-old freshman, but when you’re good enough to be dubbed “the next John Wall” things have a way of taking off fast. MORE >
Rivers' quickness makes defenders want to back up, but his shooting ability makes them have to guard him close. No player in the country hunts and finds his shot as aggressively as Rivers, who tallied more 40-point games than anybody in the country this summer. The scary part is that he's getting better and better every day.
Miller dominates all facets offensively, but his best attribute may be his ability to keep the defense off balance with his shooting ability from deep. Miller averaged 32 points during the 2010 AAU season.
Committed to Kentucky. Combines a quick first step with some of the best handles on this list to dominate opponents. Teague is a gifted scorer in a variety of different ways and involves teammates to balance his repertoire.
Committed to Texas. Kabongo may be the best leader in the senior class, and his ability to create for his teammates is exceptional. He's ultra quick and breaks down the defense with ease to finish in the lane or knock down the jump shot.
Committed to North Carolina. Solid with his back to the basket, but better at finishing plays. He's skilled enough to knock down the short jumper and has an overactive motor.
Muhammad is smooth but effective, evidenced by his 31-point average during the AAU season. His jump shot is accurate and he uses his big, strong body to absorb contact and finish in the paint.
Committed to Kentucky. Lean and quick, Davis uses his athleticism and skill to dominate in the paint. He's versatile enough to consistently knock down jump shots and has a solid handle. Davis gave opposing big men fits all summer.
The youngster ranked this high? Yes indeed! Purvis is the perfect combination of athleticism and skill and has a gear that most only dream about. His jumper has improved, and he's a lockdown defender that gets to the cup whenever he wants against whoever he wants.
Committed to Ohio State. Don't let the height fool you, Ross is quicker than most perimeter defenders and long enough to finish in the lane for high-percentage shots, yet has the ability to consistently hit outside shots. He's added a fadeaway that's almost as automatic as a layup.
