COLUMBUS, Ohio -- As usual, Rob Taylor's Buckeye Prep Elite Showcase featured some of the top middle and high school prospects in the state. Although there were a number of very talented players in the gym, a handful of players logged in outstanding performances, and staked a claim as high-major caliber prospects.
Widely considered as one of the top 2013 wings in Ohio, Lakota West's Monty Boykins more than lived up to his billing. At 6-foot-3, the silky smooth and highly skilled shooting guard possesses a complete game and a high basketball IQ. Boykins can not only score from the 3-point line but also from midrange. It's clear he cares about defense as well from his play at the showcase, where he established himself as a definite Division I prospect with a bright future. According to his father, Boykins has already been offered by Miami of Ohio in only his sophomore season.
Arguably the top 2014 prospect at the event was Akron Buchtel's Chris Davis, who recently move from Phoenix, Ariz. The 6-5 power forward electrified the gym with his athleticism and rim-rattling dunks. Davis as has only been playing organized basketball since the seventh grade, so there are still areas of his game that require development, however, his upside potential is unlimited.
The eighth grade division of the showcase may have been the most competitive based on the depth of talent. At the top of the heap was Amos "AJ" Harris, a 5-8 floor general from Dayton, Ohio. When you talk about 2015 prospects, there may not be a better player in the state. Harris has a rare combination of skill, athleticism and toughness. The Dayton Dunbar-bound Harris has been drawing Juwan Staten (University of Dayton) comparisons with his explosiveness and ability to get to and finish at the rim. Although Harris can score the ball, he also does a great job of leading his team. He is a willing and able passer who possesses great court vision. As his jumper continues to develop, Harris has a chance to be ranked among the top point guards in the country.
Notes
• Sophomore Zach Denny, a 6-0 shooting guard from Valley View High School in the Dayton, Ohio area, shot the ball well and his overall performance resulted in his selection to the showcase all-star game.
• Keep an eye out for 2014 6-5 combo wing Carlin Dupree from Bay View High School in Milwaukee, Wisc. Dupree, like Davis, is very explosive and plays above the rim.
• MaCio Teague, a 5-8 eight-grade PG from Springdale, Ohio had a big day as well. Teague is aggressive and does a great job of getting to the cup, where he finishes more times than not.
John Stovall, a recruiting coordinator, has worked as director of scouting for Prep Spotlight Scouting Service and magazine for 15 years.