Each year, it seems like dozens of prospects are left in an unfavorable position while simply trying to receive appropriate recruitment from college coaches. Understandably, there are more college-level players than college opportunities available. However, that simply does not excuse the massive oversight that continues to carry over from season to season. While there are plenty of applicable examples from the past few seasons, one could argue that Jamori McDougald's lack of traction is as frustrating as any individual in recent memory. Between constant production, physical growth, and being one of the most consistently reliable floor generals in North Carolina, McDougald is worthy of a drastic shift in recruitment. It's somewhat perplexing that this situation even requires explanation, but let's try to see where the disconnect falls'
As a freshman, McDougald was already highly regarded and immediately received meaningful minutes for Southern Lee. Not only was he the only freshman on the team, but the Cavaliers' 25-4 record should also remind folks that he wasn't in a situation (like so many others) where he had the ultimate green light. After making a quality playoff run and seeing the departure of three seniors, McDougald announced his transfer to Trinity Christian.
He shared the court with the likes of Todd Burt, Marcus Boykin, Travon Jackson, Rob Wright, Freddie Dilione, Cam Oates, and Xavier Tubbs. Regardless of the Crusaders' abundance of talent, McDougald still posted nightly averages of 7.4 PPG, 3.5 APG, and 1.3 SPG with shooting splits of 41/35/70. The numbers might not jump off the page, but add in Trinity Christian's 26-3 record and it's starting to become increasingly evident that McDougald is simply a winner.
After their three seniors advanced to the collegiate ranks, the balanced point guard prospect put forth an impressive travel ball season amidst a ton of adversity. Entering his junior season, the expectations were as high as ever and, just like always, McDougald delivered in seamless fashion. His calm, steady demeanor allowed him to quietly dominate opposing guards while subsequently improving his numbers across the board. The per-game averages of 14.1 PPG, 3.8 APG, and 1.1 SPG with noticeably higher shooting splits of 56/42/70 should speak for themselves. The Crusaders finished with a 11-8 record, as circumstances largely derailed their nonstop success (strictly between injuries and player movement). That being said, it's difficult to place blame on McDougald.
Now, the dynamic, heady floor general is coming off an amazing summer season with Fayetteville Flash, and looks more than prepared to take over as the undisputed leader of Overhills High School. In terms of his actual identity, McDougald is a smart, unselfish point guard with phenomenal vision and three-level scoring ability. He's quick and crafty, but his overall pace and understanding of how to attack certain angles is what separates him from other players. McDougald stands out as a sharp defender and decision-maker with natural instincts for forcing turnovers and making plays in the open floor. He's also equally as reliable in transition as the half-court set. After announcing his growth to 6-foot-2, there is absolutely no possible justification for McDougald's lack of offers. He has been legitimately forced to fight for every opportunity, so this is pretty familiar territory. Only time will tell, but a next-level program will getting a true gem in McDougald.