The grassroots landscape is an intensely competitive setting for young kids to try and achieve their goals in making it to the collegiate ranks. Given the overabundance of talent within North Carolina, we've grown accustomed to seeing extremely talented players take the JUCO route as opposed to other alternatives. Whether for grades, lack of exposure, or something completely different, each of these players has their own respective mission. Just recently, El Ellis parlayed his JUCO success into becoming one of the hottest prospects in the country and ultimately committing to Louisville. Additionally, Jay Scrubb entering the NBA Draft only further proves the potential possibilities. JUCOs look to elevate kids, not keep them down. That being said, we will take a closer look at five notable names who college coaches should be watching closely during the upcoming season…
6'5 Jordan Love (Dodge City CC)
Although each prospect listed exited high school with plenty of buzz, the general public probably needs a reminder regarding the abilities of Jordan Love. Formerly a major name for Voyager and Durham Hurricanes, he committed to SEMO, redshirted, found opportunities his freshman year, improved his production across the board as a sophomore, and then opted to transfer following the season. For those who don't remember, Love is an efficient three-level scoring guard with size (6-foot-5), athleticism, and creation skills. There should be so much appeal surrounding his dynamic identity, and various levels of scholarship-level programs should act accordingly.
6'7 Jakob Moore (Cape Fear CC)
We certainly aren't that far removed from watching Jakob Moore shining as a key cog with Mount Tabor and Team Winston, so folks should still be pretty aware of his overall makeup. He's a valuable defensive piece due to his uncommon blend of rim-protection instincts and fluidity to hedge ball-screens/defend in space. Entering his senior year of high school, Moore completely transformed his body whilst continuing to add offensive polish. He possesses touch, athleticism, and a fairly low-maintenance approach, which allows him to mesh well with any collection of players. Moore also rebounds the ball at a strong rate, runs the floor in transition, and makes an impact within the flow of the action. Expect a wide range of programs to be in pursuit.
6'1 Christian Hampton (Tallahassee CC)
Quite possibly the most talented, highly touted prospect of this group coming out of high school, Christian Hampton should have a ton of programs to choose from. He's an incredible physical, explosive, overwhelming athlete with the blend of IQ, toughness, and leadership qualities to consistently set the tone. Hampton is a respectable shooter, but typically looks to attack the basket, make smart passes, and dominate opponents with his defensive prowess. He's excellent at forcing turnovers, both on-ball and by intercepting passing lanes, and will regularly finish transition opportunities with unbelievable finishes. Hampton is the type of player who will be successful in any type of role with any type of team, which is why all types of programs should be involved.
6'9 Nick Pringle (Dodge City CC)
Given the massive blow-up of Nick Pringle prior to attending Wofford, it should come as no surprise to see his name appear on this list. For starters, his unique array of skills as an athletic, floor-spacing, 6-foot-9 forward/post prospect already makes him somewhat of a mismatch problem. Add in the fact that he still has considerable upside remaining, and tons of programs should be enticed. Pringle is a quality rebounder, shot-blocker, and inside-out scoring piece with the overall athleticism to consistently outwork his assignment. He possesses a nice motor, terrific length, and quality touch around the basket. Expect a lot of schools to prioritize Pringle coming out of Dodge City.
6'2 Jajuan Carr (Cape Fear CC)
Only time will tell, but it's still extremely difficult to envision a scenario where Jajuan Carr doesn't succeed. Various folks have expressed concerns with his lack of emotion, though it has literally no effect on his basketball abilities. Generally speaking, most coaches should be pretty excited for an all-around guard with the ability to run a team as a balanced floor general on either end of the floor. Carr is a quality athlete, defender, playmaker, and scorer from all levels with a visibly high IQ and strong rebounding instincts for his position. Although it didn't work out at UNCW, folks should still covet the two-way point guard.
