We've seen a lot of players come through our doors over the years, varying in appearance, skill level, and everything in between. We decided to put forth a 'Getting to Know' series on some players who have attended events but still remain on the lesser-known side of things. Each of these prospects embody being a student-athlete and getting it done in the classroom as well as on the basketball court, and today's edition will take a closer look at'Jah Saigo of Ragsdale High School.
We've seen Saigo with his high school team and countless times with the NC Gaters, where we most recently stated, 'The dynamic of this NC Gaters team is always interesting, especially after Nolan Hodge's commitment and the emergence of Julius Harrison as a star'but it still feels like Jah Saigo is among the more underrated pieces on this team. Like various others, he takes a lesser role for the betterment of this team. Saigo is a strong, physically overwhelming wing prospect with the combination of size, skill, and toughness to naturally cause matchup problems. He's way too skilled and mobile for those who can actually handle his strength, and far too powerful for any normal-sized perimeter player to contain. Saigo finds opportunities within the flow of the action, although he's shown the ability and instincts to produce within a bigger role. He rebounds very well for his position and utilizes his body effectively to outwork opponents defensively. Saigo is a capable passer and scorer with more than enough ability to find success at the next level.'
Although he doesn't typically receive as much attention as Hodge or Scovens, Saigo continues to prove his value with this squad. He's a near-dominant leader with Ragsdale, and willingly embraces his role with the Gaters on both ends of the floor. He's strong, skilled, and fairly adaptable wing prospect with the toughness of an interior player and the well-rounded abilities of a perimeter piece. Saigo can spot-up or effectively create for himself and others, simply based on team need. He's a quality rebounder, especially for his position, and looks to push transition play whenever possible. Saigo is a sturdy, reliable defender with the two-way identity to be an asset for various programs at the next level. College coaches should be excited to see his continued production through the upcoming high school season.