Jaden Springer is quite a familiar name around this area of North Carolina, as he was a star around the state with his play. He was one of the top players in his class, eventually won North Carolina Top 80 at Phenom Hoops, was then a star at IMG Academy, and ended up being a big recruit for the Tennessee Volunteers.
Going back to as far as 2014 with Phenom Hoops, there was nothing but praise about Springer’s game. Check out what was said about him in the past:
“Jaden is blessed with athleticism and a matching skillset. The thing that separates Jaden from his peers is his competitive nature. Jaden plays hard and with an intense purpose. Jaden is very coachable. His athleticism is very high for his age/grade level. Looking forward to seeing great things in the future for him.” While his strongest attribute is his athleticism and physically maturity, he has a solid midrange jumper. More importantly, he plays with a chip on his shoulder. Jaden scored excellent marks in effort, team play, and ability to finish, defense on the ball, quickness, footwork and rebounding his position.” – NC Junior Phenom in 2014
“Even after his year at IMG Academy, it feels like Springer is slightly underrated. There simply are not ten players in the country better than him. Last year, he was easily the most impressive junior at this event but was ultimately forced to sit with an injury. Springer has a complete game with IQ, size, vision, athleticism, and unmatched scoring ability. He checks every box and is capable of dominating every facet of the game. It would be difficult to envision any scenario where Springer doesn’t continue to look like an elite prospect during camp.” – Phenom Hoops at NBA Top 100 Camp
“Offensively, he’s in a category of his own. Springer is able to create scoring opportunities on every possession, for himself or others, and does so with phenomenal efficiency. His athleticism and high-flying dunks are among his main attractions, but his IQ and unmatched scoring instinct will have coaches calling. Springer has always been a plus-defender and displays a strong understanding for how to shut down opposing guards.” – Jeff Bendel in 2018
Now, he is producing at a high level at Tennessee as a freshman. Averaging 10.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and shooting 50 percent from the floor and three, Springer is rising up many draft boards. He is now coming off a career-high on the road in a rivalry game vs. Kentucky, in which he finished with 23 points in 35 minutes.
When Springer plays well and with a strong, aggressive feel, something he has shown many times this season, the Vols have been able to get the win. Springer does a tremendous job in attacking opponents and operating inside the arc, as well as getting others involved and using his 6’4 frame on the boards as well. He plays with great energy, handles pressure well, and knows how to finish. It is why Tennessee fans should be excited about having him on the floor.
It is just the start for Springer and it will be interesting to see how he continues to develop his game and rise up the NBA draft boards.