We have said it before, in fact the last time we said it James picked up his first two Division 1 offers the following week. 6’7” 225 pound DJ James is a very talented, ultra-productive, unique player. A player with whom Division 1 schools should start taking seriously, not only as a prospect, but the top prospect on many recruiting boards.
The 2017 class had JP Moorman, from Greensboro Day, who acted as the mis match forward who could go between either positions based on matchups. Well James has a similar type of stature and uniqueness to his game that Moorman had. Moorman ended up with over 20 offers and signed with Temple.
This season, James is the second leading scorer in the state of South Carolina at 28.5 per game. He is a big and strong player, but the unique part comes in the fact he is shooting 44% from 3 this year. He has a very soft touch when his feet are set and a quick, soft release.
James, the second leading scorer, is also leading the state of South Carolina in rebounding at almost 13 per game. The unique nature of that is that he is also averaging over 3 assists per game. James is a playmaking forward.
His high school team uses him in multiple areas going from the block to the high post. Then when they need a play, James goes to the top of the key, calls for the ball, and is able to get into the paint off the bounce or pull up for a jump shot.
James is a 2-time alum of the prestigious South Carolina Top 80 Exposure Camp. This camp brings together the best talent the state has to offer, under one roof to have them compete in front of national scouts and media. After James’ performance in the 2016 SC Top 80 we wrote, “James is a unique talent as he has a very strong and sturdy frame, to go along with a great skill set. James displayed good range, toughness on the boards, and the handle to get his team into sets. James’ camp coach Stefon Milhouse stated, “Dontarius has a very high IQ for his size. He did a good job finishing plays and getting his team mates involved.”
Currently James carries offers from Old Dominion and South Carolina State. We were in the gym watching him last week, a packed gym, and no college coaches were there. That is a shame, considering all the facts – 6’7”, 225 pounds, 28.5 points, 44% from 3, almost 13 boards, 3 assists, and the list goes on. James will end up making a college coach very happy.