Dezmond Hopkins 5’10 180 2024 Benton Middle School, Manassas VA / VA Playmakers
Dezmond is a left-handed shooter with a textbook stroke who can score from anywhere on the floor, really solid and efficient pulling up off the dribble and in catch and shoot opportunities in the mid-range. He has three-point range and very good shot consistency but I am most impressed with his ability to shoot off the dribble and with his ability to use his strong upper body to bully smaller guards to create separation for the jumper and to get where he wants with the dribble. He can drive hard and abruptly stop and smoothly elevate and knockdown dribble pull-ups at a high rate.
He is very good at changing direction mid-stride without losing speed or control of the basketball. Not only a very good shooter with three-level scoring potential Dezmond is extremely dangerous off the dribble as well using stops and starts effectively, plays off hesitations nicely, and with the ability to explode by defenders. Dezmond uses crossovers, between the legs dribbles, stays low and has the ability to stop on a dime for a very impressive and smooth pull up jumper. He’s got very good speed and is a strong and crafty finisher.
Defensively he pressures the ball nicely showing quick hands and very good lateral foot speed. Anticipates well and gets out into passing lanes. Really tough and competitive with athleticism and strength showing tons of upside. Definitely one to keep an eye on going forward.