Now that the high school season is coming to a close, more and more college-level players are searching for landing spots at the next level. Plenty of guys have committed, but the dearth of offers being doled out to high school kids is pretty apparent. Consider Richmond, for example. Everyone is talking about Paul McNeil’s memorable season (rightfully so) and the success they’ve enjoyed as a team, yet their other three seniors, Javian Drake, Jamarion Wall, and Braylon Barfield are each still deserving of more attention. Let’s take a closer look at these specific three…
5’10 Javian Drake
Although their focal point is putting up video game-like numbers, Drake is enjoying impressive production in his own regard. This season, he’s averaging 14.7 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 4.9 APG, and 2.6 SPG. The scoring will stand out to most, but his defense, playmaking, and rebounding (especially for a smaller guard) have each been critical to this group. Drake is a tough two-way floor general who looks to create for others through penetrating, forcing the defense to collapse, and making the appropriate read. He finishes well through contact for his size and can knock down jumpers as needed. Drake is also a pest at the point of attack defensively and plays the passing lanes well to force turnovers.
6’2 Jamarion Wall
In terms of efficiency, Wall is quietly among the most reliable scoring options on the roster. He’s currently averaging 13.8 PPG, 2.7 RPG, and 2.1 SPG with 45/38/72 shooting splits. Though Wall looks to seize most of his opportunities within the flow of the offensive structure, he has no issue generating clean looks for himself or others off the bounce. He’s comfortable attacking the basket and finishing with either hand, but also hits jumpers within a few dribbles and poses a quality threat in spot-up situations. Wall contains his assignment well and provides a steady presence defensively. His level of IQ and adaptability make him a valuable piece alongside any collection of teammates.
6’8 Braylon Barfield
Despite being the newest addition to this team, Barfield actually has the most action within his recruitment. He’s a long, wiry forward with a nice blend of size, skill, and athleticism. Right now, Barfield is posting per-game numbers 4.6 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.0 SPG, and 1.6 BPG. The scoring figure might not pop off the page, but it’s worth noting that he’s only taking an average of 4.5 shot attempts in each contest. What’s more intriguing is the fact that his combined average of blocks and steals ranks second on the team. Barfield has shown the ability to score in various other settings, so excelling within a smaller role and finding various ways to make an impact should certainly appeal to college coaches.
