Jaylen Richard put on an absolute offensive show and it is something that he has consistently done all season. To say Richard has taken the next step would be an understatement. But that should come as no surprise to anyone as he has continued to get better each season and now he his averaging 30 points per game this season.
Flash forward to last night’s game against Durham Riverside. Richard got his second foul half way through the first quarter, sat the entire first half. He entered half time with 2 points and his team was down. Naturally Richard started the second half and proceeded to finish the game with 26 points and the win. Yes, 24 second half points…but it was the way he scored those points that was so intriguing.
Hofstra was in the house, as was Catawba’s Head Coach to watch him. Both schools offered. Rightfully so, Richard was great. First let’s talk about his physical attributes. Richard stands 6’5” and carries a 6’10” or so wing span. He has the head to the rim type of athleticism and is quick laterally.
Now let’s get to how he scored, that is where Richard’s money will be made. He has a great pace on the ball, never in a rush and plays so efficiently in the half and full court. He was knock down with his mid-range pull up, going both left and right. He elevated high and had a soft release. He finished above the rim when the rotations were late, monster dunks, like elbow above the rim dunks. He finished 2-5 from beyond the arc, showed well off the catch getting his feet set and body right. It was a show.
Richard keeps getting better, each game. His senior year has the ability to possibly take off like Clyde Trapp did last season at Lower Richland High School in South Carolina. Trapp is now the first guard off the bench (as a freshman) for Top 20 ranked Clemson. George Mason, Delaware and St Peter’s called after last night’s game, expect more along the same to continue coming in, with offers soon to follow.
Watch this Video from Hoops HQ
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch'v=Ot8hoOfOP4g]