At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, over fifty players from South Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III or NAIA levels, and that number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we take a closer look at guys who are overlooked and underrated, and today's edition will highlight Jacquez Shuler of Gray Collegiate Academy and Team Wall Southeast.
Throughout the years, size has remained among the most important qualities in all levels of basketball because it simply cannot be taught. However, possessing size and being a useful basketball player don't necessarily always go hand-in-hand. In Shuler's case, he's already an obvious scholarship-level contributor that is just beginning to scratch the surface of his long-term abilities. Big, strong, and fairly mobile, Shuler doesn't require offensive touches to make an impact. He understands how to control the paint defensively, altering shots and securing rebounds, and looks to make the right decision on offense. Typically, his scoring is limited to transition, dunk attempts, and the occasional post-up (though he does display nice touch around the basket). Shuler maintains great defensive instincts and will always have a place on the court with his ability to block shots.
We've seen Shuler in various different settings, including last summer with Team Wall Southeast, where we stated: 'The big man was easily the most intriguing prospect on this squad, given his physical gifts and quality athleticism. He has a strong body with incredible length, which allows him to play tough and protect the rim at a solid rate. Shuler runs the floor with purpose and has a team-first approach on both sides of the floor. It'll be exciting to see how he develops on offense going forward, as he has the natural tools to become a very useful player.'
Though he would help a variety of Division I or Division II programs, it's somewhat difficult to try and understand Shuler's current recruitment. There are numerous college coaches in desperate need of size. He could be an immediate contributor for some and would be able to continue developing for others. There will always be a place for rebounding and rim-protection, and those are two of Shuler's most attractive qualities. Right now, he's narrowed his options down to Moravian Prep PG, Central Pointe PG, Atlantic Cape College, Bryant and Stratton College, Southeastern Illinois College, and Merced College. Should he choose the post-grad route, it seems very likely that Shuler will see a massive uptick in his recruitment.
