At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, hundreds of players from the Carolinas 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 Jalen Burnett of Northwestern.
We’ve watched Burnett closely over the years, including at our most recent SC Top 80, where we stated, “Next, we look at a player that always seems to make a lasting impression with his nonstop motor and harassing defensive qualities, Jalen Burnett. He’s a strong, fluid, high-motor guard prospect with great size and overall understanding of how to impact the game without requiring the ball in his hands. Burnett is a capable, fairly well-rounded offensive player with the ability to pass, handle, and score in a variety of ways. However, his value as a defender, rebounder, and overall hustle player simply cannot be overstated. Burnett’s unselfish, hard-nosed mentality directly correlates to winning in seemingly every setting. He’s skilled and adaptable enough to operate from various positions on either side of the ball. Next in his development process is working to become a craftier ball-handler, as it would make him even tougher for opponents to contain. Coach Paul on Burnett: “Jalen is an extremely talented player with great upside. Defends multiple positions and has a knack of getting his hands on the ball. Shoots the corner three well but is also a good penetrator.” Burnett did a lot of things well and should be a target for various programs over the course of his upcoming senior season.”
It’s becoming increasingly difficult to try and make sense of Burnett’s recruitment, especially as a strong, physical, high-motor wing with excellent size and defensive prowess. We’ve already seen him shoot the ball at a very respectable clip from beyond the arc. Add that to everything he provides as a tough, rugged player who is willing to make hustle plays and do the little things, and he seems like the perfect type of complementary piece for the next level. Burnett displays nice feel, sharp instincts, and the understanding of how to outwork opponents on both ends of the floor. He’s a quality finisher, useful passer, and exceptional defensive cog with the ability to force turnovers in bunches. Burnett is going to be a great piece wherever he ends up, so it’ll be interesting to watch his recruitment continue to unfold.