Session III in Dallas was full of talented guard play. Guards, especially lead guards, typically are the engine of a team. Facilitating, leading, directing, anticipating and protecting are all important skills a dependable lead guard should display as a frequent ball handler and play-caller. Other guards may be more scoring-oriented, play more off the ball and utilize their scoring prowess if it suits the team better. Either way, a confident, reliable backcourt is vital for a well-coordinated team.
Here are some thoughts on a few guards I was able to see display some of these skills this weekend:
Armani Watson – EAD Mississippi NXT | ‘24 | 6’0 PG
Watson performed well all-around throughout the games I saw over the weekend. As EAD’s primary ball handler, he did solid at breaking pressure at half court and overcoming double teams, but there were times where he would turn the ball over. After that, he handled the ball fluidly and was adept at weaving through defenders while keeping his dribble on the way to the rim.
Elusive, advanced finishing package despite not holding a lot of muscle, created steady ball pressure and forced many turnovers in the passing lanes. His facilitation skills were also useful finding his way to the rim and dishing it after looking off the defender.
KJ Thomas – BYC Elite NXT | ‘24 | 6’0 PG
Thomas is always an exciting guard to watch in our events, and it wasn’t any different this weekend. Struggled a bit versus a very talented Max Levels PRO16 team, but he still performed like his usual self in the other games I was able to see.
Impressive shot creator, outstanding 3PT shooter from range and can put a pass right where it needs to be. Slender frame, not extremely physical but he will light you up on all three levels of the floor as a playmaker for both himself and others. Tough scorer and will take it to the cup and float it over and lay it around you. Very crafty and shifty handle, such a tough player to stop as a defender.
Khayri Dunn – Champion’s Chance (GA) | ‘24 | 6’1 PG
Dunn is another crafty guard to keep an eye on for Champion’s Chance. Effortful defender, shifty handler and very talented finisher at the rim. Also a very unselfish playmaker. But I personally loved his craft as a ball handler and ability to sell his fakes to get past or score past defenders. A ball handler who understands foot positioning and shifting of body weight and can do it well is a nightmare to guard and create pressure.
Very nice, intelligent kid, impactful playmaker and finisher, high-motored defender from Tucker HS with a 3.7 GPA in the Class of 2024.
Tate Darner – 1Family PRO16 | ‘25 | 5’9 PG
Darner was a proficient facilitator with a good-looking shot from 3PT range throughout the game I saw on Sunday in Dallas. High IQ, lacks height and size but makes up for it with his shooting ability, as well as his communication between teammates and solid court vision and awareness. Confident, unafraid to let the 3PT fly and complements his long, high-flying teammates well.
TJ Burch – Max Levels Elite PRO16 | ‘24 | 6’0 PG
Burch was an electric, competitive guard for Max Levels throughout the weekend. Continually challenging his matchups and winning the majority of them. Lockdown on-ball defender and on the point of attack, quick and crafty handle with the ability to break down or speed past defenders to the rim. Huge competitive edge and gets into the heads of his matchups. Very fun guard to watch against elite competition.
Currently has a handful of Division 1 offers before the first live period.
Tyran Mason – Max Levels Elite PRO16 | ‘24 | 6’4 SG
Mason was a scoring threat from every level throughout the weekend for Max Levels. Long, fluid shooter off the dribble with a high release point and was a great perimeter defender. Excels in transition, extending around or over defenders to score. Effortful rebounder as a guard along with his length and size, and is also effective at getting downhill with his handle. He gives it his all and constantly has a high motor, very intriguing 6-foot-4 guard from Dallas.
