Eric Hampford:
Future150 GM / Senior National Analyst. Covering high and middle school basketball.
Dallas, TX (Future150) -- On Saturday at the 2014 PrimeTime Nationals, it was several prospects from the state of Arkansas who stole the show. Bracket play began in the morning, and it brought out the best in a few of the players in attendance. Here is who caught the eye of Future150 staff:
LaQuawn Smith, 2016 PG, Arkansas Wings: The most high-volume scorer of the day was the Jacksonville (AR) star, who got baskets any way he wanted to. He was equally effective knocking down long jump shots and slashing to the rim for acrobatic finishes. He is also an excellent athlete who is fun to watch in transition.
Aaron Reddick, 2016 PF/C, Georgia Shock: The Georgia Shock bruised through the beginning of bracket play on Saturday afternoon, and the 6-foot-5 center played a big part. He was active around the rim, rebounded well, and finished plays when given the opportunity. We look forward to seeing more of him tomorrow.
Marquis Eaton, 2016 PG, Arkansas Kings: While the 6-foot-2 point guard wasn't scoring much on Saturday evening, he made big plays down the stretch to help his team to a last second win as they advanced in bracket play. He is a passionate guard who will do whatever it takes for his team to win.
Matt Horton, 2016 C, Arkansas Wings: Perhaps the most intriguing prospect of the day, the 6-foot-10 center has the potential to develop into a highly sought after low major big man. He runs the floor extremely well and is a very good shot-blocker. If his offense ever comes along, he could become a very good post player.
Adonis Fox, 2016 C, Wolfpack: After two days of evaluating the 6-foot-7 post, it is now clear that he is one of the best rim protectors that we have seen at PrimeTime Nationals, regardless of age division. Once he puts on some muscle and develops some moves around the low block, he should blossom as a prospect.
Tyler Williams, 2016 PF, Arkansas Kings: Williams has a motor that seemingly never quits and it was on display again during the first round of bracket play. He has a nose for the ball and is a great rebounder because of that. Williams also has good touch around the rim and is capable of finishing through contact thanks to his upper body strength.
Tabashi Thomas, 2016 SG, GA Shock: One of the main reasons the GA Shock rolled in their first round of bracket play on Saturday afternoon was the relentlessness of Thomas. He brought the ball up the floor and pushed the tempo, often looking to attack the rim. From end to end he has good speed and certainly uses it well.
Reece Anderson, 2016 SG, GA Shock: Anderson was aggressive in attacking the rim off the dribble and was all over the floor on the defensive end. He has great length and is seemingly around the ball making plays at all times. Once he develops his jump shot a little more he will be a handful to account for on the floor.
Carter Brown, 2016 CG, Texas Hoosiers: Brown is a bit of a tweener at this point but did a good job of getting his teammates involved early and often. He made good use of his ability to throw good outlet passes and helped his team to get out on the break. He has a lot of physical tools and it will be interesting to see how he continues to develop.
Demarian Johnson, 2016 CG, Arkansas Kings: Johnson put his team on his back in the final two minutes, creating shots for his teammates and getting to rim where he drew fouls and ultimately won the game. He is a strong bodied guard who looks to score but has good vision as well. It's also worth noting that he is one of the top rising juniors in his state for football.
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