Garrett Tucker:
Future150 Southeast Analyst. Covering high school basketball across the Southeast.
Birmingham, AL (Future150) -- After a productive sophomore season, Montgomery-St. Jude (Ala.) wing Tommy Burton has become one of the most talked about players in the Class of 2015 in the state.
Currently standing at 6-foot-8, Burton has great versatility for a big man. In fact, he plays more like a guard on the perimeter. He may have to become more post-oriented in the next few years, though. According to his doctor, the youngster isn’t finished growing yet.
“He thinks I could end up being 7-foot-2 when I’m finished growing,” he told Future150.com.
Along with his skill-set and game, the potential for him to continue to grow has coaches extremely interested. As of right now, Burton holds one offer, as the UAB Blazers extended him one earlier in the year.
“Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Indiana, and Mississippi State are all interested, too.”
While he has many different schools coming at him, Burton isn’t focused on recruiting. Instead, he plans to take his time with the recruiting process and work on his game.
“I’m just taking everything very slow right now,” he explained. “I haven’t taken any visits or anything like that. I’m just focused on competing during AAU.”
The sophomore will run with the Alabama Challenge this spring, alternating between the 16s and 17s. When it comes down to it, Burton is focused on improving as a player.
“I want to have fun this AAU season and play well. But mainly I just want to go out and compete and show others what I can do.”
St. Jude, led by Burton and other talented players, are just coming off a state championship run in Birmingham. Many wouldn’t realize the big man is a state champion, though.
“It feels great to have won the state championship, but I know I can’t dwell on it as a player. It’s an honor to win, but I have to stay focused as a player,” he said.
Despite being talented at his height, many basketball fans are unaware of Burton to this point. His broke down his game to Future150:
“I would say my strength is getting to the basket and finishing. When smaller players guard me, I can use my size, and when bigger players guard me, I can use my quickness.”
“I need to get stronger and work on my body control. But the main thing is getting stronger and smarter as a basketball player,” he noted.
Burton will be one of the most exciting players to watch in the state of Alabama in the next few years. With more state championships and scholarship offers heading his way, he is a must-watch in the Southeast.
Comments:
Good Job ! TJ
Just remember stay FOCUS
I’m proud of u little brother. I know I’m 1000 miles away but keep me I’m mind, body, and spirit. Keep ur mind focused on the big picture, development as a man, ur education, and ur game. All ur wants in life will come after that. Think about everthing we talked about on that rode trip. Love u Fo life bro.