Eric Hampford:
Future150 GM / Senior National Analyst. Covering high and middle school basketball.
Pearland, TX (Future150) -- One of the breakout performers from our middle school camp series in 2013 was Houston's Jalen Preston. After a dominating performance at "The Gym" in August, he checked in as the #2 overall prospect in the camp, and was selected to the Top 20 All-Star Game.
The 6-foot-2, 185-pound eighth grader used his explosive athleticism and muscular frame to cause problems for other campers all weekend long. When he wasn't finishing transition plays with big dunks and acrobatic lay-ins, he was creating off-the-dribble and using a quick first step to attack the rim.
While he was an unknown prospect entering the camp, that all changed after we discovered the hidden gem in Houston. Now, the Nolan Ryan Middle School (TX) guard is known as one of the most promising prospects in the area, which is very impressive considering the level of talent.
This AAU season, he will be playing for T.J. Ford Elite, sponsored by the former NBA player and University of Texas star. Not only will he be playing with one of the more recognizable programs in the country, but it comes with additional benefits.
"I've been working with T.J. Ford to improve my skill set along with my shooting," he told Future150.
Ford had some excellent things to say about Jalen when Future150 spoke with him.
"The strongest part of his game right now is his athleticism and his aggressiveness. He is very good at attacking the basket, and he finishes at a high rate. It's very unique for a kid to be as athletic as he is at his age," he said.
However, it's going to be very important for Preston to improve, as he will be playing 16U ball this AAU season.
"Right now, we are trying to work on his fundamentals. Trying to get him ready to go against strong competition, kids who are going to be older than he is."
Along with hard work, excellent bloodlines have also played a part in Jalen's development. His dad Derick and mother Shayla were both stars at Sam Houston State, with both parents being explosive scorers in their time at the school.
This season, Jalen is averaging 19.1 points, 13.2 rebounds, 7.2 steals and 7.0 assists per contest. The gaudy numbers show just how rapidly he has been improving since camp, one which he enjoyed thoroughly.
"My Future150 Camp experience was really great. I was able to play against some of the best players in the state and get exposure at the same time."
Comments:
I am a big fan of Jalen Preston I went to school with his dad at willow ridge H.S watching young Jalen is like watching his dad the boy is a natural born killer if you havnt seen him come out to Tj Ford camp and you will see for yourself
Great job Jalen, keep working hard. The best is yet to come!!!
Great job nephew!
Jalen is a unique athlete. He totally dominates the competition and makes it look easy. I had the pleasure of watching his dad dominate in high school and college(watched his mother in college also). Continue to work hard Jalen!!
Most athletic 8th grade player I have ever coached or seen for that matter. Jalen’s potential is through the roof and he works extremely hard everyday. Cant wait to follow his future career.
Very explosive athlete. I really enjoy watching him play football and basketball. I know he will continue to excel and I look forward to watching him play at the next level.
Great recognition J! Keep God first in all you do and the rest is yet to come. Anyone that has seen and or been around you knows the potential at the highest level is evident.
Had the pleasure of watching Jalen for years… very high motor and unreal athlete. Very common for him to take over a game. You’ll wanna get out of his way if he’s headed to the basket with a head of steam…
Way to Lil cuz, I’m just glad that you’re doing something real positive with your life. Whatever you do, keep working hard at your goals and it will pay off. And besides, you get a chance to pick up where your pops dropped off and become a great like he was. You are the future, keep up the good work.
Love You,
Fam.
Grandmothers brag on their grand kids. Thank you Jalen for doing the right thing and making my friend Sylvia proud. Keep in mind its not how great an athlete you are but how you use your gifts
Way to go Son. Continue to work hard in whatever you do. Dad is proud of you & I love you.
Great job dude! You know I’ve always been a fan. Keep working hard and enjoy the ride. Your future is looking great for you!
Coach B.
I’ve seen him play when he was in the 7th grade and I’ve never seen anything like it. I’m looking forward to continue to watch and following his career. He stay humble and there’s a bright future ahead of him…..#Phenom!
Had the opportunity to watch this kid play recently and I was completely blown away by his skill level at such a young age. Completely dominated the competition and his upside is limitless! #keepgoingHARDyoungsta!
I’ve known the Prestons for a long time. Great family! Keep working hard. I love your intensity Jalen!
My team played against this young man in the Bronze Championship at the GMI INVITATIONAL this past summer. I have to say he’s one the best players we faced and I couldn’t believe he was only a 7th grader at the time. He has a good future ahead of him,I loved the way he got everybody involved and attacked the basket relentlessly. The other thing I liked was his attitude,keep staying positive that will take you along way. Congrats on the beginning of many accolades you will be honored with.
Coach Lawrence Pender
Texas Future