Looking at the High School game there are many young players that have potential to one day make it to the NBA. As players now have more control of their future by selecting which path they will like to embark on. The traditional route of going to college hasn’t been the same for all prospects as some decide to go to the G-League or overseas has really changed the game for future generations. The NBA is even discussing the idea of allowing prospects to enter the draft after highschool. With that being said Anthony Forrester takes a look at 10 prospects in the highschool game that have potential to succeed in the NBA one day.
Emoni Bates, Forward Class of 2022 6’8” 200lb – Emoni Bates is a once in a generation talent. The young forward out of Michigan has already drawn comparisons to Kevin Durant. Emoni has a versatile skill set with his ability to score in a variety of ways on the court. Emoni can create his own offense by getting to the rim at will as well as shooting the ball from midrange and the three. Emoni has shown flashes of developing into a solid defender with the toughness he brings to the court. Once Emoni graduates from highschool and eligible for the NBA draft he will be considered for #1 pick.
Amari Bailey, Guard Class of 2022
6’5” 190lb – Amari Bailey has turned heads at Sierra Canyon and not just for being Bronny James teammate. Amari is a prospect with elite playmaking ability especially off ball screens and in transition. In the half court set Amari can finish at the rim in a variety of ways and plays above the rim at times. His athleticism, quickness, and size makes him a very intriguing prospect in his class. Amari has a nice shooting stroke but he is not an elite shooter yet but with Amari work ethic that is something he will continue to develop as the years go on. Amari style of play fits the NBA game so he is a prospect that is destined for the league.
DJ Wagner, Guard Class of 2023
6’3” 165lb – DJ is a shifty guard out of New Jersey. The young point guard has displayed his ability to be a floor general for a top ranked Camden highschool team. DJ has quickness to attack the rim off the dribble and off ball screens. DJ showed his ability to create his own offense as well as creating for others. DJ has a very high basketball IQ for a young guard and that will help him as he continues to grow as a player.
Emanuel Sharp, Guard Class of 2022 6’4” 200lb – Emanuel is a scoring machine. Emanuel can create his own offense whenever he wants. He has an elite shooting stroke that makes him a 3 level scorer. Emanuel shows toughness when fishing in the paint and shows a will not to be stopped with the ball in his hands. Emanuel is a terrific scorer and that is something that is going to help him as he gets to the next level.
John Paul Mobley Jr., Guard Class of 2024 5’8” 130lb – John is a guard that shows a solid skill set for his age. John has nice handles that allow him to create his own offense in the lane. John keeps the defense on their heels with his ability to hit the deep three pointer. John has shown flashes of elite playmaking ability. Will see how John’s body fills out as he continues to develop in his highschool career.
Mikey Williams, Guard Class of 2023 6’2” 175lb – Mikey Willimas has caught a big following from playing travel ball with Bronny James but the young guard has made a name for himself. The combo guard brings energy to his team with his athleticism and explosiveness on the court. Mikey has good size and length at the guard spot but will need to fill out his frame as he continues to try and reach the next level. Mikey is a three level scorer with his ability to get to the rim, stop and pop from mid range, and hit the three pointer. Mikey has a nice frame and strength to be a solid defender. Mikey has all the tools that make him a special talent.
Elijah Fisher, Guard Class of 2023
6’6” 195lb – Elijah has elite athleticism that allows him to jump out the gym. Elijah looks like a man among boys in the highschool game. With his ability to play on and off the ball makes him a versatile player that can affect the team in a variety of ways. Elijah has a high IQ that helps him with his playmaking ability and has shown flashes of great passing ability. Elijah’s finishing ability is unique and makes him a very intriguing prospect. Elijah is a high level scorer and looks like it will continue to translate as he progresses to the next level.
Dior Johnson, Guard Class of 2022
6’3” 180lb – Dior has been a special prospect over the years. Being an elite floor general and ball handler has separated him from many in his class. Dior court vision is second to none and that compliments his elite passing to make him a unique lead guard. His handles are a big part of his game as it allows him to get to the paint when he wants to. Dior is unstoppable in one on one situations which make him a nightmare for defenders. Dior continues to show why he is one of the best guard prospects in the country.
Chris Livingston, Forward Class of 2022 6’6” 200lb – Chris is an athletic forward that finishes at a high level in the paint whether it be above the rim or his unique layup package. One of the biggest perks in Chris’ game is his ability to be effective in the open court which he is almost impossible to stop. Chris is developing his body, especially his frame to get ready for the next level. He has a nice frame to go along with his speed which is key for him. Chris’ strength allows him to finish through contact which shows his toughness on offense as well as on the glass when it comes to rebounding.
Omaha Biliew, Forward Class of 2022 6’7” 200lb – Omaha is a prospect that has a high ceiling. He has a nice frame for his position with being a big and versatile forward. Omaha is a modern day NBA forward with his ball handling ability and his ability to stretch the floor and hit the outside jumper. He is a mobile forward that can get back on both sides of the floor. He is a very athletic prospect that is a force at the rim. Omaha has the ability to be a special prospect if he continues to develop his game to where most believe he can get it to.
