On the eve of their first game in USA vs Prime Prep (Friday at 5:30PM) Hoops Hype Canada breaks down the latest on some of their recruiting sweepstakes before they embark on a portion of their national schedule across America.

Orangeville Prep feature a roster of twelve talented kids that when it’s all said and done could all land with D1 scholarships. We look at some sweepstakes that are either sealed or picking up steam.

2016 7-footer Thon Maker

Not a single college program south of the border that wouldn’t jump through a flaming hoola-hoop to secure Thon Makers services. Due to his international status, pace to graduate and NBA rules in place, the possibility of entering the 2016 draft remains a possibility. Thon can become just another high school talent that lands at a major program or he can be a legendary pioneer becoming the first Canadian high school player to jump directly into the NBA draft. That said Maker holds scholarship offers from Kentucky, Duke, Kansas, Louisville, Arizona and just about every other major program in the country.

2016 6’5″ Jamal Murray

Jamal’s number one strength is his maturity. Kid is 17 going on 25 it seems. Murray is a lot more mature than a lot of the college players and some NBA players as well (JR Smith, Gerald Green, Dion Waiters). Murray sees the floor very well because of his height and is an excellent finisher because of it. This fierce competitor has all ready perfected the turn around fall-away jumper (Jordan’s trademark).  Early in his recruitment word was that he had intentions of playing college ball close to home. Michigan and Syracuse the obvious destinations. Orangemen are pessimistic about landing the Kitchener, ON native. Leaving Michigan (3 hours from Kitchener) and Oregon who’ve made strides in his sweepstakes recently, emerging as serious players.

 

2015 6’4″ Jalen Poyser (UNLV)

Jalen Poyser with CIA Bounce at the 2014 NIKE EYBL Peach Jam in July

Poyser’s ability to quickly create shots is magnified in the transition game. He oozes confidence that is almost mandatory to survive on the road to the NBA. With his NLI signed sealed and delivered expect Poyser to relish a victory lap in high school basketball playing along side Orangeville’s star power.

Poyser is a fairly unselfish player who is more than capable of making the extra pass. Even if he’s often asked to be the one creating and finishing shots for his team (particularly late in the shot clock), he’s a nice weapon to have in a half-court offense thanks to his solid court vision and good basketball IQ.

Catching up with Poyser after a recent victory versus St. Johns Kilmarnock he discussed his future at UNLV and a desire to play with fellow Canadian 2016 Justin Jackson Coach Rice in Vegas.

 

2015 6’5″ Jelani Mofford (UNCG Greensboro)

Mofford will be a treat for UNC Greensboro head coach Wes Miller. Standing 6’5 tall the Brampton, ON native is not only a top notch student but also a knock down shooter from the wing.

A willing defender and underrated rebounder on the Orangeville roster he has the potential to start at the three spot but with his scholarship already secure his work load may be limited.

Coach Larry Blunt spoke about Mofford’s history and commitment to UNCG.

 

2015 6’9″ Kyle Alexander 

Alexander has all the tools but does he have the tool box? He has all the intangibles to rebound and block at an Anthony Davis NBA level rate. Alexander boasts an astronomical wing span and his incredible length and ability to get off the floor multiple times in succession set him up perfectly as a natural shot-blocker on defense and as a target for lobs on offense. What truly separates Alexander from Anthony Davis though, is the intensity, emotion and passion with which he approaches the game.

Alexander’s recruiting is rumored to be a two way race between St. Bonaventure and Wake Forest. Orangeville Prep head coach Larry Blunt reiterates how scary the potential of this Milton, ON big man is.

 

2015 6’3″ Josiah Riley

Riley brings to the table ‘glue’ intangibles that would be a welcome addition to most college programs. Nicknamed “The Glove” Riley is a lock down defender and comfortable slasher on offense. Word circulating is that Riley is being highly courted by Liberty University and that New Mexico State and UNC Greensboro are keeping tabs on his situation entering the 2014-15 season.

 

2015 6’7″ Alonzo Walker

High energy on the ball defender at the wing that offers plenty of length for the three spot. Holds his ground well thanks to a strong, wide stance. He has a decent first step, and he uses long strides and good body control to get by defenders and to the rim. He doesn’t shy away from contact when he is in the lane and against Canadian competition demonstrated a strong above the rim game. New Mexico State are showing some genuine interest in Walker.

 

2014-15 A.I. Orangeville Prep Game Schedule – At A Glance