OTR Hoops: Alabama Breakout Players Part II – February 7, 2024
This is the second installment of weekly recap of impactful players at each level of basketball, 1A though 7A, in the hoops hotbed of Alabama. Every week a player from each classification will be highlighted based on his performance throughout the 2023-2024 season.
By: David Hinds
1A- Javen Poindexter – 6’3 – SG – Red Level – 2024
Javen is one of the most gifted scorers the state has seen in quite a while. The freak athlete has finished his senior season averaging 38.2 points per game. That ranks third in the nation and has achieved it with amazing efficiency. The scoring guard faces a constant barrage of double and triple teams, but no one has found an answer so far. Javen recently put up 73 points in a single game, highlighting his ability to get hot and score in a hurry. College coaches are beginning to take notice as Javen has had as big of a breakout year as anyone in the country.
2A- Skylar Townsend – 6’4 – SG – Tanner – 2024
Townsend is a lanky off-ball guard who is at his best working downhill. He has a unique combination of an explosive burst with a deceptive smoothness to his game. This allows him to reach any spot he wants on the court. Unfortunately for defenders, that usually happens to be at the rim where he frequently finishes above and through defenders. The two-sport athlete may end up playing football in college but don’t sleep on his ability on the hardwood either.
3A- Clay Scofield – 6’5 – SG – Cottage Hill – 2024
Many wondered how Scofield would transition to Cottage Hill after putting up one of the most impressive junior seasons in the state at a small private school. It is safe to say that he put those questions to rest quickly. Putting up a more than respectable 20ppg and 7rpg has led to multiple college offers for Clay, who recently ended his recruitment with a commitment to Coastal Alabama.
4A- Eric Hines – 6’4 – PF – American Christian Academy – 2025
One of the breakout teams of the season has been American Christian Academy. They are led in scoring by Davis Dare but the glue that holds the team together is Hines. He is averaging a double-double on the year. The three-sport athlete has a college-ready frame and bounce for days. Although slightly undersized in height, he makes up for it with physical strength and the elevate quickly. His second jump is as impressive as it gets. Hines does all the dirty work needed to have a successful program such as rebound, block shots, and battle inside with opposing bigs.
5A- Johnathan Williams – 6’6 – PF – Brewbaker Tech – 2024 (Pictured at Top)
In an age of forwards that are gravitating towards the perimeter, Williams is a throwback to the traditional back to the basket big man. Sporting a thick frame with the ability to displace defenders, he thrives within 5 feet of the basket. Possessing a deep bag of post moves the senior is comfortable finishing over either shoulder. Williams can overpower undermatched defenders with his will and strength.
6A- Clyde Walters – 6’6 – SG – Pinson Valley – 2026
Every time I watch Walters play, I leave more impressed than I was before. The guard possesses great size for the position with a plus wingspan. Clyde has a well-rounded game and can make an impact across the board. He is a surefire high-major prospect, and he took a leadership role at an early stage in his career. He will be a Mr. Basketball candidate for the next couple of years. He produces at a high level and puts up eye-popping stats. Walters will continue to gain experience as the top dog in Pinson Valley’s offense.
7A- Desmond Williams – 6’2 – PG – Baker – 2025
Williams fits the mold of the modern-day scoring guard. Lightning quick with a tight and deceptive handle, he gets paint touches at will. He has a deep bag of off-balance floaters and crafty finishes around the basket. Williams also shows range on his jumper with the unique ability to create space and get his shot off over any defender. Transferring in as a replacement to Labaron Philon is no easy task but Williams answered the call. His production has allowed Baker to roll without missing a beat.
