Part I: Jamel Reynolds and Marcus Hopkins stand out at “The Breakdown Showcase”

October 4, 2017

TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Prep was the host facility for the Bay Area Hoops LLC / Big County Preps LLC event “The Breakdown Showcase”. This event is the best exposure event for High School and Middle School in the Tampa Bay area. Even though the location was different, the results of this stamped event stayed the same. BKD has provided a platform for 80 prospects for HS and 80 for MS. With all levels of talent coming to show their skills in front of National and State Scouts, we will recap Part 1 of 3 which was the creme of the crop.

2020 6’10” C Jamel Reynolds was the most intriguing prospect throughout the event. Reynolds is a player we occasionally get to watch of his size and skill run the floor, play perimeter defense, finish around the rim effectively and be a dominant force on the floor. The 230 lb Reynolds holds no offers at this point, but that will change soon for the Lakewood HS standout. With every viewing, we have noticed Reynolds improving rapidly. His strong rebounding skills and the full advantage he takes of his size in the post is impressive. We notice his capabilities to face the basket and hit 10-15 footers and show in the post for pin downs on smaller defenders. There were multiple plays where Reynolds was forced to defend perimeter guards on switches and didn’t look uncomfortable like most post players doing it. He’s confident in his game but humble at the same time. We really like his growth and hopefully he will become a name to remember and a top prospect to watch.

2021 6’5″ SG Jahsean Corbett in my opinion was the player with the most upside. After watching him at the CP3 event this past summer, the rising talent Corbett can be dangerous in many ways especially off the ball. He displays a very high IQ for a player with his size and shows he can score in bunches at any giving time. Expanding his skills under Coach Bakari Smith and the DC Blue Devils(FL), we are seeing a player who’s wants to be consider the best and continues to improve. Extending the floor with his shooting can improve and managing the game at times can get better. However, Corbett as the potential to be a very good D1 prospect.

2018 6’9″ F Marcus Hopkins with offers from San Jose State and Alabama A&M, Hopkins shows why his a sought out big from Oldsmar Christian under Coach John Bianchi. At 6’10”, Hopkins moves really well up the floor plus explodes near the baskets. After having a brief conversation with him prior to his appearance on the floor, i noticed his disciplined demeanor. The tools are there for Hopkins and the ability to improve his game is also visible. The knack to keep the ball high and finish strong is consistent for Hopkins but would love to see him in more pick and roll options. He’s an reliable shot blocker and contributes defensive weak side with help at all times.

2020 6’6″ F Jakob Hester in all regards may have been the most effective player in the gym. Hester just made plays on both sides, he was “Johnny on the Spot” every time i watched him. He’s not the most athletic player or high energy guy but he impacts games. Coming out of Anclote HS in Pasco County which is a school that quietly puts out talents players and Hester was definitely one of those eye catching gems. When underestimated, Hester can find openings in the offense where he’s able to knock perimeter shots down and work the offensive glass for easy buckets. He’s not that good when handling the ball in the perimeter but shows hustle, good movement and stability on the floor.