Buckeyes Receive National Recognition at Lucas Camp

EJ Williams and L'Christian Smith Excel at Elite Camp

After attending John Lucas’ International Middle School Combine in Houston, Texas last weekend, two Ohio players were recognized nationally. EJ Williams (6’9 C Middletown) and L’Christian Smith (6’5 WF Dayton) were both positively featured in Clark Francis’ Hoop Scoop post event report and were ranked among the camp’s top players.  Smith was ranked 3^rd overall and was described as “the most versatile player in camp, as well as one of the best players we saw in the stations and drills” by Francis. Buckeye Prep attended the camp and observed Smith in both the skills and drills stations as well as actual games.  In both segments, Smith played hard and excelled.

Francis commented that Williams “has nice hands,” “a high basketball IQ,” and “off the charts potential.” Francis also noted that Williams is projected to reach 7’2 or 7’3 by the time he stops growing, and “has the heart and desire necessary to evolve into a very good player.” Williams was ranked 44^th overall. We watched Williams in his opening game and noted that  he did a solid job with finishing close to the basketball and out letting the ball in transition.

The fact that Williams and Smith were lauded by Francis, one of the leading scouts in the country, is significant, as the elite camp attracted 180 very talented 7^th & 8^th graders from across the country, many of whom will attend high major college programs in the future. Congratulations to both players for their standout performances and for representing the Buckeye State well!