After an embarrassing 106-79 loss at SMU, Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway had this to say about his team’s effort: “It’s just too embarrassing to play a game like we did yesterday.” He said. “It was a lack of effort. And that can’t happen. That’s unacceptable,”
One strategy to implore his players to “buy in” is to recruit local talent. When guys play in their hometown, it’s about more than the next NIL check, it’s about pride. Something Memphians don’t lack. Here is my list of local high school talent the Tigers should heavily pursue:
Note: Talent in the city moves around so often. I’m not sure where these guys are all heading to school in the 2024 season, so I opted to list where they played for the 2023 season.
Top Prospects
Fred Smith Jr., Forward, Briarcrest Christian School, Class of 2026: Smith, a six-foot-seven forward with a nearly seven-foot wingspan, has an incredible feel for the game. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time. He can hurt you down low with his excellent post-footwork and finishing. His jump shot is still developing but he has a very smooth stroke and a consistent midrange game. The most enticing part of his game, though, is his playmaking. Smith led Briarcrest to its first Division II-AA state championship since 2019. He currently holds a Memphis offer, but I’d like to see Smith made a priority for Penny’s 2026 class.
For more on Smith click here
Marcellous “Cello” Jackson, Guard/Wing, First Assembly Christian School, Class of 2026: The six foot four 200 pound guard led FACS, a top three team in the state (MaxPreps), to a Division II-A state title on the shoulders of his 19 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and a tough finish for the game-winner. He tells Recruits Zone on X that Memphis has shown heavy interest in him. Expect an offer soon as Jackson seems to be a can’t-miss prospect.
Justin Frison, Point Guard, Houston High School, Class of 2027: Although Frison finished his freshman year only a few months ago, he has already picked up a Division One offer from Alabama State. The way he controlled his Houston squad was very Jalen Brunson-esque – which was especially impressive given his age. The lefty playmaking point guard can get hot in a hurry from deep. It’s a bit of projection, but if he develops like I think he can he’ll be a talent Penny would be lucky to draw in.
Other’s To Look For
- Antonio McGaughey, Class of 2027, First Assembly Christian School – A lengthy 6 foot 7 seven wing with four total division one offers – one from Wichita State.
- Keeper Jackson, Class of 2026, Christian Brothers High School – The 6 foot 8+ wing from Christian Brothers already has a high major offer from Georgia Tech.
- David Abram, Class of 2028, Memphis Home Education Association – Abram is a 6 foot 8 forward with unlimited potential. He hasn’t played a minute of varsity basketball yet, but his combo of size and touch at all three levels is too rare not to translate.
- Braylon Williams & DJ Okoth, Class of 2028, Elmore Park Middle School – Williams and Okoth led Elmore Park to a 65-0 record over the past two seasons. Enough to garner copious amounts of national attention.
