Sondheimer: Freshmen making a big impact in Southland basketball

Rising Stars: The Freshman Basketball Elite of California

The world of high school basketball is a competitive arena where talent shines, especially among freshmen eager to make their mark. One such promising point guard is Phillip Reed Jr. of Palisades. He entered high school ready to make a significant impact, stepping into games against varsity players who are both physically stronger and more experienced. “I wanted to jump into the water head first,” Reed shares, emphasizing his mental toughness and determination. As the season unfolds, he has successfully navigated the initial challenges, displaying potential that blooms with each game. With an average of 16 points and 10 rebounds, he represents a fresh wave of talent among California’s freshman basketball players.

In high-pressure situations, Reed remains grounded. “Pressure is a privilege. That’s how I look at it,” he explains. His journey has been shaped by years of preparation, beginning at the tender age of four. Hailing from Compton, Reed has taken the unconventional route of enrolling in online classes to attend Palisades, allowing him more time to refine his skills. Working out with his father, a former high school football player, further enhances his athletic abilities. His mother’s influence as an athlete at West Virginia Tech adds to his motivation. With a keen understanding of the game, Reed’s basketball IQ is his secret weapon against stronger opponents. "Everybody is pretty much stronger than me, so it was using my IQ," he admits.

The Southland is brimming with promising freshman guards, forming a competitive ecosystem where talent flourishes. Reed highlights the camaraderie among his peers stating, “Everybody in this freshman class is pushing each other to be better.” This spirit of healthy competition is evident in the accomplishments of other standout freshmen, such as Will Conroy Jr. from Village Christian. Averaging 27 points and showcasing a career high of 41, Conroy’s composure under pressure is noteworthy. As the son of a USC assistant coach, he benefits from strong mentorship—an advantage that has helped him deliver crucial victories early in the season.

Quali Giran of Long Beach Millikan is another freshman making waves in the basketball scene. From his very first game, he has proven himself ready to contribute, boasting an impressive average of 24 points. His ability to perform under pressure sets a high standard for his peers. Additionally, players like Zach Arnold from San Gabriel Academy have stood out by making significant contributions against tough opponents, including helping his team secure a victory over highly-ranked Redondo Union. The depth of talent among these freshmen reinforces the excitement surrounding this season of high school basketball.

Not to be overlooked, Tariq Johnson from Servite has quickly risen to a leadership role on his team. Without hesitation, the coaches entrusted him with ball-handling duties, and he meets the challenge with an average of 17 points. Meanwhile, Darrellreon Morris from St. Pius X-St. Matthias displays impressive maturity, helping to create opportunities for star guard Kayleb Kearse with his impressive passing skills. The skill set of these young athletes complements their competitive spirits, revealing a bright future for high school basketball in California.

As the season progresses, it’s clear that these freshmen are not just playing a supporting role; they are reshaping the landscape of high school basketball. Braylon Sherwood from Chaminade, averaging 13 points, has contributed to his team’s remarkable record of 18 wins in the first 19 games. Travis Walton Jr. of Eastvale Roosevelt, although coming off the bench, has demonstrated flashes of brilliance and a work ethic that promises future success. His connection to basketball runs deep, as the son of a former Michigan State player. Lastly, JoJo Mariless from Damien is making an impact as a starter for his team, displaying a blend of sharpshooting and unselfish playmaking skills.

In conclusion, California’s high school basketball scene is thriving, thanks to the influx of talented freshmen like Phillip Reed Jr. and his contemporaries. Their determination and skill not only enrich their teams but also elevate the standard of play across the state. As these young athletes prepare for the challenges ahead, they embody the spirit of resilience and teamwork, promising an exciting and competitive future for high school basketball.