In-State Talent at U-M College Practice Camp

The University of Michigan played host to their annual College Practice Camp.

As it has been since its inception upon coach John Beilein’s arrival, Michigan’s College Practice Camp was once again a prime venue to observe some of the state’s top prospects in both drill and game conditions. Here were notable performer’s from Saturday’s upperclassman session.

Dylan Alderson  6-4  Jr  Clarkston: Apparently he’s a quick learner. After going end-to-end only to be blocked by another of the state’s top 10 2017 prospects, Jamal Cain, on his next chance Alderson put the ball down with two hands.  He’s pushing 6-5 and it’s that frame and athleticism plus his comfort with the ball that make Alderson such an attractive prospect. He can shoot it from 20 or mid-range. Not a true wing or pure point guard, but there are good things to work with for the school that figures out what to do with him.

Austin Davis  6-10  Sr  Onsted: Michigan’s posts of the future were putting in some of their first amongst many hours at Crisler and the player development center, as Davis was joined at camp by Ohio 7-footer Jon Teske. A rare in-state recruit for the Wolverines, Davis was his typical hard-working, productive post presence. He got off the floor and finished quickly, if not above the rim, and moved well defending and recovering from ball screens.

Jaron Faulds  6-9  Jr  Holt: The most striking difference between Davis, with the Big Ten offer, and Faulds a year younger and playing for one, is how much more filled out is the U-M commit. Faulds didn’t seem to notice though as he willingly mixed it up. He’s ahead of the curve in that he rebounds outside his area and can score with either hand in the lane — the hook shot drills were his crowning camp moment. A top 10 2017 prospect and mid-major lock, if Faulds can extend his shooting perimeter and is knocking down 20 footers at this time next year, he’ll have offers beyond that.

Anthony Johnson  6-5  Jr  Detroit Southeastern: He arrived late due to a team obligation, but left an impact in the afternoon session. Johnson flashed talent on dunks that drew reactions as if it were a national prospect with a U-M offer. Looked like the next Terrell Riggs out of Detroit. AJ was especially good defensively, vocal and aggressive, able to check guards and forwards. Detroit Cornerstone’s 6-6 junior Jamal Cain was also at U-M. If he’s a top 10 prospect in 2017 — and he is — then Johnson is top five.

Justin Turner  6-3  Sr  Detroit Renaissance: Outstanding when running the wings to finish in transition, stepping into his three-point shot or passing on the break. Turner’s efficiency slipped when the game went into halfcourt situations as he forced shots and passed only as a last resort. Good MAC or Horizon recruit.