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Home > ajcsportstalk > Archives > 2008 > February > 21 > Entry
Which superstar will shine brightest on the next level?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Forget the lunar eclipse. If you want real star power, check out the boys state basketball tournament, which tips off Friday.
The brackets are stuffed with big-time Division I-A talent.
But who’s the best baller of them all? Who do you think has the brightest future in college and beyond? And are there any no-names with big-time potential?
Here are a few names to consider:
- Norcross’ Al-Farouq Aminu (Wake Forest)
- Dunwoody’s Chris Singleton (Florida State)
- Wesleyan’s Trey Thompkins (Georgia)
- Mundy Mill’s Dennis Harris (LSU)
- Rome’s Tony Woods (Wake Forest)
- Meadowcreek’s Teondre Williams (Oregon)
- Wesleyan’s Tanner Smith (Clemson)
- Westlake’s Ray Willis (Oklahoma)
- Dunwoody’s Delwan Graham (LSU)
- South Atlanta’s Derrick Favors (Uncommitted)
While we’re on the subject, check out this AJC.com video of the state’s top 10 dunkers and cast your vote who’s stuff has the most style.
Permalink | Comments (43) | Post your comment | Categories: High Schools



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Comments
By Mr. Miller Grove
February 21, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this
Great list, i think of all the names listed Mr. Favors will be the superstar. He not only has the attitude but all the skill. Good Luck MR. FAVORS.
By Prepaholic
February 21, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Did you leave one out? Tony Woods is listed twice (#5 and #9).
By Devil Lover
February 21, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
McDonald’s All American with the feature article on USAToday/High School,avg 24 pts and 11 rebound and leading his team to a 23-2 record with no losses in the state of GA, Norcross’ Al-Farouq Aminu.
By Unc
February 21, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
I think you left off one of the most hard working dominant players in the ATL and that is Delwan Graham. I think he has the attitude and mind set to excel at the next level when he attends LSU.
By Drew
February 21, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
What about Noel Johnson at FCHS? Ranked #30 in class of 2009 by rivals. Y’all are always leavin him out.
By black aka Mr. Jermaine
February 21, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Aminu will be great at WF and of course favors will be in the NBA in three years. The rest of the guys are good players. Hopefully, they won’t get caught up. Good luck to them all.
By SOUTH ATL "98"
February 21, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
FAVORS ALL DAY!!!!HE LOOK LIKE MONEY!
By SOUTH ATL "98"
February 21, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
FAVORS ALL DAY!!!!HE LOOK LIKE MONEY!
By SOUTH ATL "98"
February 21, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
FAVORS ALL DAY!!!!HE LOOK’S LIKE MONEY!
By SOUTH ATL "98"
February 21, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
FAVORS ALL DAY!!!!HE LOOK’S LIKE MONEY!
By SOUTH ATL "98"
February 21, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
FAVORS ALL DAY!!!!HE LOOK’S LIKE MONEY!
By Successful Coach
February 21, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
I am surprised ther is not a wheeler player on this list. Everyone is saying they are the best team in the state this year so why aren’t their players on this list?
By Big B
February 21, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Mfon Udofia from Miller Grove…Could be the top PG in the state next season, if not this season.
By Wildcat Fan
February 21, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
DeQuan Jones must be added to the list. going to Miami and can jump over anyone. period
By Dekalb County
February 21, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
what about the HIGH-FLYER at Columbia,, I’m not sure of his name but he’s a DIFFERNCE MAKER as well as a highlight reel. And watch for Manny at Tucker to step up big in the play-offs. Dat Tuck is probably the toughest #4 seed in the playoffs. And I agree about the lefty point guard from Miller Grove,,, he’s the truth !! Go region 6 !!! And represent !!!!!
By Scoutoftheyear
February 22, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
DERRICK FAVORS WILL SHINE BRIGHTEST ON THE NEXT LEVEL AND BEYOND…
I’D PUT AMINU 2ND.. I LIKE HIS GAME, BUT HIS TEAM IS FULL OF NAIA PLAYERS…
AND IF MCDONALDS ALL-AMERCIANS COULD BE JUNIORS.. DERRICK FVAORS WOULD BE ONE THIS YEAR..
STEVE WOJOKOWSKI EX PLAYER/DUKE SCOUT CAME TO A SOUTH ATLANTA GAME A FEW WEEKS AGO. HE TOLD ME PERSONALLY DERRICK FAVORS COULD START FOR DUKE RIGHT NOW. HE ALSO COMPARED HIM TO KEVIN GARNETT AND AMARE STOUDEMIRE.
By Scoutoftheyear
February 22, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this
GONNA BE HARD FOR MFON UDOFIA TO BE THE BEST POINT GUARD NEXT SEASON, WHEN TRAE GOLDEN IS ONLY A SOPHOMORE AND BETTER THAN UDOFIA THIS SEASON. HE’S ONLY GONNA GET BETTER… BESIDES HE’S NOT BETTER THAN PHIL TAYLOR FROM WHEELER WHO’S A SOPHOMORE ALSO.
By jk47
February 22, 2008 2:59 AM | Link to this
This is a great list full of future D1 stars. But I think because of the ability to play right away and skill set fitting the team, Thompkins, Aminu, and Willis have the best chance to excel at the next level. Pro chances really depend on taking advantage of the opportunity you are given. Favors really shouldn’t be on this list because he just a junior, but if were talking best player regardless of class, Favors would be at the top of this list, definitely. Top 10 prospects IMO/Georgia 1-10:1) Favors 2) Aminu 3) Thompkins 4) Cashmere Wright from Urban Christian in Savannah 5) Willis 6) Singleton 7)Lorenzo Brown from Centennial 8) Noel Johnson from Fayette Co. 9) Toby Veal from Johnson- Savannah 10) Trae Golden. Top That!
By Donald
February 22, 2008 5:43 AM | Link to this
Typical AJC. Before you guys actually post a top ten list for the state, why not have your staff go out and actually see the rest of the players in the state-besides metro Atlanta-play?
By dshep
February 22, 2008 6:17 AM | Link to this
Anytime you mention the top basketball in the state Mfon Udofia HAS to be in the conversation. He along with Favors are the top ranked Juniors in the State nationally. Favors is ranked # 1 and Udofia has been ranked between # 5 & # 9. Not only does he score, but he has led his team into the state playoffs as a FRESHMAN and a JUNIOR. He epitomes the phrase TEAM PLAYER. For those who think others are better ask the throngs of College Coaches who have been to see him who they would rather have. Mfon is undeniably the best Point Guard in the state, regardless of classification.
By nancy
February 22, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this
Andre Young @ Deerfield Windsor in Albany, GA is the best PG in the state. Signed by Clemson. Don’t you guys ever watch anybody else but Atlanta players play ball? Need to. The best players in GA are in southwest part of the state. how about Randolph-Clay and Dougherty?
By t a f
February 22, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
you guys show a lot of favor to the atl without going down south.deerfield,westover.dougherty are always good and so are their players.They dont get notice because they play team ball something the player you name do not.the top ten you name are all ball hogs.It has been proven time again that they never do good in college
By Live
February 22, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this
Jones from Wheeler should be ahead of a few of these players. The best athelete on a team loaded with future D1 prospects. He could average way more than he does.
By Metro coach
February 22, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this
Derrick Favors has a great future ahead. He’s got good footwork, a great attitude and soft touch around the basket. His coaches have really helped him develop. He reminds me alot of a young D.Howard…compare the tapes!
By ThreeTimeDevils
February 22, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this
Hey larry Hartstein, your State Basketball Tournament: Repeat performers article need a big corrected. You stated “Norcross lost its top national ranking after a 68-65 loss to Oak Hill Academy” which is totally incorrect. Unlike SouthAtlanta who has sunk like a rock, Norcross has continued to improve their national ranking. Currently National ranking are; USATOday no.10, Rise no.7, Hoopusa no. 5, Sports Illustrated no. 11.
By CO The Sports Writer
February 22, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
The list is accurate, but missing a few key names. Arguably the top point guard int he state, Mfon Udofia (Scout.com’s No. 9 point guard in the nation **), is a man amongst men. Averaging about 25 points, five assists and four steals per game, he will definately be out to make a statement in the postseason. (Favorable Bracket) Wheeler’s DeQuan Jones, in addition, should be on the list. He is a difference maker and the heart and soul of one of the top teams in AAAAA. A player who I like that get’s little to no ink is Tucker’s Manny Atkins. Very unselfish player, with a finesse and savvy game. Also caries a humble attitude, simular to favors. The lone starter from last seasn’s championship team, who sanked two key free throws to upset Columbia in the Finals, has the tools to carry Tucker all the way this season. Several stars will be born, while others will shine on centerstage for the next two week’s. Like T.O. would say, ‘Get your popcorn ready’
By Mitch-GA
February 22, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Please believe me if you’ll are talking real Point Guard position check out Grayson at Dunwoody he can match up against the best of the best So let’s not give out awards yet the only reason why he is not on” Blast” yet or have the press in his face all the time is Because he still got a while to go and he’s young, but humble he is very consistence in Scoring , Assisting, playing Defense and making his team Better I have watched him several times and there is a Buzz around this kid trust me. Several of these point guards mention are so selfish Always hogging the ball and not getting there team involve. Grayson can make team better not only on his skills but his demeanor and The ability to get the Job done, when he steps on the Court for him it’s about winning all the way.
By dmahone6365
February 22, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
Here are some of the top point guards in the state:
http://www.ajc.com/highschool/content/sports/highschool/stories/2008/02/20/hsplayers_0221.html
By CO The Sports Writer
February 22, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this
I concur, Mitch, Isaih Grayson earned his billing when he filled in the void for Pierre Jordan during the injury. Dunwoody has a pipeline of talented players. Regardless of what many naysayers or haters say, head coach Scott Bracco is one of the top coaches in the state and has a track record to prove it. Dunwoody is definately a team to watch down the stretch
By Paul
February 22, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
I feel the Andre Young’s and the Kelvin Martin are not in a big time news media area such as Atlanta, and are not surrounded but all that talent , so when you say the best in the state look at the whole state not just Atlanta because Georgia is more than just Atlanta.
By Mitch-GA
February 22, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
Co -sport writer” Grayson first name is spell Issiah and just to drop some knowledge he fills no void for no one, speaking of Mr Pierre Jordan Dunwoody so call point guard are you Serious, Grayson does not have to fill his void or shoes Pierre can’t match up. From what I have seen at the games Grayson out plays this Cat “too bad he Grayson is on the wrong team such a waste of Talent, but that’s another story dont want to waste my ink on nonsenses. I agree Dunwwody have a Chance but Grayson is the fans favorite.
By UNC TEXAS
February 22, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this
You everyone is going to have a say on their player of choice. What really needs to happen is let’s look at the stats over the past two years. You have certain players getting recognition soley on their height. Let’s take Delwan Graham for instance. He is going to get all your hard grinding points in the paint, he will jump out the gym, has a pretty nice left handed jumper and is the heart and soul of the Dunwoody team. They are good everyone is right about that, but lets look at the stats this year, let’s look at the AAU season he had with the Celtics and he still doesn’t get the recognition he deserves. NOT HATING!!!, but Chris Singleton is a nice player, but he had to come to Dunwoody to get a chance to win a state title and now they have his profile posted everywhere. I’m just saying look at the stats and you compare. Just ask coach Braco…We will see who excels at the next level. I thought I would get my journalism skills on to show some love for the unforgotten….Keep doing what you do Delwan and just show em…….Unc, TEXAS
By iknotalent
February 22, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
mfon udofia frm miller grove will be the best PG in the state next year if he isn’t already
By iknotalent
February 22, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
mfon udofia frm miller grove will be the best PG in the state next year if he isn’t already
By chris
February 22, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
I would like for the AJC to show more energy towards female sports. You guys have in there which guys will make a impact some of us would like to know which females will make an impact. Thank You. A fan of female basketball……
By chris
February 22, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
Don’t forget about the busy Point Guard from Jonesboro Antoino Bell!!!!!
By chris
February 23, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
DOWN GOES FAVORS!!!! DOWN GOES FAVORS!!!
By reasonable mind
February 23, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this
I can’t believe you continue to ignore the best big man in the state, Ralph Sampson. He plays on a team that would not be a .500 ball club, but are in second round of state. He impacts the game more than any player you have listed.There are few if any big men in country that have his versatility. He is a great defender, averaging seven blocks per game, good passer and ball handler, and can shoot. Georgia should be ashamed.
By l
February 23, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
Everybody seems to have forgotten the whole team at Jonesboro High. They are seem to be the underdog, put come out on top with wins. And, please remember a person may be good, but he/she CANNOT win games ALONE, there has to be a TEAM somewhere on the floor. One man can’t do the job alone.
By banks
February 23, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
Mitch you hit the nail on the head. Grayson is the best point guard period. He’s on the wrong team, but like you said that’s another story.
By Kenneth Palmer
February 24, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
Don’t forget about Delwan Graham. The hardest worker in on a basketball floor.
By A fan of
February 25, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
DONT SLEEP ON: Adrien Coleman (Stephenson) Kenny Hall (Redan) Glen Rice Jr.(Walton) Shawn Kemp (Cherokee) Terrance Shannon (Mary Person) Kammeon Holsey (Hancock Central)
By thefrawlster
February 26, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
i agree that dequan should be on the list, but the reason you dont see wheeler players on the list is because it is a collective effort with all 5 starters averaging double digits, unlike a lot of teams who rely on one person to score 25 points a game