The Arizona’s 2017 High School class has the potential to be one of the most elite classes that Arizona has had in many years. One of the most elite prospects of the 2017 class that I have had the chance to view this weekend is 6-fot-1, 170-pound rising sophomore point guard prospect Alex Barcello.
Barcello, who plays with the Compton Magic’s Team Bayless (CA), was one of the best point guards that I watched all day. He displayed solid lift and a quick release on his jumper, which he can hit with regularity out to the college 3-point line - regardless if a hand is in his face or not. Barcello was also a very heady driver of the basketball from 15 feet and in. He used a variety of smart spins and shifty moves to get around his defenders, and scored the ball or drew a foul, in which he converted at a high rate from the free-throw line.
Barcello was also a very active defender all game long - moving his feet quickly laterally, using his hands well, and pestered the Arizona Magic U16 Elite guards all game long. He caused multiple turnovers on many different possessions.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Barcello’s game is his confidence and his ability to score the basketball and lead his team in a clutch setting. He consistently knocked down big after big jumpers and drives, and eventually, hit the game winning shot as time expired. I was overall very impressed with Barcello and I am very excited to track his progress for the rest of his high school career at Corona (Tempe) Del Sol High School.
Alex currently holds an offer from Grand Canyon University, and has interest from such schools as Arizona State, West Virginia, California-Berkley and Saint Mary’s, with many others tracking him during the month of July.
