With so many unsigned senior prospects still available in the state, make room for Thunderbird High School's talented 6-foot-5, 180-pound senior Paris Strozier. While I had not personally seen Strozier before, this young man emerged in last weekend's AZ All-Star Shootout as a definite college prospect that junior college and smaller college programs need to take a hard look immediately.
Strozier played for a Thunderbird program that had a strong season in the 4A Division this past season, as the program compiled an impressive 22-7 overall record on the season, and a 9-1 record in the Skyline Region. Thunderbird is led by second-year Head Coach Jesus Flores. Flores has put together a strong program @ Thunderbird, after the departure of longtime successful coach Buddy Rake just last season. Strozier definitely helped the cause this season for a very talented team, as he averaged good numbers - 13.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per/game.
Strozier has the potential to do much more over time, as he matures and continues to develop as a player. He has an excellent body combined with very good size as a 2/3 performer that is also capable of handling the basketball from the lead guard position, as needed. He has a very good handle of the basketball and is an overall fundamentally sound prospect. He can score at all (3) levels and has a good looking perimeter shooting stroke. He has an ability to make shots with range, and also has a good mid-range game as well, which he showed off this weekend. This young man is also an excellent athlete with strong bounce - able to slash and finish in the half-court set or in transition.
Strozier emerged in this weekend's all-star game as one prospect that I want to see much more of over time, as I believe, that with continued hard work on his craft that he will blossom nicely as a player over time. Amidst top-rated high school talent last weekend, Strozier played with a high level of confidence as well and looked impressive in the game.
I caught up with Strozier after the game and he advised me that his college recruitment is beginning to pick up through the help of Coach Flores. He is currently receiving strong interest from Justice College and several other smaller schools. This is definitely one prospect that college programs need to pursue this spring, as he has a high ceiling.
I will continue to follow Strozier's college recruitment this spring, as he is one of the top unsigned prospects currently available in the 2024 Class.
