Although he's just a sophomore, Jaylen Beckham (#23 in photo) is widely regarded as one of the top players in the state. The 6'0 guard was a big boost off the bench for the Knights of Lexington Catholic and helped lead them to the elite 8 of the Sweet 16 state tournament this past season. On the way there he helped his team knock off perennial power, and state favorite, Scott County 68-67 in the 11th region championship, in a game in which he made big play after big play. As a freshman Beckham averaged 11 ppg, but was more known for his on the ball defensive pressure and outstanding rebounding for his size. Beckham is considered to be one of the top 50 players returning this season, according to maxpreps.com's Fab 50 frosh list. I recently had the chance to catch up with Jaylen for a Q & A segment and here is what he had to say:
Q: What areas of your game have you been trying to improve in the offseason?
A: I've definetly been working on my jumper.
Q: Where do you feel you've improved the most since the end of last season?
A: I've been working on being more vocal and becoming a leader on the court because that's what a point guard is on the court.
Q: What was it like to defeat Scott Co this past season in the 11th region finals and how has that helped motivate you for this coming season?
A: It felt amazing knocking off the number 1 team in the state, knowing that most people didn't think we could pull it off. It will motivate us again knowing that everyone is against us.
Q: What do you and your team need to do this season to be successful against the other top teams around the state?
A: Just play as a team and play defense.
Q: What are your expectations for yourself and your team this coming season?
A: My expectations for myself is to make the All-City Team. For my team, I want us to win the King of the Bluegrass, 11th Region, and State.
Q: Which schools are currently showing interest in you?
A: Arizona, Alabama, Ohio St. , Oklahoma St. , Florida, Depaul, Washington, and several others.
Q: What qualities do you feel you bring to your team both on and off the court?
A: Leadership and whatever my coach needs me to do.
Q: Lastly, many consider you to be one of the top prospects in the state for the c/o 2012 and nationally as well. What's your take on that and what do you need to do to keep separating yourself from others?
A: I mean it's pretty nice, but I just have to keep working out hard and keep working hard in the classroom.
Notes:
- Very rarely does a freshman see the type of minutes he saw this past season at a program like Lexcath. I expect Jaylen to be the next star there and it wouldn't surprise me if he passes up Vee Sanford and ends up better than him. He's that talented.
- One of his biggest strengths is his quickness and athleticism with the ball. His speed allows him to get in the lane very quick and it doesn't hurt that the kid is an outstanding ball handler.
- The only thing I'd say JB needs to improve on is getting stronger to help his outside shot.
- If you haven't seen him play, you're truly missing out. Lexcath will play their tough 11th region schedule, but a few big events that you can catch him in this season are the King of the Bluegrass (Dec 17-22) , Marshall Co Hoopfest (Dec. 5th v Warren Central), and Lexcath's annual Republic Bank Classic. Another game that I have circled on the calender is their February 2nd matchup with GRC @ GRC.
- Lastly, I'd like to thank Jaylen for his time and wish him and his team good luck this coming season.
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