Illyana James
Illyana James
About Illyana
Expert Analysis
Byron Xerxes Livsey | Prep Girls Hoops Scout
James continues to be an interesting prospect, and with her playing up, you’re aware that mistakes are going to happen. What stands out is that she never seems to show any doubt in herself once the ball is tipped or after making a mistake. Whether that’s the strong coaching around her or something internal, James has the attitude and mindset to become a force in this state. All of the physical attributes are there, and so is the continued growth of her overall skill set as a stretch four and wing. Give it time, and she’ll continue to rack up Division I offers.
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Read EvaluationByron Xerxes Livsey | Prep Girls Hoops Scout
James is a kid that must be seen in person to really understand how effective she is, and how strong of a prospect she can be over time. Right now, her athleticism, activity level, and motor are what allow her to impact the game on both ends. She can change possessions defensively, get out in transition, and use her physical tools to make plays that not every player in her class can make. As she continues to go against players with similar size, length, and athleticism, her game will be forced to open up even more. Once the skillset catches up with that, you’re looking at a top tier player in her class, let alone the state.
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Read EvaluationByron Xerxes Livsey | Prep Girls Hoops Scout
James has been a name brought up in plenty of rooms over the past season, even before she played her first high school game. Every program values a player with the frame and still plenty of room to grow, both physically and skill wise. She gets a lot done with her energy alone, and that shows every time she steps on the floor. As the details continue to sharpen, she is the type of kid who could bring in some strong offers over the next year or two.
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Read EvaluationAngie Saiter | Prep Girls Hoops Scout
James’ ceiling is high! You are looking at a double- double right here- she understands the game, where to be defensively, intimidating with her blocks, and it’s scary to think she’s only a freshman! She plays longer than 6’0!
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Read EvaluationByron Xerxes Livsey | Prep Girls Hoops Scout
From a physical and athletic standpoint, James has that needle mover, and it’s a strong foundation to continue building her skillset on. Offensively, she has the three level ability to be a threat, and the confidence is there as well. There are definitely flashes of a strong playmaker in her game too. She’ll always be able to hang her hat on the defensive end of the floor. She’s long, active, and trusts her instincts a majority of the time.
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Read EvaluationByron Xerxes Livsey | Prep Girls Hoops Scout
All the physical attributes are there… and if she isn’t done growing, both in strength and height-wise, then Taft has a special talent on their hands. James skillset is solid from all levels, but there’s a high level of confidence, especially in the midrange. She isn’t afraid to rise and shoot, or fake and finish at the rim. But defensively is where she’s going to continue to make her mark, as the offensive side fills out. At this point, all things point to a D1 prospect.
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Read EvaluationJim Dabbelt | Prep Girls Hoops Scout
Illyana has good length which allows her to get on the boards and rebound on both sides. Athletic and can get above for the offensive boards. Can use her wingspan to disrupt the passing lanes. Good future prospect!
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