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Kentucky Basketball Recruiting Spotlight: The PJ Washington Edition

By Jared DeRossett

Mar 26, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American forward PJ Washington Jr (25) poses for a photo during the 2017 McDonalds All American Game Portrait Day at Chicago Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American forward PJ Washington Jr (25) poses for a photo during the 2017 McDonalds All American Game Portrait Day at Chicago Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Keentucky Basketball Fans will love PJ Washington

The 6-8, 229 pound power forward from Findlay Prep (HS), is the real deal. Findlay Prep (HS) is an elite high school program. They are known for producing top-notch athletes. Tristan Thompson, Avery Bradley, and even Kentucky Basketball’s own Deandre Liggins are just a few of the names that have passed through the school.

Fun fact for the Big Blue Nation, Washington actually was born in Louisville, KY, so his commitment to Kentucky isn’t a complete shock. Receiving scholarships from four of the five “blue blood” schools (UCLA, Kansas, North Carolina, and Kentucky), Washington is a top prospect, 13th nationally, and 5th at his position.

Washington was recently named Second Team All-USA, further proving that this kid is no joke. Charismatic on and off the court, he will look to provide a locker room presence.

How He’s Going to Help Us Win Number Nine

As a 6-8 power forward, one would say he might be too small to bang with the big boys down low, but man would they be wrong. Washington has a 7-foot-3 wingspan, which will be a huge plus as far as a paint presence goes. This kid has the potential to be an elite shot-blocker, and with players like Anthony Davis and Willie Cauley-Stein coming through Kentucky, Coach Cal will make him a great defender.

In the games that I’ve watched Washington play, his athleticism is good but not eye-popping. But he makes up for it with the ability to finish with contact. Also, the ability to put the ball on the floor. The NBA is transitioning to bigs who can dribble and create their own shots. Washington is a great fit for Cal’s knack of recruiting NBA-ready big men.

What really stands out to me is his shooting touch. The arc and the rotation on his shot is as textbook as it comes. With Quade Green, a five-star floor general, coming in to run the show next year, the pick-and-pop will be something to watch for. His ability to shoot will help space the floor for our guards to attack the rim.

Welcome to The BBN, PJ!

https://twitter.com/pjwashington_25/status/796866346457833472

Next: Big Blue News: Top Stories From Around the Web

There’s no doubt that Washington will be a great player for Kentucky and that fans will absolutely love this kid. Calipari has always been known for recruiting good kids, not just on the court, but off as well. BBN, go follow PJ at the account above and show him some love!

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