By Christian Mordi - @mordi_thecomeup on Twitter / @thecomeupradio on IG
Player: Justin Minaya
Team: Old Tappan
Stats: 17.3 points per game
What to expect: It’s been awhile since there has been a bit of excitement around Old Tappan basketball. Thankfully, Justin Minaya has inspired the team and it’s diehard fan base.
The talented senior burst on the team after a sensational season last year. In his junior year, Minaya averaged 17.3 points per game. What may fly under the radar to many surface level fans is just how valuable he is to the team. He averaged over 25% of the team’s total offense last year. His usage rate on possessions per game is much higher.
In regards to skills, Minaya is one of the most dynamic players in the Garden State. He can efficiently run and offense and is creative in transition. Due to a strong summer, Minaya has nabbed the attention of numerous division one schools.
Minaya surely faced countless double teams and box and one schemes last year. As Old Tappan didn’t lose much in regards to their starting lineup, natural player progression leans towards his teammates getting better and punishing teams for not guarding them effectively.
This year should be a huge year for Minaya and Old Tappan basketball. With the right out of conference schedule, Minaya can really shake up the basketball scene in New Jersey.
Stat to know: Justin Minaya, (son of former Mets GM Omar Minaya) has grabbed the attention of numerous division one coaches due to his stellar play last year. Vermont and Boston University have offered Minaya. Be on the lookout for additional teams to shoot overs his way as the season progresses.
ICYMI: #NJTop25: #24 Old Tappan High School