Cliff Alexander

McDonald’s All-American Recap: Alexander barely participated in Tuesday’s practice due to a wrist contusion he suffered on Monday. I didn’t glean much—anything—from watching him.

McDonald’s All-American Preview:

Alexander is the most physical and explosive big man in the country. Equipped with punishing strength and fluid mobility, he  operates from the mid to low post and looks to destroy opponents. Facing up, he has a quick first step to get to the rim. And he is a terror on the offensive and defensive glass. His combination of size, athleticism and natural physicality is reminiscent of a young Amar’e Stoudemire.

Alexander is a terrific screener, with quick feet to precisely roll and strong hands to catch on the way to the basket. His athleticism and junkyard dog mentality allow him to impose his will on the boards, too. The next step offensively is to build a back to the basket repertoire. Alexander has occasionally flashed a hook shot, but he needs to show consistency.

Defensively, Alexander has made huge strides over the past year. At the HoopHall Classic in January, he had games of 30 points/26 rebounds/14 blocks, and 30 points/12 rebounds/5 blocks, doing so against two good teams (King and Montverde). Alexander has showcased excellent shot blocking prowess, especially guarding his man 1-on-1.

He dominates the paint on both ends, and has shown he can be a good free throw shooter (8-8 vs. Montverde). NBA-ready physique with tantalizing athleticism and energy. In my opinion, his commitment to defense gives him a slight edge on AAU teammate Jahlil Okafor as the best player in the country.

Nike Peach Jam 2013 (North Augusta, SC): Alexander is the biggest “punisher” in the Class of 2014. He can operate from the mid to low post, and has a tantalizing drop step in the post. His next-level strength and physicality makes him a beast on the glass. He is a walking double-double. Alexander plays above the rim, and is always productive when he steps on the court. He can post up, face up to 15 feet, or crash the boards. He can score, and then score again and again. On top of that, he’s terrific at rolling off the screen—he sets powerful, wide screens, and rolls hard to the rim, where he dunks without hesitation. He is also an underrated interior passer. He has good vision, and is willing to drop-off it off. Can play either high or low.

Alexander is a notch above his peers, both physically and in terms of skill set. He gives AAU teammate Jahlil Okafor a run for the title of best big man (and maybe player) in the country.