Kentucky Basketball Recruiting: Breakdown of UK target Tyrese Maxey

Tyrese Maxey is the latest of Kentucky’s significant recruits that is expected to announce his college decision within the near future.

The 6-3 point guard, currently in the class of 2019, has shown continued interest in reclassifying and joining John Calipari’s now loaded team for the 2018-2019 season. While there is scuttlebutt Maxey may ultimately stay in 2019, he’ll still be a major get in whatever class he’s part of.

A strong connection between Kentucky and Maxey was established immediately after the commitment of Ashton Hagans. Maxey has reportedly shown a desire to play alongside Hagans, if both were to play next season.

While this would inevitably create a logjam at the point guard position with Immanuel Quickley and Quade Green already in the fold, Maxey offers legitimate scoring capability that could prove to be a vital component to next season’s Kentucky team.

Maxey is an exceptional blending of pure God-given talent. His size and length are refined for a player still just 17 years old and is a high level scorer at all three levels. His movements are quick and he is an exceptional athlete that loves to finish above the rim.

The release of his jump shot is rather low, but he is an effective three-point shooter off the dribble. Particularly he is comfortable pulling up with forward momentum, but thanks to his quick release he has proven to be an effective spot up shooter as well.

The ability to shoot from the perimeter opens up Maxey’s ability to put the ball on the floor and attack. His physical frame is long, built and that combined with his speed and quickness make for a proficient slasher from the wings. Maxey is also an excellent ball handler and his IQ is high, so he is able to recognize, react and make smart decisions in the middle of action.

Maxey can be a good compliment to Kentucky’s other point guards due to his proficiency as an aggressive scorer. This means where he’s most effective is off the ball.

Whether if it is Green, Quickle, or Hagans alongside him, it could work out similarly to the Rajon Rondo and Jrue Holiday pairing in New Orleans. Rondo relieved facilitating duties for the Pelicans and Holiday has had his best NBA season playing in a role where only focuses on attacking as a scorer and defender.

Maxey is one of the more naturally talented point guard prospects of recent memory factoring in his ability to shoot the ball. While there’s no guarantee that he will be playing in 2018, Maxey should be a player for every Kentucky fan keeps their eye on.

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