Darius Days entered the 2017-18 campaign as one of
the most underappreciated guard/forwards in the reputable SIAA conference.
Now, after proving himself before some of the nation's most talent-rich programs, Days may be one of the most underrated players in the country.
Now, after proving himself before some of the nation's most talent-rich programs, Days may be one of the most underrated players in the country.
Blessed with a man-child like build and a scoring
aptitude at all three levels, his ability to barrel to the rim and finish was never in
question.
Becoming more of a defensive presence, knocking down tough shots, and crashing the
boards with urgency has given Days appeal on the national recruiting market.
Against Prolific Prep, paced by
Duke-signee Gary Trent and a horde of highly-touted teammates, Days solidified
his status as a hard-driving forward.
His knack for hustle points and active presence on the offensive glass earned wide notice.
His knack for hustle points and active presence on the offensive glass earned wide notice.
Days scored 35 points, ripped 11 rebounds, and
created matchup difficulties for everyone guarding him. Some liken Days’ unique blend
of strength and vertically explosive style to Shawn Kemp in his prime.
Others envision Days as
a more skilled version of former Syracuse guard/forward Paul Harris, once a
bullish and physically imposing presence. Harris simply overpowered frailer foes during his high school days.
Beyond Days’ 35-point and 11-board showing against
Pro Prep, the 6-foot-8, 218-pound forward scored 35 points and tore
down 10 boards against DeAndre Ayton and Hillcrest Prep (Az.).
Kansas, Virginia Tech, Virginia, and a slew of
others have also offered Days. He has no official visits set up. He would like
to weigh his options following this summer.
“His shot has continued to progress and what Darius
needs to do is continue to understand he can score at all three levels,” said
The Rock head coach Justin Hardin, after a 100-71 thrashing of Mater to win the
A-ROD tournament in Miami in December.
“He can post up at times, he can knock down the
mid-range shots, which is probably his best shot. His 3-point shooting has
improved tremendously as he’s now leading our team in 3-pointers made and
percentage.”