In the Big Time Las Vegas Invitational J Sizzle 16U took on one of AAU's premier teams, Strive For Greatness (SFG) led by Bryce James and Kiyan Carmelo Anthony, sons of Lebron James and Carmelo Anthony. It was one of the best games played in Vegas no matter the age bracket. Neither son of future Hall of Famer parents disappointed fans which was no surprise.
The J Sizzle squad, however, had a surprise and it came in the form of the smallest player on the court...Jalyn Patterson. At this juncture, Patterson's name should not be a surprise nationally. Patterson has played in one of the toughest prep high school leagues in the country since the age of 13. His experience playing against older and stronger players was evident by the poise displayed against Bryce James and SFG. The physicality was not a problem.
Patterson gets buckets and makes players better. He got to the rack, absorbed contact and finished around taller players. When he was not driving he was knocking down three-pointers and the mid-range shot which is a forgotten art. He was a great compliment to ESPN's top 30 player Jayden Moore and helped keep the game within striking distance for the win.
Jalyn Patterson's best games are ahead of him. From observing his parents, who are above average height, one could deduce he is set to undergo a major physical transformation. Patterson already is a very good basketball player. When you add size to the equation, he will be a marquee player nationally. Patterson already holds division one offers from Bethune Cookman, Tulsa, and UNC Charlotte. Here is the full game recap vs SFG!