:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59700899/3231244.0.jpg)
USC basketball will be missing some key players in Jordan McLaughlin, Chimezie Metu, Elijah Stewart, and DeAnthony Melton next season, however they also have some talent returning in Bennie Boatwright, Jonah Matthews, as well as some key freshman in Charles O'Bannon Jr., Jordan Usher, and Victor Uyaelunmo. There’s also plenty of talent coming in the 2018 recruiting class, One name that’s headlining the that Trojans recruiting class is Kevin Porter Jr.
The incoming freshman out of Seattle, Washington has been turning heads this spring. Porter Jr. committed to USC back in July of 2017 and signed his letter of intent on November 21st. He is currently rated as a 5 star shooting guard and ranked 14th nationally, 5th at the shooting guard position, and 1st overall in the state of Washington per Rivals Sports Composite. Porter Jr. gives USC Basketball it’s first Rivals five star since DeMar Derozan back in 2008.
Porter Jr. has really turned heads and grabbed attention in scrimmages, social media, and All-Star games. Back in April at the Nike Hoop Summit in Portland, Oregon Porter Jr. participated in a scrimmage against USA Junior National Team select and ended up stealing the show in front of Trailblazers point guard and NBA All-Star Damian Lillard. That wasn’t the end of things right there, That same month Kevin Porter Jr. was named co-player of the year at the Allen Iverson Roundball Classic, the same event that incoming USC freshman point guard Elijah Weaver participated in and was named MVP in. Despite averaging 27 points and 14 points at Rainer Beach High School during his senior season, He was not invited to the high profile high school all-star games such as the Jordan Brand Classic or McDonald’s All-American Game.
How will Porter Jr fit into the Trojans and what will he bring to USC? There’s no doubt that Andy Enfield will utilize the incoming Freshman right away. At 6’5, 175 lb, Porter Jr brings good size and athleticism at the two spot. USC has another former 5 star in Charles O’Bannon Jr, who will likely see a good amount of playing time as well as Jonah Matthews, who will be returning for his Junior season with the Trojans. There’s a good chance Porter Jr. could see time at the small forward position as well. Overall we should see a good amount of Kevin Porter Jr. next season, adding to a talented Trojans team.