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Ja'Quan Newton
Freshman - G - 6'1 185 - Philadelphia, Pa (Neumann-Goretti HS)
Consensus 4 star prospect chose the 'Canes over schools like UCLA, Syracuse, and Oregon.
58th ranked player overall in ESPN's top 100. Averaged 21.3 pg his senior season and led his H.S. to the Catholic League Championship.
Averaged 13.5 ppg in 4 games on UM's summer trip to Spain, 3rd best on the team.
Summary: Fearless and relentless competitor should be an instant part of the Hurricanes rotation. Loves taking the ball to the cup, but also has a wide array of pull-ups and medium range shots in his arsenal. Because of how intense he is, should develop into a pretty good on ball defender in time. My biggest concern for Newton is that his biggest strength will be a weakness, at least in the beginning of his college career. Against the faster/elite athletes he will will face in the Atlantic Coast Conference, over dribbling and daring dives to the hoop often lead to turnovers, especially charges. As he learns the speed of major college hoops he will have to be more selective in his takes. Also comes in advertised as a combo guard. Will be interesting to see how he handles PG duties when/if he is called upon to do so. Overall I love the passion and energy he brings to the game. Should have a nice freshman season overall and could be future star in the program.
Stay tuned for more player profiles as we count down to tip off.