Jalen Hood-Schifino: Analysis on 4-star combo guard committed to Indiana
Jalen Hood-Schifino is the nation’s No. 27 player in the 2022 class and rated four-stars by On3. The 6 foot 5, 210-pound guard out of Monteverde Academy. Hood-Schifino chose Indiana over Oregon, Clemson, Pittsburgh, and Arizona State.
Here’s what the Hoosiers can expect from Hood-Schifino
Ball Handling and Decision Making: As a combo guard, Hood-Schifino can bring the ball up the court as well as be ready to catch and shoot. Hood-Schifino has the ability to play both the one and two positions successfully at the college level. He has the ability to breakdown his defenders on the dribble and get to the lane for a finish with either hand. This is going to be important in the Big Ten, a league known for its long and lengthy defenders. Hood-Schifino is also a facilitator on the offensive end, able to find open teammates.
Pull Up Shooter: As a point guard, Hood-Schifino’s pull up jumper is extremely efficient. As a shooting guard, his same efficiency helps him get the ball off on a pass from a teammate and hit it in stride, contested or not. His knockdown ability, whether in the middle of the game or in clutch moments, allows Hood-Schifino to shoot with the confidence that he possesses.
Non-stop Motor: Hood-Schifino will have success at any level he plays due to his ability to go, go, go. Whether he is the main ball handler or sitting on the wing at the two spot, Hood-Schifino continuously moves around the court to get open. Hood-Schifino will keep the ball moving and get the best opportunity for his teammates. On defense, this motor allows him to be a pest to ball handlers. He often gets in the passing lanes. A guy who is always willing to push the pace and go head first for his team.
NBA Comparison
Darius Garland: Both are bigger guards that can finish around the rim with either hand. Both guards are three level scorers and have a variety of tricks to get their shot off. They both have a surprising leaping ability, and use their athleticism for crafty finishes.
Fit at Indiana
Newly appointed head coach Mike Woodson got a steal in Hood-Schifino. When Hood-Schifino arrives as a freshman, there will be many times where Woodson will rely on the freshman for big shots down the stretch. With the exit of soon to be senior point guard Xavier Johnson, Hood-Schifino will be able to take over and lead the Hoosiers back to the NCAA Tournament.