Uncovering hidden gems in the offseason used to be a common occurrence in basketball recruiting. It's gotten more rare in recent years--at least among upper-classmen prospects, but the elimination of the April evaluation period for college coaches could make the practice more common again.

Memphis Melrose point guard Chris Jones is a case in point. Jones (5-10, 160 pounds) has been one of the hottest names of the spring after several strong tournament performances, highlighted by leading a star-studded field of talent at the Bob Gibbons Memorial Day tournament in scoring.

He was on plenty of 'watch-lists' prior to that, but since then his phone has been blowing up with college coaches wanting tapes, transcripts and/or camp visits.

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