James Mathis Making Impact
James Mathis, a 6-4, 190 pound small forward from St. Benedict's Prep in Newark, N.J., was a big cog in the Gray Bees' recent victory over Our Savior of the New American School in Newark.
Mathis is an opportunistic offensive player who can score both inside and out, and he seems to have a nose for the basketball. He can slash to the hole hard, scrap around the basket for loose change and knock down the occasional spot-up jumper.
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"For a kid who had played a total of two or three varsity games coming into this year, Mathis has been great for us," said St. Benedict's Head Coach Danny Hurley. "He guards the other team's perimeter guy, and offensively is solid.
"Niagara got a real steal with him," Hurley concluded.
Mathis signed early with the Purple Eagles, and his play on Saturday and at the Slam Dunk to the Beach the previous week confirm what Hurley said: Niagara got itself a good one in Mathis.
Mathis is the Gray Bees' second leading scorer this season, and he is hoping to lead St. Benedict's to a New Jersey Prep A title this winter.
The Insiders Report/Rivalshoops.com will keep you posted on his progress throughout the season, so stay tuned.