Top Class of 2016 recruits in Utah high school boys basketball

Video: Exclusive Footage of Duke Commit Frank Jackson from CourtCred

A deeper talent pool has helped Utah high school basketball teams raise their game outside the state in recent seasons. No one needs to look farther than Lone Peak or Wasatch Academy for examples of how well Utah teams have done against national competition.

The Class of 2016 features some of the most talented players yet to come out of Utah. Many of these players feel destined to lead their teams to state or region championships before the season is done.


Frank Jackson, Lone Peak (Highland)

Jackson can light up the scoreboard better than just about anyone. The 6-foot-3 guard is an electric playmaker who is comfortable shooting anywhere on the floor. Jackson averaged 26.8 points per game as a junior and led the state in scoring. He is part of a highly touted 2016 recruiting class for defending NCAA champion Duke. 247Sports rates Jackson as the No. 1 player in Utah and No. 14 nationally.

Brendan Bailey, American Fork

Being the son of a former NBA player carries heightened expectations. Bailey has delivered. The 6-7 forward, who is committed to Marquette, has the sort of length and athleticism that makes him a strong perimeter defender. He is also a versatile scorer who can do damage outside and around the basket. Bailey averaged 14.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game during his junior season at American Fork. Don't be surprised if the son of Thurl Bailey makes an even bigger impact as a senior.

Gavin Baxter, Timpview (Provo)

Baxter might be the top player in Class 4A this season. He is a versatile forward who is comfortable playing inside or outside. The 6-6 senior, who is committed to BYU, led Timpview with 15.5 points per game last season. He also led the T-Birds in 3-point shooting. Baxter's length and his ability to face up in the post will make it tough for opposing defenses to deal with him all season long.

Koby McEwen, Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant)

McEwen is a smart point guard. The Toronto native proved last season he can burn offenses with his shooting and passing even while playing a national schedule. McEwen averaged 18.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game as a junior and helped the Tigers post a 17-9 record in their first season as an independent. The 6-3 guard committed to Utah State over Wake Forest, Baylor and Mississippi.

Yoeli Childs, Bingham (South Jordan)

Dealing with Childs around the basket is a chore for any team. The 6-7 forward dominates the glass with ease. He averaged 16.4 points and 10.7 rebounds per game as a junior and is a tough player who runs the floor well. He has the skills and motor to help the Miners challenge for a Class 5A title this season. Childs has committed to play for BYU and will join the Cougars in the 2016-17 season.

John Coon covers Utah high school sports for MaxPreps. You can contact him at john_coon@hotmail.com and follow him on Twitter @johncoonsports