Alabama Basketball 2017 Recruiting: John Petty Breakdown

In the second part of our weekly series breaking down Alabama basketball’s 2017 recruiting class, we will be taking a look at Mr. Basketball, John Petty, out of Huntsville, Ala.

In the second part of our weekly series, we will be taking a look at Mr. Basketball, John Petty, out of Huntsville, Ala.

Petty is the second five star in Avery Johnson’s stellar 2017 Alabama basketball recruiting class. Like many of the 2017 class, Petty has the type of talent to elevate a program to the next level.

So without further adieu, let’s take an in-depth look at what John Petty will likely bring to the Crimson Tide.

John Petty, SG, No. 25 overall player in ESPN 100, Huntsville, Ala.

Strengths:

Like Sexton, John Petty has the ability to contribute right off the bat in Tuscaloosa. At 6-foot-5, the Huntsville native possesses excellent size and length for a shooting guard. Along with his size, Petty is also an explosive jumper allowing him to play above the rim. This athleticism also allows him to be an excellent defender at SG as his quick feet and long arms cause many guards problems. At the college level, Petty will likely be able to guard point guards, shooting guards and even small forwards in some situations.

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Along with his athleticism, Petty has a solid stroke from 3-point range. While Petty is a better set shooter than anything, he has shown the ability to put the ball on the floor and score with pull-up jumpers. Petty is also a surprisingly good slasher and finishes at the rim well. Petty is also a willing passer as he usually makes the right decisions with ball and rarely forces shots.

Weaknesses:

While Petty has the ideal height and length to be an elite SG at the college level, he does need to improve his strength. With a slender frame, Petty will need to bulk up to avoid being pushed around at the next level. Petty also needs to become a more consistent shooter because while his form is fine, he tends to be a bit streaky as a shooter.

Another area in which Petty needs to improve is his ball-handling. He has a bit of a high handle, which could lead to trouble at the next level.

Projection:

John Petty will be a key contributor in his first year in Tuscaloosa. Like Collin Sexton, Petty has the talent to be a one and done. However, I think he will be in Tuscaloosa for at least two seasons as he will need time to develop his body for the NBA.

Next: Alabama football lands 5 All-Americans

Petty may not be a starter for the Tide next season as it’s difficult to see him taking Dazon Ingram’s spot. But, he will be an important player for Alabama basketball next season and will be one of their best players.

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