May 19, 2011
The Newark Memorial Cougars were unable to make as deep a playoff run this past season when compared to their state title run in 2010. But the next three years look really promising at the point guard position. As a 2014 freshman point guard, Joey Frenchwood was a key starter and played with the poise that should keep the Cougar backcourt stable for the next few years.
The 5-foot-11 and 155 pound point guard only averaged 5 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists but his development and potential during his freshman year will pay off in spades during his next few years. Frenchwood helped the Cougars to a 22-7 record and a chance to play in the postseason. He can run 4.70 seconds in the 40-yard dash, bench press 160 pounds, squat 320 pounds, and has a vertical of 35 inches.
Newark Memorial Coach Craig Ashmore comments about Frenchwood's freshman campaign, "Joey handled his duties with great poise and had the ability to look very comfortable on the floor. His first game was against Oakland High School and we had our starting point guard out with a broken hand. Joey had 8 assists 9 points and only two turnovers. He also impressed me with his work ethic."
Frenchwood models his game after UCLA Bruin Russell Westbrook. Frenchwood has the potential to grow into a larger point guard who is also explosive similar to Westbrook. Frenchwood considers his ball handling and perimeter shots to be his strengths.
Ashmore adds, "In my 22 years at Newark, we have been lucky to have a hand full of freshman play varsity, but Joey handled the long hours of practice and demands of a major program like a veteran. Joey is a great player! I expect Joey to become more of an offensive threat. He will need to get to the hole and increase his scoring. I am excited to watch his development in the next three years. Joey does not remind me of any players of the past, but I think he has a chance to be one of the best guards we ever had."
During the offseason, Frenchwood plans on lifting weights and playing for his Oakland Rebels team. He hopes his efforts will pay off in his individual numbers but more importantly in Newark Memorial's playoff longevity.
Oakland Rebels Coach Raymond Young says about Frenchwood, "Joey has a great work ethic. Joey shoots the three ball well and has a strong ball handling skill set. He plays with a lot of confidence and is a competitor on the court. Joey can play either guard spot and he can make a play for himself or his teammates. Joey leads by example through his work ethic as he also carries a 3.0 GPA. In the class of 2014, look for Joey to be one of the top available point guards on the west coast."
If both Frenchwood's high school and AAU coaches are correct about his work ethic and potential, more people will be speaking about Frenchwood. The fans in Newark will not be asking "Parlez-vous français?" or "do you speak French?" Instead, they will be asking "Parlez-vous Frenchwood?" or "do you speak Frenchwood?" as will the college coaches.
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