June 3, 2011
If a college coach has a checklist of what he wants in a power forward, then what would be on that list? Big and strong - must have. Play physical and not shy away from contact - must have. Get rebounds and block shots - must have. Play solid defense - must have. Do the dirty work inside and hustle - must have.
This description could well describe Sacramento Dragon power forward James Hadnot. At 6-foot-6 and 215 pounds, Hadnot was a key varsity member in the Dragon's 27-6 season when they lost in the Northern California playoffs to El Cerrito. This 2013 prospect averaged a respectable 3.6 points and 3.3 rebounds while backing up Santa Clara bound Robert Garrett.
As the No 22 ranked 2013 NCP prospect, Hadnot will be competing for a starting role on the varsity squad this upcoming season. He will be using his drop step to get his defender on his hip and spin off him and finish with either hand. This past year was Hadnot's first year on the varsity squad that will also return key players Aaron Cameron, Erik Kinney, Darius Graham, and De'Von Boyd.
Hadnot compares himself to UCLA Bruin Kevin Love because he likes to rebound, throw outlet passes, and shoot a high percentage. He also likes Cal Bear Leon Powe because he is a power player and is mentally tough. Finally, he likes Syracuse Orangeman Carmelo Anthony because of his perimeter shooting and ability to utilize the step back to create space.
During this summer, Hadnot will be working with his trainer Charles Kidd to improve his hand dexterity, footwork, shooting, and strength. Hadnot says, "Working on my hand dexterity allows me to have good hands; footwork is essential to play at the next level, and you must continue to develop your shot to develop muscle memory."
In addition, Hadnot will be playing for his Oakland Rebels 16U team on the summer circuit. Hadnot says, "Playing with the Oakland Rebels and Sac High - both programs have a reputation of being successful and I must uphold that tradition. I take that reputation and tradition with me into every game. I take that seriously!"
The Oakland Rebels 16U team has July trips to Indiana, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles. These tournaments should showcase his skills and create interest from schools all over the country.
Hadnot has been playing for the Oakland Rebels since 2nd grade. Sacramento High Coach Derek Swafford says, "James strengths are that he is good passer, shooter, and can handle the ball. He can be physical and keep his team in the game. Off the court, he is quiet and reserved. He should become a mid major to a D1 prospect." So far, Hadnot has received inquiries from Cal, Northern Colorado, Portland, Washington State, and Yale while being invited to the Portland elite camp and UOP advance skills camp.
This Dragon is looking for a fast paced program that puts up a lot of shots and is entertaining to watch. He is open to anywhere in the country. He has a 3.00 GPA and wants to major in a pre-law or health science related program.
Hadnot's grandfather, named James Hadnot as well, was a member of the Oakland Oaks in the American Basketball Association (ABA). His grandfather starred at McClymonds before playing at Providence College where he was eventually inducted into the Providence Hall of Fame. His Providence teams included future legendary coaches Lenny Wilkens and John Thompson. Eventually after his ABA playing days, he was a businessman before becoming an assistant coach at Laney College in the 1980's and then an NBA scout with the Sacramento Kings and New Jersey Nets.
Big Game James, a family nickname, strained his Achilles last year prior to the beginning of the season, which was a tough injury that hindered him during the season. Hadnot's individual goals are to continue to improve on what his coaches want him to do in practice and in the games. His team goals for next year are to win the Metro, win the SJS, and get to the State Championship game.
To succeed on the basketball court, a dominant power forward that plays defense, is tough, rebounds, hustles, and blocks shots - must have. To succeed in life, a person that incorporates hard work, motivation, and smarts - must have. A 2013 college basketball program's roster with James Hadnot - must have.
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