News Summary

Montverde Academy’s four-star basketball player, Jayden Hodge, has narrowed his college options to eight schools, showcasing his talent and impressive track record. With averages of 21.1 points and 6.5 rebounds in his junior year, Hodge is a highly coveted prospect. While he has visited Georgetown and Northwestern, he is focused on finding the perfect program. Hodge aims to improve his game and looks forward to making an impactful decision for his future.

Montverde’s Rising Star: Jayden Hodge Narrows College Choices

Montverde, Florida – In the world of high school basketball, few names are buzzing like that of _Jayden Hodge_, a talented four-star senior small forward from Montverde Academy. Standing tall at 6-foot-6, Hodge is making waves not only in his hometown but also across the nation as he narrows down his list of potential colleges to just eight schools.

The Final List

After considering various schools, Hodge has zeroed in on a select few: Georgetown, Mississippi State, Northwestern, Old Dominion, Penn State, Vanderbilt, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), and Virginia. This shortlist indicates that he’s serious about his next steps and aims to find the perfect fit for his basketball and academic future.

A Stellar Track Record

During his junior year at St. Rose High School in Belmar, New Jersey, Hodge was nothing short of spectacular, averaging an impressive 21.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.7 steals, and 2.2 assists per game. His remarkable performance helped lead the Purple Roses to the Non-Public B Tournament Championship Game, although they ultimately fell short to Roselle Catholic on March 14. For stats lovers, it’s worth noting that Hodge is currently ranked as the No. 47 overall player in the country and the No. 20 small forward according to 247Sports.

Official Visits and Impressions

Although Hodge does not have any official visits on the calendar at the moment, he took the time to explore Georgetown and Northwestern during the summer. Both visits left a mark on Hodge, who appreciated Georgetown’s open offensive style and his evolving relationship with Coach Ed Cooley. Northwestern also wowed him with its stunning campus and the strong rapport he formed with Coach Chris Collins.

A Summer to Remember

During the July Live Period, Hodge showcased his skills while playing for the NJ Shoreshots on the Under Armour Association Circuit. There, he averaged 16.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.5 steals, all while shooting a remarkable 55% from the field. Additionally, Hodge expanded his international experience by representing the Belgian national team in the 2024 FIBA U18 World Cup, where he averaged 15.9 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in seven games.

Making the Right Choice

Prior to trimming down his list of colleges, Hodge also received offers from schools such as Seton Hall, Virginia Tech, Rutgers, and TCU, showcasing just how coveted his skills are. Commenting on his decision-making process, Jayden emphasizes that it’s imperative for him to establish a good connection with college coaches and to find a program where he can contribute right off the bat. He has a clear vision for his future, wanting to be part of a _free-flowing offense_ while also focusing on the importance of defensive strategies.

Areas for Improvement

As confident as Hodge is in his abilities, he remains grounded. He is well aware of aspects of his game that need polishing. For instance, he aims to improve his shooting and defensive skills and has drawn inspiration from notable players like Josh Hart and Jayson Tatum. This focus on self-improvement and tactical gameplay points to a young athlete who is not only talented but also committed to becoming the best version of himself.

As Hodge continues this exciting journey through college recruitment, fans and analysts alike are eager to see where this promising basketball star will land. With his combination of skill, size, and IQ, it’s hard not to imagine a bright future ahead!

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